The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Latina Leadership Institute (LLI) Program is off to an inspiring 10th anniversary cohort, creating leadership development, connection, and civic engagement opportunities. This year’s cohort is proudly led by Co-Chairs Lily Garcia and Laura Elizabeth Mayes, alongside a dynamic and dedicated Steering Committee, including 2025 Co-Chair Elects Estrellita Garcia-Diaz and Stephanie Melchor. The full Steering Committee includes Marivel Arauza, Brandy Weitzel, Cristina Bazaldúa, Danielle Garcia, Vanessa Vasquez, Andrea De La Cruz, Iliana Castillo Daily, Nadia Ramon, Priscilla Hernandez, and Tessa Benavides-Cooper.
Class Day 1: Honoring the Legacy & Personal Strengths
The opening day set the tone for a journey rooted in legacy and led by the community. Cohort 1 alumna Erika Prosper Nirenberg delivered an impassioned keynote, reminding attendees that each new class builds upon the foundation laid by fierce, visionary Latinas before them.
Held at the Texas Public Radio headquarters, the day offered a blend of introspection and inspiration. Leadership coach Mari Weymouth of People Whisper Solutions led a session guiding participants to identify and embrace their unique strengths. The virtual visit from the authors of Mamá Didn’t Raise a Pendeja brought laughter, resilience, and powerful reminders of the generational wisdom passed down through dichos.
Class Day 2: LLI at the Texas Capitol
From the gallery floors of the Texas Legislature to meaningful conversations with state leaders, Class Day 2 brought civic engagement to life at the Texas Capitol.
The day began with proclamations commemorating LLI’s Decade of Empowerment on the Texas House and Senate floors, where cohort members were honored for their commitment to public service and leadership.
The afternoon featured a robust “Policy-Making in Action” panel at the REJ Conference Center and insightful remarks from State Rep. Josey Garcia, Lobbyist Lorena Campos, and Commissioner Catarina Gonzales. The cohort also learned to pursue a state-level appointment from the Governor’s Office.
Community Celebration and Commitment
The LLI program received a significant boost during the 96th Annual San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Gala. With the incredible support of attendees, led by Sonya Medina Williams and Ramiro Cavazos, more than $60,000 was raised to support Latina leaders’ continued growth and development.
The cohort and the more than 300 LLI graduates were recognized during the event, symbolizing the deep connection between community investment and leadership cultivation.
To learn more about the Latina Leadership Institute (LLI), visit www.sahcc.org/latina-leadership-institute.
