Fifteen years ago, six visionaries saw something most overlooked: the immense potential of Latin American professionals in Canada's tech ecosystem. In 2024, we didn't just see that potential—we continued to unleash it.
This year wasn't just about numbers. It was about transforming lives, enhancing careers, breaking barriers, and proving that when you invest in community, magic happens.
On November 13th, we celebrated our 15th Anniversary with our host and sponsor, CIBC. CIBC is a proud ally and partner that has helped us amplify Latin/Hispanic voices in showcasing the incredible talent across our communities.
First of all, the most extensive appreciation and gratitude goes to all our members, volunteers, past and present directors, the six visionary founders, our guest speakers, mentors, partners, sponsors and every ally we have found throughout these fifteen years. This milestone would not have been possible without your support.
A huge thank you goes to our master of ceremonies, Marlon Gonzalez; our media partner, New Canadians, as well. Gerard Keledjian, and Shruti Dargan, we're grateful for their ongoing support and nationwide coverage of immigrant communities and events. Watch our short commemorative video at https://lnkd.in/gMSbCRTp.
With over 200 guests, the night was a thrilling mix of connections with new and old friends, appreciation and celebration of our ongoing spirit of giving back.
Lino Caccavelli, CIBC's Vice President of Technology and Carlos E. Paz-Soldan, Hispanotech .ca's President, kicked us off with opening remarks and a warm welcome to this milestone celebration.
Our vice president, Citlalli Rios, CSPO®, moderated a panel with Diana Moyano, MMAI, Gustavo Maass and Juan Carlos Hernandez Florez - CIFC. They discussed the importance of belonging to a community, the need to elevate immigrant talent, and how Hispanotech has shaped their personal and professional journeys.
Later on, Jose Figueroa (CID) and Deiry Ali presided over our Mentorship Program's graduation ceremony. Congratulations to all graduated mentees and mentors! Our mentorship program tells a hopeful story. Take Diana, who transitioned from a junior role to a project management position at a leading tech firm. Or Juan Carlos, who used our networking events to connect with his dream employer. These aren't just success stories—they're proof of what's possible when opportunity meets preparation.
We also received a thoughtful acknowledgment from our partner LPMN - Latin Project Management Network. We ended with networking time, some fun with a 360° video booth, and our traditional group picture.
Also, our appreciation to Isabel Inclan, and their channel, The Essential, for always supporting and documenting our events. We loved their video: https://youtu.be/EO5ZV8bWg0I?si=U0eFBV7iJWtPYWqs
Congratulations to the founders: Gustavo Maass, Ernesto Proo, Mauricio Ospina , Gabriel Leiva von Bovet, Mario Ferrer, Manuel Rodriguez for their vision and dedication in creating a platform of community and belonging for newcomers.
Highlights that capture our 2024 journey:
15th Anniversary Celebration with CIBC: A night celebrating 15 years of building bridges https://lnkd.in/guM_7y5T
Multiple presentations about Artificial Intelligence, as well as the development of AI tools to help our Members and the professional community at large https://lnkd.in/giysTy-3
Latin American Heritage Month Panel: Amplifying our community's economic and cultural contributions https://lnkd.in/gt5Qgs4i
Mentorship Program Launch: Where potential meets guidance https://lnkd.in/ggbJPTJs
By the numbers:
• 500+ professionals supported through our mentorship program
• 5,000+ LinkedIn connections
• New partnership with RolPlay AI coaching platform
• Advocacy for Latin American professional recognition
Recaps here: https://lnkd.in/eiDTjaSS, here https://lnkd.in/eq79SxUW and here https://lnkd.in/ekfm7g5G
Visit our dedicated space with photos and videos: https://lnkd.in/gcJ7czGH
