ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera co-hosted the 28th annual Don Quijote Awards Gala on Dec. 13, 2025, at EPCOT’s World Showplace Pavilion, bringing together business, civic, and community leaders from across Central Florida to celebrate outstanding Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals.
Presented with the support of major sponsors including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, and others, the prestigious gala honored individuals whose leadership, perseverance, and vision continue to drive economic growth and community impact throughout the region. Florida National News captured highlights from the landmark celebration.
“Walt Disney World is a strong supporter of Central Florida’s entrepreneurial spirit, and we do business with over 2,300 small businesses across the region, many of which are proud members of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and clients of Prospera,” said Jose L. Gonzalez, director of government and industry relations for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. “The Don Quijote Awards represent the best of our community, and supporting this event is a priority for Walt Disney World.”
Celebrating Leadership and Entrepreneurial Excellence
For 28 consecutive years, the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera have partnered to spotlight exceptional entrepreneurial journeys through the Don Quijote Awards. Current board chairs Oscar Cristancho of the Hispanic Chamber and Adly Santiago of Prospera Central and Northeast Florida joined the celebration to recognize leaders who exemplify resilience and achievement within the Hispanic business community.
The evening was hosted by two distinguished masters of ceremony: Univision Emmy and Telly Award–winning journalist and meteorologist Jennifer Chang, alongside Univision Contigo host and longtime Sábado Gigante co-host Javier Romero.
Juan Amo, senior vice president and market executive at Bank of America, served as the 28th Event Chair and led the Don Quijote Awards Selection Committee.
“As this year’s chair, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the passion and perseverance behind these awards,” Amo said. “Our finalists exemplify courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to lifting others along the way. Their journeys strengthen our economy and reflect the values that define the Hispanic experience.”
2025 Don Quijote Award Recipients
The recipients of the 28th Don Quijote Awards are:
Hispanic Micro-Enterprise of the Year: Graceful Paws Pet Clinic, represented by owner Dr. Lynette Reyes
Hispanic Enterprise of the Year: Angels For Kids and Families, represented by owners Elizabeth and John Valencia
Professional of the Year: Rafael Caamaño, director of UCF Innovation Districts and Business Incubation Program, University of Central Florida
Excellence Award: Carlos Torres, chief deputy, Orange County Sheriff’s Office
Hispanic Community Champion Award: Jennifer Evins, president and CEO, United Arts of Central Florida
Lifetime Achievement Award: Ramon Ojeda
Legacy in Motion: Building the Future Together
Reflecting the theme “Legacy in Motion: Weaving Through the Future of Tomorrow,” the gala celebrated trailblazers whose leadership laid strong foundations that continue to uplift the Hispanic community today. Ten honorees were selected from more than 100 leaders, and the program included a special recognition honoring the legacy of Roberto Clemente, represented by the Roberto Clemente Foundation.
“Every person in this room represents a vital thread in the fabric we are building together,” said Pedro Turushina, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando. “Through leadership, service, and partnership, we are shaping a stronger Hispanic business community in Central Florida and beyond.”
Prospera Regional Vice President Katia Medina highlighted the organization’s milestone year, noting that the gala coincides with Prospera’s 30th anniversary in Central Florida.
“Our community’s spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation is vibrant and enduring,” Medina said. “We proudly carry forward the legacy planted by the pioneers who helped shape our path.”
Prospera President and CEO Augusto Sanabria added, “Their leadership laid the groundwork for the mission we continue today. Together, we are building a legacy that will benefit future generations.”
Guests enjoyed a culinary experience curated by renowned Disney Chef Luis Ruiz Guerra and the Disney Culinary team, followed by live Latin music from the band Caliente, which energized the dance floor late into the evening.
The gala was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, AdventHealth, Bank of America, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Travel + Leisure, Universal Destinations and Experiences, Florida Blue, OUC – The Reliable One, JCQ Services, JPMorgan Chase, and Sky Builders USA. Premier media partners included El Osceola Star, iHeartMedia, La Prensa, Telemundo, Univision, Florida National News, Communicate 360, and RTW Photography.
