Some forms of recognition go beyond the mere presentation of a plaque or diploma. They are tributes that tell stories of sacrifice, vocation, and service — stories reflecting the face of a community that, through quiet effort, has contributed for decades to the growth of the Tampa Bay area.
That was the spirit behind the luncheon honoring the Hispanic Leadership Class of 2026, organized by Tampa Hispanic Heritage, Inc. (THHI). Since 1979, this nonprofit organization has become a leading guardian of Hispanic cultural identity in West Florida.
For over 44 years, THHI has brought together Hispanic organizations and leaders to preserve traditions, promote education and strengthen leadership among new generations.
Each year, its calendar of activities includes the official proclamation of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Hispanic Man and Woman of the Year Gala, student essay and poster contests, and the now-traditional Hispanic Leadership Class, which recognizes individuals whose work leaves a lasting mark on the community.
A selection based on merit and service
For Carolina Ruiz, president of Tampa Hispanic Heritage, each award represents months of analysis, responsibility, and commitment.
“It is the community that nominates the candidates,” she said. “After nominations close, the 17 volunteers on our board of directors review every life story and résumé, carefully debating who best represents Hispanic leadership in each category.”
It is not merely about rewarding a professional career, but about recognizing lives that inspire others.
Ruiz, who is also the market manager for CENTRO Tampa, affirms that the organization’s primary goal has remained unchanged since its founding: to preserve, promote and celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture in Tampa Bay. But it also looks to the future. THHI is working on a mentorship program to enable past honorees to guide and train new Hispanic leaders.
The message shared with the community encapsulates the organization’s spirit: “We should be proud of where we come from. It doesn’t matter which country you are from. Hispanics possess an extraordinarily rich culture, and we must unite more than ever to preserve and celebrate it.”
When recognition belongs to everyone
One of the ceremony’s most moving moments came with the recognition of Venezuelan journalist Vladimir Kislinger — anchor of the Spanish-language newscast on WFLA News Channel 8 — who received the award in the Media category.
Far from viewing the accolade as a personal achievement, Kislinger noted that journalism has always been a collective effort.
He humbly admitted that he never works with awards in mind. “You have to work to help others. Recognition comes naturally when you do the right thing.”
After five years of reporting daily to the Tampa Bay Hispanic community, the journalist views this award as representing the shared effort of those who go out every day to tell stories, support families, and serve through the media.
However, there was a moment when the emotion shifted. Reflecting on the difficult situation facing his native Venezuela, he dedicated the award to the millions of Venezuelans who continue to face trying times.
“Great nations always rebuild from the ashes. I dedicate this award to my beloved, beleaguered country.” His words drew some of the day’s most heartfelt applause.
Educating to transform lives
In the Education category, Cuban professor Odette Figueruelo, an instructor at Hillsborough Community College, was recognized for her decades of dedication to her students.
Holding the award in her hands, she admitted that her thoughts were not on herself; instead, she reflected on the faces of the hundreds of young people who had passed through her classrooms.
“This award made me think of all my students. Many still stay in touch with me, and seeing them achieve their goals is one of the greatest satisfactions of my life.” A graduate of the University of South Florida — with studies in International Relations and a master’s degree in Spanish Language and Literature — Figueruelo has dedicated much of her career to supporting Hispanic students who arrive with their families in search of new opportunities in the United States.
For her, education does not end with a diploma; it also involves extending a helping hand to those coming up behind.
Her message was simple but powerful: “Just as someone helped me when I was a student, those who achieve their goals today must do the same for new generations.”
Culture as a bridge between peoples
Puerto Rican native Janet García, founder of Pura Bomba y Cultura, was honored in the Arts category for nearly 20 years of preserving Puerto Rican cultural traditions through music, dance, and education.
Her emotion was evident. “This award belongs to the Hispanic community, for the Hispanic community.”
Beyond representing Puerto Rican culture, García has turned her work into a space where people of all Hispanic nationalities find common ground.
Her mission, she states, is to unite. “It doesn’t matter which country you are from.” “We are here to elevate our cultural richness and support one another.”
At a time when differences often dominate the headlines, their message served as a reminder that culture remains one of the most powerful languages for building community.
Recognizing Hispanic leadership
The Hispanic Leadership Class of 2026 also honored other figures who have made a profound impact on the Tampa Bay area.
Manny Medina was recognized in the Business category; Melissa Ramos in Civic Engagement; Adri Colina in Public Service; and the Hillsborough Community College campus in Ybor City was selected in the Pride category for its educational and community impact.
Each represents a different form of leadership, yet all share a common denominator: using their work to strengthen the Hispanic community.