DISCOVER THE LEGACY OF
THE DON QUIJOTE AWARDS

Celebrating the success, unity and empowerment of the
Hispanic community in Central Florida.

History of the Don Quijote Awards

The Don Quijote Awards gala was first conceived in 1997 by a group of visionaries from the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera. As Central Florida’s Hispanic community grew rapidly, these leaders saw the need to recognize the hard-working, innovative business owners and professionals who exhibited the spirit of Don Quixote: visionaries, dreamers, and businessmen and women willing to take risks to achieve those dreams.

For 27 years, the two organizations have teamed up to honor those who demonstrate extraordinary skills in their field of work. The Don Quijote Awards have grown from 250 guests to 1,000 and have earned recognition from the Florida Association of Festivals and Events and the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals as Best Event of the Year.

To date, 169 individuals have been honored with the prestigious award for their contributions and achievements as community leaders, business owners and outstanding professionals.

History of the Lladró statuette

In 1953, Juan, José and Vicente Lladró made their first creations inspired by an experimental vocation at their home in Almássera (Valencia), Spain. In 1955, they were already creating sculptures that were clearly influenced by 18th century trends. These pieces evoked the works of ancient porcelain artists such as Meissen, Sèrves and Capodimonte.

In 1958, the Lladró brothers decided to dedicate themselves exclusively to their own works and moved their small company to a warehouse in the neighboring town of Tavernes Blanques.

The brothers introduced innovations not only in the design and style of the figurines, but also in the firing techniques, reducing the three-layer firing to a single-layer process. Single firing is an innovative method that creates the crystalline finish and pastel shades typical of Lladró works.

In 1998, the first Don Quijote committee selected the exquisite Don Quijote statuette as the official award of this world-class event. The Lladró Don Quijote statuette symbolizes the elegance, uniqueness, passion and dedication of the outstanding individuals who have the honor of being recognized with this splendid award.

Award categories

CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH OF THE AWARD CATEGORIES

Hispanic
Micro Enterprise
of the year

Emerging companies that have grown in their first five years of operation.

Hispanic
Enterprise
of the year

Established companies with extensive experience and innovation in their industry.

Professional
of the year

Exceptional leadership, impact, and contributions in their professional field.

Excellence

Individual or organization that has contributed to the Hispanic community.

Hispanic
community
champion

For significant contributions to the advancement of the Hispanic community.

Community Commitment

The Don Quijote Awards goes beyond a night of celebration, it represents a deep commitment to strengthening and empowering the Hispanic community in Central Florida. This signature event contributes in a variety of ways to the economic, educational, and social development of our region.

Community Commitment

The Don Quijote Awards 2024 goes beyond a night of celebration; it represents a deep commitment to strengthening and empowering the Hispanic community in Central Florida. This signature event contributes in a variety of ways to the economic, educational and social development of our region.

Economic Development

Through strategic partnerships with organizations such as Prospera, the event fosters the growth of Hispanic entrepreneurs by providing access to vital resources, training and funding opportunities. Over the past five years, Prospera has facilitated more than $60 million in loans, trained more than 20,000 entrepreneurs and helped create or retain more than 16,000 jobs. These efforts are reflected in the positive and tangible impact on the community, promoting an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Social Empowerment

The Don Quijote Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service. By recognizing and rewarding these role models, others are inspired to become actively involved and contribute to the well-being of the community. This public recognition serves as a catalyst for civic participation and social engagement, creating a network of support and collaboration that amplifies the impact of each individual effort.

Social Empowerment

The Don Quijote Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service. By recognizing and rewarding these role models, others are inspired to become actively involved and contribute to the well-being of the community. This public recognition serves as a catalyst for civic participation and social engagement, creating a network of support and collaboration that amplifies the impact of each individual effort.

PREVIOUS WINNERS

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane and Discover our Past Winners

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code for the event?

The dress code for the event is formal. Ladies are expected to wear long gala dresses, while gentlemen should attire themselves in suits.

How can I purchase my tickets?

Secure your spot at the event by purchasing tickets online on the “TICKETS” tab. Simply click the button to choose your ticket type, complete your registration, and make your payment. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity!

Are there any sponsorship opportunities available?

Yes, sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels. Please fill out the form on our “SPONSORSHIP” tab for more details on how you can support the event.

Who can I contact for more information?

For more information, please fill out our form on the “CONTACT US” tab. We are happy to assist with any questions or special requests.

Our History

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The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando (Hispanic Chamber) traces its roots back to 1993 when it emerged from the consolidation of two prominent chambers of commerce: the Latin Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, Inc., and the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida. Originally known as the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, the organization underwent a name change in recognition of its commitment to serving Hispanic businesses throughout the greater Orlando area. With the appointment of Ramón A. Ojeda as its inaugural full-time president in 2003, the Hispanic Chamber solidified its leadership role within the local Hispanic business community, setting the stage for years of growth and innovation.

Throughout its history, the Hispanic Chamber has been deeply engaged in community development and empowerment initiatives. In 2004, it played a pivotal role in establishing the Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fund of Metro Orlando, a vital resource that has awarded substantial scholarships to over 130 deserving students, totaling more than $400,000 in financial assistance. By 2005, the organization celebrated a significant milestone with 1,000 active members, a testament to its expanding influence and support base within the region. The following year, its signature event, the Hispanic Business & Consumer Expo, garnered national acclaim for its exceptional turnout and impact, attracting over 25,000 attendees and earning prestigious accolades from the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals.

As the Hispanic Chamber continued to evolve, it embraced a broader vision of economic collaboration and international outreach. From organizing its first Business Mission Trip to Mexico in 2008 to securing federal funding for economic development initiatives in 2009, the organization demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing the interests of Hispanic businesses in Central Florida and beyond. This commitment culminated in its recognition as the 2012 and 2016 Hispanic Chamber of the Year by the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, underscoring its leadership in business innovation, community service, and advocacy. Looking ahead, the Hispanic Chamber remains dedicated to championing diversity, fostering unity, and serving as a leading voice for the Hispanic community in the 21st century.

In 2023, the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando achieved recognition as one of the top ten Hispanic chambers in the nation and top three in the region. The organization embarked on a new era, marking its evolution and renewed dedication to core values: fortifying collaboration, empowering entrepreneurs, achieving shared successes, and promoting unity within the Central Florida business community. This evolution includes embracing strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships, alongside a significant leadership transition. In 2023, the board approved the establishment of a new 501(c)(3) entity with a mission to promote Florida’s economic progress and global competitiveness by fostering the growth of Hispanic enterprises and advancing Hispanic executive development. This initiative aims to bolster economic growth, drive innovation, and pave the way for continued prosperity in Central Florida.

Together, we are committed to building a vibrant and resilient business ecosystem that thrives on diversity, inclusivity, and collective progress.

2022



HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Guacamole Mexican Grill

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS SkyBuilders

USA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Luis Nieves-Ruiz, Economic Development Director, East Central Florida Regional Planning Council

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Dr. James Michael Burkett, President, Florida Technical College

EXCELLENCE

Former State Representative Bob Cortes, Senior Government Affairs Administrator, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Modesto Alcala

2021

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Capella Immigration Law,

PLLC HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Castillo Engineering Services, LLC

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Diana Almodóvar, P.E., Orange County Public Works Department

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Clint Bullock, OUC – The Reliable One

EXCELLENCE

Chief Orlando Rolón, Orlando Police Department

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Paul Gamache

 

2020

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Ybeth Bruzual, Spectrum News 13

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Lui Damiani, Victim Service Center of Central Florida

EXCELLENCE

Graciela Noriega – Jacoby, Heart of Florida United Way

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Betty Martínez Lowery

2019

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

NuCare Therapy

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

SIMETRI, Inc.

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Giorgina Pinedo Rolón, Ph. D, City of Orlando

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Hon. Andy Gardiner, Orlando Health

EXCELLENCE

Chief Louis Quiñones, Orange County Corrections Department

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

José Nido

2018

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Nebbia Technology

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Orlando Montessori Bilingual Academy

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Vicki Jaramillo, Orlando International Airport

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Nancy Gidusko†, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts

EXCELLENCE

Yamile Luna, AdventHealth

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Janet Pérez Eckles

2017

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Hispanic Family Counseling

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Advanced IT Concepts, Inc.

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Dr Adalberto Lopez, Jr., Nemours Children’s Hospital+

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Dr. Ron Piccolo, University of Central Florida

EXCELLENCE

Adriana Comellas-Macretti

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Yolanda Londoño

2016

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Advanced Physical Medicine, Inc.

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Transpremier, LLC

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Janet Martínez, ShuffieldLowman

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Dr. E. Ann McGee, Seminole State College

EXCELLENCE

David Ruiz, UPS

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Henry Maldonado

2015

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Chatter Buzz

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Albu & Associates, Inc.

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Karla Radka, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Aaron Hill, Reed Nissan

EXCELLENCE

Shawn Seipler, Clean the World Foundation

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Hon. Melquiades “Mel” Martínez

2014

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Mónica Oganes & Associates

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

COMELCO, Inc.

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Elisha González Bonnewitz,Valencia College

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Dr. Kathleen Plinske Ed. D,Valencia College

EXCELLENCE

Dr. Gregor Alexander, Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Blanquita Trabold†

2012

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

CCH Marketing & Events, Inc.

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Conpilog International

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Lourdes Quintana, Orlando Health

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Tony Jenkins, Florida Blue

EXCELLENCE

Melissa Martínez Hernández, Office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Lizette Valarino

2011

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Kings Service Solutions

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Resource Employment Solutions

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

José Costa, Nodarse a Terracon Company

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Eugene Campbell†, Walt Disney World Parks & Resorts

EXCELLENCE

Guillermo “Bill” Hansen, El Osceola Star Newspaper†

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Antonia Coello Novello, M.D., M.P.H, Dr.PH

2010

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Happy Paws Pet Resort

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Pollos Pio Enterprises

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Dr. Humberto Campins. Ph. D, University of Central Florida

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Sister Ann Kendrick, HOPE CommUnity Center

EXCELLENCE

Dr. Miguel Lugo, Ophthalmologist

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Ricardo Pesquera, Esq.

2009

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Santoni International Builders, LLC

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Sol Time

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Marcos R. Marchena, Marchena & Graham, P.A.

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Linda Landman-González, Orlando Magic

EXCELLENCE

Dr. Tomasita Ortiz, Ed. D, Sistema Universitario Ana G. Méndez

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Olga Calvet

2008

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – THREE YEARS OR LESS

Closed Caption Latina

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN THREE YEARS

NR Electronics, LLC

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Homan Machuca, Telemundo Orlando

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Linda W. Chapin, University of Central Florida

EXCELLENCE

Manuel D. Soto, City of Orlando

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Dora Toro

2007

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – THREE YEARS OR LESS

Signtek Graphics

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN THREE
YEARS

Habana Grill Restaurant

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

George Rodón, Orange County Government

EXCELLENCE

Judge Wilfredo Martínez, Orange County 9th Judicial Circuit Court

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTConrad Santiago

2006

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – THREE YEARS OR LESS

GRG Structures Group

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN THREE YEARS

Royal Press Printing

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Dr. José Fernández, Ph. D, University of Central Florida

EXCELLENCE:

Father Miguel González, Diocese of Orlando

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Tirso Moreno

2023

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

BOLD Digital Marketing Studio
Ana Carolina Salazar, Owner

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Competitive Edge Partners & Consulting LLC.
Debbie Rodriguez, Owner

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Dr. Cyndia Muñiz
Senior Director of Hispanic Serving
Institution Initiatives and Partnerships

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Jeff Hayward
President and CEO, Heart of
Florida United Way (HFUW)

EXCELLENCE

Dr. Maria Vázquez
Superintendent,
Orange County Public Schools

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Jan Aspuru
Retired, OUC – The Reliable One

2013

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – FIVE YEARS OR LESS

Echo Interaction Group

HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – MORE THAN FIVE YEARS

Kidsville Pediatrics
PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Leticia M. Díaz, Barry University School of Law

HISPANIC COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Jerry Ross, National Entrepreneur Center

EXCELLENCE

Lt. Col. Wilson Ariza, US Army’s Medical Simulation Program

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Rafael Medina† & Luisa Medina

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