Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Louisiana Honored as 2021 Medium Chamber of the Year
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Louisiana Honored as 2021 Medium Chamber of the Year
VIVA NOLA Staff
Each year, The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) recognizes three chambers of commerce in the small, medium, and large categories for their contributions to the Hispanic business community.
This year’s award for the medium-sized chamber belongs to Louisiana. Mayra Pineda, the President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana attended the national conference held at Las Vegas, Nevada, and was honored with the award.
“The Chamber of the Year Award is definitely a proud moment for our organization, but it is also a reminder and motivation of our commitment moving forward as we focus our mission to build a more equitable community. We will continue to work tirelessly to erase the systemic barriers that are preventing our communities from thriving. Bridging the digital divide, providing access to capital and procurement opportunities, and building a pipeline of skilled workforce are critical to true economic development. These areas have been highlighted through COVID-19 where our Hispanic communities have been disproportionately impacted and, in my community, the added impact of Hurricane Ida.
- Mayra E. Pineda, President & CEO, HCCL
After many unknown obstacles created by the pandemic, HCCL has quickly and efficiently adjusted to a new style of programming. By navigating the complex and uncharted terrain of COVID-19, the HCCL has managed to uninterruptedly serve the Hispanic business community and operate in a new business environment. The advocacy and technical assistance this organization has provided has been invaluable during this difficult time. These efforts have gained the national recognition.
HCCL created a Bilingual Workforce Development Training Program offering the underserved community a safe space to learn and study at their own pace. This program enrolls more than 500 adult learners every year, and since its inception in 2008, the program has placed over 150 learners per year in full time jobs. Throughout the pandemic, this center has acted as a beacon of light providing critically needed assistance, education, and opportunity to the community.
“We are delighted to honor the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Louisiana and its successful efforts to ensure access to education and an equitable recovery for the Hispanic community. Their commitment to providing the small businesses with the tools to thrive, as well as serving underrepresented communities illustrates that in the wake of a cultural reckoning, meaningful change is possible,” said USHCC President and CEO, Ramiro Cavazos.
Congratulations to Mayra E. Pineda and the board of directors of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana for this important recognition!