Walt Disney representative Efrain Fuentes welcomed the audience and spoke about the importance of the Latino and Latina consumer and the need of a universal theme of unity among Latinos.

The morning’s workshops exposed the audience to useful information, ranging from small business development to technology trends to financial planning. Sandra Sutton, district director of the U.S. Small Business Administration, spoke first, followed by Velma Sanchez, national initiatives regional director for Citibank; Emma Ramirez-Hightower, an agent with State Farm Insurance; Martita Mestey, director of ihispano.com; and Jose Ulloa, president of Latinos 2010.

Following the morning speakers, it was time for the Latina Entrepreneur Award Luncheon sponsored by Office Depot. Jayne V. Mossler, regional marketing manager for Office Depot, and Mistress of Ceremony Maria Garcia, special assignment reporter for Telemundo 52, introduced keynote speaker Maria Marin, president and CEO of Voices of Empowerment. Marin encouraged the audience to take action and make its dreams come true without setting any limitations. “Expect more,” she said. “You demand more and you will get more!”

Following the delicious meal, the afternoon provided a little food for the soul with the Latina Entrepreneur Experience and Success Panel. Moderated by Oralia Michel of Oralia Michel Marketing and Public Relations, the panel was comprised of three successful businesswomen: Maria de Lourdes Sobrino, owner of Lulu’s Dessert; Sheila Guarderas, president and CEO of Superior Services; and Emily Robinson, president of Robinson and Associates. The panelists shared stories of their initiation into entrepreneurship, the challenges they encountered, and their triumphs. “Hearing how other women started their business,” said attendee Cheryl Espinoza, “inspires me as a Latina to use all the resources available to us to become strong and provide for our community.”