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Dear NAHCC members, partners, and friends:
On October 15, we came together for a very special evening as we celebrated the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 22nd Annual Excellence in Business & Community Awards at Belmont University.
For more than two decades, these awards have recognized the entrepreneurs, business and community leaders, artists, organizations, and partners whose leadership, service, creativity, and ganas help make Nashville stronger.
As I shared that evening, behind every statistic about the growth and contributions of our community is a person — an entrepreneur taking a risk, a worker building our city, an artist sharing a story, a student preparing for the future, or a business creating jobs and opportunity.
Those are the people and stories we celebrated.
We are proud to share some of the highlights from this year’s celebration and introduce our 2026 Excellence in Business & Community Award recipients.
With gratitude,
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: 615-216-5737
Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber
of Commerce
October 30, 2026
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Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) Announces 22nd Annual Business & Community Excellence Award Recipients
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Sold-out 22nd annual celebration at Belmont University recognized entrepreneurship, leadership, culture, service and community impact across Nashville and Middle Tennessee
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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Excellence in Business & Community Awards, presented October 15 during a sold-out celebration at the Janet Ayers Conference Center at Belmont University.
Now in its 22nd year, the annual awards recognize entrepreneurs, businesses, professionals, artists, organizations and community partners whose leadership and contributions help strengthen Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
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The celebration also marked the closing day of Hispanic Heritage Month and highlighted not only culture and heritage, but the growing contributions of Hispanic entrepreneurs, workers, professionals, artists, students and families.
“The numbers tell an important story. But behind every number is a person—an entrepreneur taking a risk, a worker building our city, an artist sharing a story, a student preparing for the future, and a business creating jobs and opportunity,” said Yuri Cunza, President & CEO of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Cunza told attendees that the evening was ultimately about recognizing the people behind those contributions and the role they continue to play in Nashville and in the larger American story.
| | An Memorable Evening Celebrating Culture, Leadership, Entrepreneurship & Community | | |
The event began with a reception bringing together NAHCC members, corporate and community partners, elected officials, consular representatives, artists, entrepreneurs and community leaders.
The formal program opened with the National Anthem performed by Briana Gatica, followed by a cultural performance by Raíces de Mi Tierra.
In a special video message played during the program, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell recognized NAHCC’s leadership in supporting small businesses, expanding economic opportunity, and elevating Hispanic entrepreneurship across Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
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The program also featured a special video greeting from Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, along with remarks from John-Michael Cortez of GFiber, a valued NAHCC corporate partner, and Metro Councilmember Jacob Kupin (left). Kupin pleasantly surprised guests by delivering his remarks in both English and Spanish—a thoughtful gesture that reflected the inclusive spirit of the evening.
Joyce Searcy, Associate Vice President of Community & Government Affairs at Belmont University, joined NAHCC leadership in welcoming guests to Belmont and recognizing the importance of bringing business, civic, corporate, and community leaders together for the occasion (below).
| | In this special video message, John-Michael Cortez of GFiber joins us in celebrating NAHCC’s 22nd Annual Excellence in Business & Community Awards and the entrepreneurs, leaders, and partners helping strengthen Nashville’s business and community landscape. | | The program featured a vibrant folkloric dance performance by Raíces de Mi Tierra, celebrating heritage and tradition. | | “On behalf of the NAHCC Board of Directors, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the recipients of our 22nd Annual Excellence in Business & Community Awards. Each honoree represents the leadership, entrepreneurship, service, creativity, and ganas that help make Nashville stronger. The economic numbers tell an important story, but behind every number is a person—an entrepreneur taking a risk, a worker building our city, an artist sharing a story, a student preparing for the future, or a business creating jobs and opportunity. These are the people helping shape Nashville today and helping write the next chapter of the American story.”— Yuri Cunza, Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. President & CEO | | NAHCC Foundation Executive Director Loraine Segovia Paz shares a video highlighting the Bridging Narrative Program, conducted with students during Hispanic Heritage Month. | | Left: NAHCC Foundation and NAHCC Board members Brenna Davenport-Leigh and Dalia Garcia assist guests at check-in. Right: A beautiful balloon installation created by NAHCC member Elisan Artistic Balloons welcomes guests to NAHCC’s 22nd Annual Excellence in Business & Community Awards. | | 2026 Business & Community Excellence Award Recipients | |
Celebrating Leadership, Ganas, Legacy & Community
The 2026 award recipients represent a wide range of sectors and contributions—from entrepreneurship, education and journalism to music, arts, culture, public spaces and community development.
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GANAS IN MUSIC AWARD
Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso
Mexican vocalist Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso, from Veracruz, was recognized for talent, discipline and cultural pride, and for a musical journey connecting her roots with jazz and international audiences.
The award was presented in September during her Nashville debut at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music and was celebrated again during the October 15 program.
Presented by Yuri Cunza and NAHCC Board of Directors
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NAHCC BEST HISPANIC FILM AWARD
“Oye, We’re From Here Too”
Presented in connection with the Nashville Film Festival, the award recognized the documentary short “Oye, We’re From Here Too” for its exploration of Latino identity, heritage, belonging and what it means to call the United States home.
Presented to filmmakers Arturo Garibay & James Chaney by Loraine Segovia Paz and Yuri Cunza.
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COMMUNITY PARTNER OF THE YEAR
The Forge Nashville
The Forge Nashville was recognized for meaningful collaboration and for creating space, resources and opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs, makers and community initiatives.
Its work has included creating IndigeNash, an initiative elevating Indigenous culture, voices and art, as well as hosting activities connected to CineTVLatino Nashville and collaborating with NAHCC on programs that bring different communities together.
Presented by past Amigo of the Year awardee Fabian Bedne and NAHCC President & CEO Yuri Cunza to The Forge Nashville Vice Chair John H. Arriola.
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NASHVILLE LATIN MUSIC LEGACY AWARD
Rafael Vazquez
For more than two decades, Rafael Vazquez has contributed to Nashville’s Latin music landscape through performance, mentorship and cultural leadership.
Through San Rafael Band and his continued involvement in the community, Vazquez has helped share Latin music across generations and audiences while also giving his time to mentorship and programs benefiting young people.
Presented to Rafael Vazquez by Sipho Dumasane and Yuri Cunza.
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GANAS IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP & COMMUNITY AWARD
Mari Acuña / HubCity 731
Jackson, Tennessee-based real estate professional and entrepreneur Mari Acuña was recognized for combining professional success with a strong commitment to community.
Through HubCity 731, translation services, community outreach and an active media presence, Acuña helps inform, connect and support Hispanic families and entrepreneurs in West Tennessee and beyond.
Presented to Mari Acuna by Samuel Gil of Regions Bank and Yuri Cunza.
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GANAS IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD
Stellaris International School of Nashville
Stellaris International School of Nashville was recognized for the entrepreneurial vision, perseverance and innovation involved in turning a new educational concept into an institution.
Its approach brings together bilingual education, inquiry-based learning and a global perspective while expanding educational choices for Nashville families.
Presented to founder Erin De Fossee by Magda Beleri of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority and Yuri Cunza.
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GANAS IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD
Laura Yescas / Salon Yescas
Longtime NAHCC member Laura Yescas was recognized for a journey defined by perseverance, sacrifice and determination.
For 13 years, she has continued building Salon Yescas while remaining engaged with the Chamber and community. Her story reflects the true meaning of ganas: believing in a vision, overcoming obstacles and continuing to move forward.
Presented by NAHCC Vice Chair Mikey Corona, Metro Councilmember Jacob Kupin, and Yuri Cunza.
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LEADERSHIP IN MEDIA & COMMUNITY AWARD
Nashville Public Radio (NPR)
NPR was recognized for local journalism that helps tell the full story of Nashville and Middle Tennessee—including the experiences, contributions, challenges and achievements of the region’s Hispanic community.
The organization has also been an active NAHCC member and community partner.
Presented by Loraine Segovia Paz and Yuri Cunza.
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BUSINESS LEADERSHIP OF THE YEAR
Acme Feed & Seed
Longtime NAHCC member and community partner Acme Feed & Seed was recognized for leadership that extends beyond its own business.
The Nashville institution and the Morales family have used their voice to raise awareness about challenges facing independent businesses and to advocate for Nashville’s locally owned business community.
Presented by to TomKats Hospitality founder Tom Morales and COO Lauren Morales by Loraine Segovia Paz and Yuri Cunza.
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LEGACY IN CULTURE & COMMUNITY AWARD
Global Education Center
As it celebrates three decades of service, the Global Education Center was recognized for using music, dance, storytelling, education and cultural traditions to connect artists, schools and communities.
Its work has helped preserve cultural heritage while creating greater understanding among people from different backgrounds.
Presented to GEC Board Member Rick Rodriguez, accepting on behalf of Ellen Gilbert, by Metro Councilmembers Jacob Kupin and Zulfat Suara, and NAHCC President & CEO Yuri Cunza.
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BRIDGES IN ARTS & CULTURE AWARD
Celebrate Nashville
Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, Celebrate Nashville was recognized for creating one of the city’s most enduring multicultural traditions.
Through music, dance, art, food, education and storytelling, the annual celebration brings together dozens of cultural communities and provides a space where Nashville can experience the diversity of the people who call the city home.
Presented by and Loraine Segovia Paz and Yuri Cunza to Cindy Politte, Celebrate Nashville Executive Director
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LEADERSHIP IN BUILDING COMMUNITY AWARD
Metro Parks
Metro Parks was recognized for the important role public spaces play in creating community, preserving history and culture, and providing places where Nashville residents can come together.
Recent projects including Mariposa Park and Wasioto Park demonstrate how public spaces can reflect the history, identity and changing communities of Nashville.
Presented by Loraine Segovia Paz to Metro Parks and Recreation Director Monique Odom. Alana Hibbler of Metro Parks attended the presentation.
| | Program participants and members of the NAHCC and NAHCC Foundation boards joined award recipients and elected officials on stage for a celebratory photo at the conclusion of the program. | |
Recognition Without Expectation
Each year, NAHCC award recipients are selected based on their contributions, leadership, service and impact on the Hispanic business community and the broader Nashville region.
A longstanding tradition of the awards is that recipients are not notified in advance that they have been selected.
“When someone participates without any expectation of recognition, it speaks to their genuine dedication to our mission and the community we serve,” Cunza said.
That element of surprise has become an important part of the awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose work speaks for itself.
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An American Story Still Being Written
During his remarks, Cunza also acknowledged that the celebration took place during a difficult period for many immigrant families, workers and businesses.
He emphasized that supporting public safety, an orderly immigration system, a stable workforce and human dignity should not be viewed as competing goals.
“Immigrants—and Hispanic immigrants in particular—are not outside the American story. They are part of it,” Cunza told attendees.
He noted their role in building cities, growing businesses, creating jobs, raising families, serving visitors, making music and strengthening communities.
“And that American story is still being written.”
The evening, he said, celebrated people helping write its next chapter through excellence, leadership, ganas, legacy, culture and community.
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Thank You to Our Community
NAHCC extends its appreciation to Belmont University, the NAHCC Board of Directors, the NAHCC Foundation and its leadership, corporate and community partners, sponsors, presenters, performers, artists, volunteers and everyone who helped make the 22nd annual celebration possible.
Following the formal program, guests continued the celebration at an after-party hosted by Tio Fun!, owned by NAHCC Board Member Mikey Corona.
The evening concluded a month of Hispanic Heritage Month activities while continuing NAHCC’s year-round work supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening partnerships and creating opportunities across Middle Tennessee.
Photo credits: Myl/MPack Photography, Karlha Ramon, Perla Salas, Loraine Segovia Paz, and the Consulate General of Guatemala in Tennessee.
| | Among our distinguished guests were Consul General Samantha Illescas and members of the Consulate General of Guatemala in Nashville, Tennessee. We appreciate their participation and dedicated service to our community. | | |
About the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: Founded in 2000, the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) is Tennessee’s oldest Hispanic business association. NAHCC promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and businesses while connecting members with opportunities, resources, strategic partnerships and the broader business community.
Through its membership, programs, advocacy and partnerships, NAHCC works to strengthen businesses and build bridges across Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
Unity in Community. www.nashvillehispanicchamber.com
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