SFLHCC's Health Forum Featuring UHealth’s Dr. Juan Umaña

The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC) recently hosted its Health Forum: Intimate Lunch and Learn, presented by the Hispanic Women's Society Network, bringing together business and community leaders for an informative conversation focused on heart and aortic health, prevention, and advances in cardiovascular care.

The forum featured Dr. Juan Umaña, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery, who shared his expertise and provided attendees with valuable insight into cardiovascular health, prevention, treatment options, and innovations helping improve patient care.

Held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Coral Gables, the intimate setting provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn directly from a leading medical expert while engaging in meaningful conversations about the importance of proactive heart health.

The event was presented by UHealth – University of Miami Health System. Through programs such as the Health Forum, SFLHCC continues its commitment to connecting South Florida’s business community with trusted experts, educational resources, and conversations that promote healthier individuals, workplaces, and communities. This offered attendees valuable insight into cardiovascular health, prevention, treatment options, and innovations improving.

SFLHCC President Moderates Disaster Management Panel at 28th Inter-American Conference of Mayors

SFLHCC President & CEO Liliam M. Lopez, Dr. (h.c.), had the honor of moderating the panel “Disaster Management: New Age Solutions” during the 28th Inter-American Conference of Mayors and Local Authorities, organized by the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners’ International Trade Consortium.

The panel brought together distinguished leaders in public safety, emergency management, and local government, including Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz; Pete Gomez, Director of Miami-Dade County Emergency Management; Raied Jadallah, Chief of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue; Gen. Milton Alexis M. López of the Fire Rescue Department of Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic; and Ivelisse Mercedes Báez of La Romana Province, Dominican Republic.

Moderated by President Lopez, the discussion explored disaster preparedness, emergency response, intergovernmental collaboration, and innovative solutions for strengthening community resilience. The conversation also highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices among leaders throughout Miami-Dade County, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

SFLHCC was proud to be represented at this important international forum and to contribute to conversations focused on creating safer, better-prepared, and more resilient communities.

SFLHCC President Attends Buena Vista Social Club Opening Night at the Arsht Center

SFLHCC President & CEO Liliam M. Lopez, Dr. (h.c.), attended the red-carpet opening night of Buena Vista Social Club at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. As a member of the Arsht Center’s Board of Directors, President Lopez was honored to experience a production celebrating the richness of Cuban music, culture, and storytelling.

Inspired by the legendary Buena Vista Social Club album, the acclaimed musical transports audiences to Havana through unforgettable music and the stories of the artists behind it. The production celebrates Cuba’s musical heritage while highlighting the power of music to connect cultures and generations.

Pictured with President Lopez were legendary Cuban pianist, bandleader, composer, and arranger Chucho Valdés, as well as Nelson Albareda, a prominent music and entertainment executive and producer.

For President Lopez, the evening was a meaningful celebration of Cuban culture and its deep connection to the South Florida community, a performance filled with “talent, history, and heart.”

SFLHCC President Attends Latino Leaders Index 500 Miami Reception

SFLHCC President & CEO Liliam M. Lopez attended the Latino Leaders Index 500 Powered by BMO – Miami Reception on October 1, 2026.

The special reception brought together influential Latino leaders from across the community to celebrate leadership, achievement, and the growing impact of Latinos across business and society. President Lopez was pleased to join fellow leaders for an evening of meaningful connections and recognition while representing the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

SFLHCC congratulates Latino Leaders and BMO for bringing together an outstanding group of leaders and highlighting the contributions of the Latino community.

 Notice of an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration for the state of Florida

SFLHCC Foundation Sponsors FIU’s Annual Pig Roast

The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation (SFLHCC Foundation) was proud to sponsor and participate in Florida International University’s Pig Roast Series, an annual tradition bringing together students, alumni, families, faculty, staff, and community partners for an afternoon of food, friendly competition, and Panther pride. The 2026 event featured more than 80 participating teams, with net proceeds supporting FIU Athletics through the FIU Foundation. Florida International University

SFLHCC President & CEO Liliam M. Lopez also serves on the FIU President’s Council, the university’s premier community relations board composed of business and civic leaders who serve as ambassadors and advocates for FIU. The Council works to connect the business community with the university, build community partnerships, support strategic fundraising, and advance initiatives that benefit FIU and its students.

The President’s Council has a strong history of supporting student success. Its fundraising has benefited initiatives including first-generation scholarships, programs assisting students facing homelessness, the Student Food Pantry, and the President’s Council Excellence Fund, which helps support initiatives focused on student achievement and provides assistance to students facing challenges on their path to graduation.

Florida International University connects the business community with the university, builds community partnerships, supports strategic fundraising, and advances through its sponsorship and Lily's continued involvement with FIU. The SFLHCC Foundation is proud to support opportunities that strengthen education, student success, and the connection between South Florida’s business and academic communities.

SFLHCC President Liliam M. Lopez to Receieve a Maestro Award

The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that President & CEO Liliam M. Lopez will be honored with a prestigious Maestro Award presented by Latino Leaders Magazine. Considered the publication's highest recognition for lifetime achievers, the Maestro Awards celebrate distinguished Latino leaders whose professional accomplishments, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on their communities.

This distinguished recognition reflects Lily's decades of commitment to advancing Hispanic businesses, fostering leadership, and creating opportunities throughout South Florida and beyond.

About the Maestro Awards

The Maestro Awards, now also known as The Maestros, are presented by Latino Leaders Magazine to recognize accomplished Latino leaders whose careers and service have made a meaningful impact on their professions and communities. Latino Leaders describes the Maestro recognition as its highest recognition for lifetime achievers.

The program recognizes leaders from a wide range of fields, including business, education, civil service, medicine, entrepreneurship, and community service. Honorees are selected through a nomination and committee-selection process, rather than the award simply being an open participation recognition

Click here for more information

Member Spotlight Feature

IKEA Miami Invites Families to a Gaming Event



SFLHCC is excited to spotlight chamber member IKEA Miami and its upcoming Gaming Event, taking place October 10 and 11.

Families are invited to visit IKEA Miami for two days of gaming-themed activities celebrating the launch of a new collection arriving this October. Registered IKEA Family members will also have the opportunity to receive a FREE HALO Spartan Keychain, while supplies last. Registration is required, and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

We encourage our members and their families to stop by, enjoy the activities, and support fellow SFLHCC member IKEA Miami!

SFLHCC Sunshine Awards Nominations Now Open

NOMINATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026

Celebrating Excellence • Leadership • Community Impact

The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC) Sunshine Awards recognize outstanding companies and organizations that “shine” through excellence, leadership, innovation, community involvement, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Nominees should demonstrate excellence in their respective fields and a positive impact on South Florida’s business and broader community.

Eligibility: The nominated company or organization must be an SFLHCC member in good standing. Nominees need not be Hispanic-owned businesses.

Career Source available benefits

Member Spotlight Feature

SFLHCC Upcoming Events

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Aranto Productions proudly presents the Miami debut of Barcelona Guitar Trio & Dance on Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 4:00 PM at the Adrienne Arsht Center.

This internationally acclaimed ensemble unites the extraordinary artistry of guitarists Alí Arango, Xavier Coll, and Luis Robisco, alongside acclaimed flamenco dancers José Manuel Álvarez and Carolina Morgado, with percussionist Lucas Balbo, in a breathtaking tribute to the legendary Paco de Lucía. Audiences will also experience inspired works by Chick Corea, Manuel de Falla, and Federico García Lorca in an unforgettable celebration of Spanish music, flamenco, and culture.

Presented by Aranto Productions, this special performance marks the company’s continued commitment to bringing world-class international artists to American audiences.

Learn more and purchase tickets:

https://www.arshtcenter.org/tickets/2026-2027/barcelona-guitar-trio-dance/barcelona-guitar-trio-dance/#buyTickets

Aranto Productions Brings the Passion of Spain to Miami

THE WOMEN'S FUND OF MIAMI-DADE IN-PERSON / RAISE THE BAR 2026

Date & Location: Thursday, October 8, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Description: Serious Fun for a Serious Cause! The networking event features an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and more. Join the extended legal community and supporters of your Women's Fund's Freedom From Violence Pillar for one of our signature annual events. The esteemed judiciary, members of the bar, related business professionals, elected officials and survivor leaders will gather in support of women and girls in Miami-Dade. 

There is a great tradition among members of the legal field in Miami, who gather to support the mission of The Women's Fund while taking the opportunity to connect with peers and network over drinks. Hence the name, Raise the Bar. Since its inception, funds raised from Raise the Bar have supported Advocacy and Funding & Grantee Partners initiatives that work with survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. 

Link to get registered: RSVP: https://womensfundmiami.org/raise-the-bar/  

 Donations are always welcome: https://womensfundmiami.org/donate/

A "Business Minute with Lily Lopez" Featuring Steven Meiner, Mayor of Miami Beach

A "Business Minute with Lily Lopez" Featuring US Senator Rick Scott (FL)