The 28th Don Quijote Awards Spotlight Central Florida’s Hispanic Visionaries

Photo: Courtesy of Prospera

At a moment when Hispanic entrepreneurs are reshaping America’s economic landscape, Central Florida is emerging as one of the country’s most dynamic hubs of Latino innovation. That momentum was unmistakable as the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera announced the finalists and honorees for the 28th Don Quijote Awards, a prestigious recognition program now in its 28th year of celebrating leaders who drive growth, equity, and cultural impact across the region.

The announcement took place at the Center for Health and Wellbeing, with space provided by the Winter Park Health Foundation, where civic leaders, business innovators, and regional stakeholders gathered to honor those shaping the future of Central Florida’s Hispanic community. Opening the press conference, Juan Amo, Chair of the 28th Don Quijote Awards Gala and Senior Vice President, Marketing Executive at Bank of America, framed the day with a call to purpose. “What I hope our community takes away from this year's Don Quijote Awards is a renewed belief in the power of perseverance and purpose. The stories of our finalists and honorees show success isn't defined by circumstance, but by courage to lead, to serve, and to dream beyond limits,” said Amo.

For nearly three decades, the Don Quijote Awards have recognized individuals and businesses whose accomplishments reflect the strength, resilience, and promise of the region’s Hispanic community. This year’s winners will be announced on Saturday, December 13, 2025, during a gala at Epcot’s World Showplace Pavilion, where celebrations will take place from 6:00 p.m. until midnight. Organizers also unveiled the theme for the 2025 gala: "Legacy in Motion," a message centered on heritage, mentorship, and the collective power of a community advancing together toward the future.

Pedro Turushina, President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, captured the spirit behind the theme in a message that resonated across generations. “Every one of us carries a thread that was first placed by a mentor, a leader, or someone who believed in us before we believed in ourselves. That single thread has woven into the larger tapestry we stand on today. This year's theme, Legacy in Motion, reminds us that while a single strand can break under pressure, braided together we form a rope strong enough to pull the future forward. As we honor our trailblazers, we honor the past that shaped us and the future we're determined to build together,” he said.

That sense of shared responsibility and forward movement echoed in the remarks of Prospera Central & Northeast Florida Regional Vice President Katia Medina. “Each year, Prospera and the Hispanic Chamber partner for the Don Quijote Awards to highlight the perseverance, vision, and leadership that define our community. Leadership is not only about achievement; it's also about the legacy we leave, and we proudly celebrate those whose courage and determination have paved the way for others, whose legacy continues to inspire new generations to dream even bigger. We can't wait to celebrate them at the 28th Don Quijote Awards Gala!”

The finalists for this year’s awards reflect the breadth and vitality of the region’s Hispanic business sector. In the micro-enterprise category, Dr. Bling by Bling Aesthetics, represented by Dr. Ariel Casillas and Javier Hernandez, stands alongside Graceful Paws Pet Clinic, operated by Dr. Lynette Reyes, and Mia, Mia Brand, led by Juan Ceballos and Maria Tapias. Three businesses rooted in service, creativity, and community trust. Larger enterprises were represented by Angel For Kids and Families, owned by Elizabeth and John Valencia; Taino’s Bakery, operated by Nicolas Fuste and Liza Padilla; and Coffee For The Soul, founded by Paola Bornacelli, each reflecting the cultural and economic influence of Hispanic-owned businesses across Central Florida.

Leadership within major institutions was also highlighted. Dr. Andrea Guzman, Vice President for Access and Community Engagement at the University of Central Florida; Rafael Caamaño, Director of UCF Innovation Districts and the Business Incubation Program; and Jeff Villanueva, CEO of AdventHealth Seminole Market, were recognized in the Professional of the Year category for their contributions to access, innovation, and community wellbeing. The Excellence Award finalists—Ana L. Cruz, HOLA Coordinator at the City of Orlando; Dr. Valeria Baldivieso, Geriatric Medicine Medical Director at AdventHealth; and Carlos Torres, Chief Deputy at the Orange County Sheriff's Office were honored for their service, leadership, and commitment to uplifting diverse communities.

Among the most anticipated recognitions were the Hispanic Community Champion and Lifetime Achievement Awards, both of which were selected independently by the Don Quijote Awards Selection Committee. This year’s Hispanic Community Champion Award went to Jennifer Evins, President and CEO of United Arts of Central Florida, whose leadership has broadened representation, strengthened nonprofit institutions, and expanded visibility for Hispanic artists across the region. Under her guidance, Hispanic representation on the United Arts board has grown to 20 percent, and her Diverse Leadership Pipeline initiative continues to open doors for leaders from all backgrounds. As described in the press release, “With passion and vision, Jennifer Evins is building bridges through the arts, celebrating culture, inspiring creativity, and shaping a stronger, more connected Central Florida.”

The 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Ramon Ojeda, Executive Director of the National Mango Board and a defining figure in the evolution of Hispanic business leadership in Central Florida. Ojeda, the first President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando, transformed the organization into a national model for economic inclusion. Membership more than doubled and revenues tripled during his tenure, earning the Chamber the title of “Chamber of the Year” and Ojeda the distinction of “Executive of the Year.” Today, his leadership continues to champion small businesses and promote healthier lifestyles nationwide.

The Don Quijote Awards are supported by a coalition of leading partners, including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Wells Fargo, Orlando Health, Bank of America, Universal Destinations and Experiences, Advent Health, Travel + Leisure, Hard Rock, OUC The Reliable One, Florida Blue, JPMorganChase, and JCQ Services, among others. Their commitment reflects the broader recognition that Hispanic talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship are essential to the region’s and the nation’s economic future.

As Central Florida prepares for the December celebration, the 28th Don Quijote Awards stand as a testament to both legacy and momentum. A recognition not only of where the community has been, but of the expansive future it continues to build. In honoring these leaders, the region affirms a truth increasingly evident across the country: the Latino story is not a chapter in America’s growth. It is one of its driving forces.