Where Leadership Meets Legacy: A Landmark Luncheon by the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
- Tyzza Macias
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
The sun shone bright over Dallas on Friday, November 14, as the Imperial Ballroom at the Hilton Anatole brimmed with anticipation, purpose, and a palpable sense of momentum. The Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce welcomed more than just a luncheon that afternoon; it welcomed a moment of significance.
From the onset, the energy was high. Behind the scenes, in the VIP lounge, Latina news anchor and professional event host Kristin Diaz was already setting the tone. Interviewing Chamber board members and offering an intimate glimpse into the leadership shaping the future of Hispanic business in Dallas. Her presence carried a sense of purpose and excitement that flowed seamlessly into the ballroom.
Once she made her way to the main stage, Kristin commanded the room with unmistakable charisma. Her voice rose and fell with precision, drawing the audience into stories of triumph, challenge, and commitment, ensuring that each attendee felt not just present but truly invested.
The luncheon was steeped in prestige: Dallas’s most influential leaders, city officials, and rising entrepreneurs filled the room. The glint of ambition and the warmth of community collided as tables conversed and ideas circulated. It was at once a formal affair and an invitation to bold forward motion.
The afternoon unfolded with a thoughtful and intentional program. Opening remarks were delivered by Amanda Moreno-Lake, Interim President and CEO and Board Chair of the GDHCC, grounding the event in purpose and progress. The introduction of the GDHCC Growth Foundation by Board Chair Olga López highlighted the organization’s commitment to economic mobility and community advancement. An invocation from Dr. Marco Rico of Familia Bethel International offered a moment of reflection before lunch service.
The keynote address, delivered by Dr. Michael Hinojosa, Superintendent in Residence for the Council of Great City Schools and the Texas Urban Council, provided a powerful perspective on leadership, education, and the responsibility of shaping future generations.
The prestigious Legacy Awards, presented by the event’s award sponsors, honored individuals whose innovation, service, and leadership have transformed North Texas. A distinguished President’s Award, presented by Amanda Moreno-Lake, underscored the Chamber’s recognition of exceptional community impact. The program continued with the introduction of GDHCC Ambassadors by Margie Aguilar, Membership and Ambassador Committee Chair, who later delivered closing remarks that echoed the spirit of unity and momentum felt throughout the ballroom.
The luncheon also provided an important spotlight through the annual Quality & Excellence Awards. Celebrating six transformative figures whose work continues to reshape Hispanic business across North Texas. These honorees—Alfredo Duarte, Diana Flores, Dr. Elba García, John H. Martinez, Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, and Noé Hinojosa Jr. embody leadership rooted in service, mentorship, and visionary impact.
One of the afternoon’s most stirring moments came when Kristin invited the room to reflect on a single phrase: “What legacy will you leave?” The question hung in the air like a mirror, and in that shared silence, you could feel minds shifting from applause to action.
Another unforgettable moment came when Diana Flores addressed the familiar phrase, “calladitas se ven más bonitas.”She acknowledged its deep roots in our communities and firmly rejected it. She reminded the room that silence is not beauty, and compliance is not strength. Her message was clear: this mindset has no place in the lives of Latinas today. We are meant to speak, lead, question, and take up space.
Her words resonated through the ballroom like a collective permission slip, an invitation to dismantle outdated expectations and embrace a future where Latinas are heard, seen, and valued for their voices.
“The phrase ‘calladitas se ven más bonitas’ has no place in the future. Latinas deserve to be heard, seen, and valued.”
Yet the luncheon was more than speeches and awards. It was a convergence of purpose. A reminder that economic empowerment, representation, and community leadership aren’t lofty ideals but shared responsibilities. The Chamber’s work, especially through its Empowered CEO Institute and entrepreneurial programs, underscores this mission.
But perhaps the most inspiring element of the afternoon was the undeniable presence of Latina women. It was powerful to witness so many Latinas stepping confidently into the spotlight, refusing to shrink, refusing to stand behind, choosing instead to claim space at the forefront. Throughout the room, seasoned Latina leaders embraced emerging ones, offering guidance, encouragement, and opportunity. It was a vivid testament to what happens when Latinas of influence uplift one another, creating pathways not only for today but for generations to come.
For me, the takeaway was unmistakable: when leaders share space, stories, and strategy, the result transcends connection. It becomes collective momentum. Leaving the ballroom, I felt inspired to reflect on my own role in shaping legacy. How am I expanding representation and storytelling for our community? And how can I continue contributing to an ecosystem that amplifies Hispanic excellence and empowers the voices shaping North Texas and beyond?
In the months ahead, as the Chamber continues its vital work and elevates new leaders, this luncheon serves as a reminder: leadership is not static. It evolves, it accelerates, and above all, it invites the next generation forward. The ripples of this gathering will move across our community long after the lights dim, inspiring progress that will outlast every handshake, conversation, and photo captured that day.
