Milestone Celebration Becomes a Latino Movement 

Hollywood, Florida;  The 25th anniversary celebration, Hispanic Women of Distinction of South Florida, was presented Friday, August 21, 2026 by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in partnership with Latina Style Magazine, Nicklaus Children’s Health System, Latin Business Today and more than 40 corporate and media sponsors also supported the event.

The 2026 program honored 13 women selected from more than 60 nominations submitted across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Their accomplishments span medicine, business, public service, nonprofit leadership and community advocacy, illustrating the expanding role Latina leaders continue to play in shaping the region.

Hispanic Women of Distinction was founded in 2001 by the late Dr. Erwin M. Vasquez, a Venezuelan cardiologist, philanthropist and publisher of El Heraldo de Broward, a pioneering Spanish-language newspaper. His vision was to establish a platform that would recognize the influence and accomplishments of Latina women while helping create opportunities for future generations. Twenty-five years later, that mission has grown into one of South Florida’s most established celebrations of Hispanic women’s leadership.

“We have built much more than an awards program; we have created a movement,” said Elaine Miceli Vasquez, co-founder and producer of the event. “The next generation is watching us. Today, young girls can see themselves reflected in women who speak their language, honor their culture and show them that no dream is beyond their reach.”

The sold-out luncheon began with a reception featuring music by Mariachi Voces de America and complimentary cocktail from Tito’s Vodka.   Guests also explored the business expo, participated in raffles and supported a silent auction before entering the ballroom for the awards luncheon. The American Lung Association was selected as the event’s 2026 nonprofit beneficiary. Funds generated through the silent auction, raffles, sponsorships and advertising will support efforts to improve lung health, prevent respiratory disease and promote cleaner air.

The program incorporated South Florida’s cultural traditions through music, dance and the annual parade of former honorees who earned the title of Hispanic Women of Distinction since 2001.  Performers from Carnaval de Barranquilla Miami led the procession down a 140 foot runway bringing color, energy and cultural pride to the milestone celebration.

The 2026 program honored 13 women selected from more than 60 nominations submitted across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, announced by Mistress of Ceremonies, Myriam Masihy, of NBC 6/Telemundo 51, celebrating her 18th year at the podium.  Their accomplishments span medicine, business, public service, nonprofit leadership and community advocacy, illustrating the expanding role Latina leaders continue to play in shaping the region.

The 2026 Hispanic Women of Distinction were Jacqueline Ceballos, Maria Jose Haimovitch, Michelle Harper, Alex Llerena, Martha Guerra-Kattou, Janet Lorenzo-Garcia, Griselle Marino, Dr. h.c., Cristina Martinez-Gonzalez, Maria C. Mejia, M.D., Maria Alejandra Membreno, Michelle “Mish” Pelaez, Nercy Barroso Radcliffe and Soraya Rivera-Moya.

One of the luncheon’s defining moments was the recognition of Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosanna “Rosie” Cordero-Stutz as the 2026 Latina Pioneer of the Year. With more than 30 years of law-enforcement experience, Cordero-Stutz is the first Hispanic woman to serve as sheriff in Florida history.

After 25 years, Hispanic Women of Distinction represents more than an annual luncheon. It has become a multigenerational platform for preserving women’s stories, celebrating Hispanic identity and showing future leaders what is possible.

Elected officials, diplomatic and consular representatives, business executives, community leaders and past honorees joined the celebration. The sold-out gathering reflected both the strength of the program and the growing importance of ensuring that Latina achievements are recognized publicly.

When young women see leaders who share their language, cultural heritage and lived experiences, professional ambitions can feel more attainable.

Latina Colombian American Physician Scientist, Professor

Puerto Rican Latina Social Responsibility & Marketing Leader

Latina Cuban American Dedicated to Empowering the Vulnerable

Latina Colombian American Brand Strategist & PR

Latina Puerto Rican a Champion of Children

Latina Venezuelan American Strategist, Community Builder

Latina Nicaraguan American Dedicated to Public Service

Latina Dominican American First Female Dade County Sheriff

Latina Cuban-Born Latina Entrepreneur, Designer & Philanthropist

Latina Cuban- American CEO, Author, Philanthropist

Latina Founder Medicare-Medicaid Certified Home Health Agency

Latina Cuban American Multi-Emmy Award-Winning Journalist

Latina Bank Executive Helps Community Tap Financial Pathways

Latina Cuban American COO of Prominent Law Firm

Cuban American Latina U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and Public Health Advocate

Puerto Rican Latina Social Responsibility & Marketing Leader