Hispanicize, the epicenter of Latino content creators just wrapped its 9th annual conference in Miami. The 3-day conclave was filled with some of the most prominent and creative Latino influencers, journalists and artists meeting, learning, sharing and celebrating all things Latino culture. With a variety of workshops, presentations, performances and awards shows, the conference has become a must-attend event. This year’s Hispanicize did not disappoint. ‘LLERO was on the ground and curated some of the more noteworthy moments.
1. Special Invited Guests
Industry conferences often tout a number of high profile special invited guests. This year Hispanicize turned that on its ear in the best possible way. One of its special guests were a contingency of students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. The group of students were learning and sharing during the festivities. In a touching moment, they were provided special welcome and an overwhelming round of applause during the Positive Impact Awards.
2. LeJuan James
Funnyman and social media sensation LeJuan James was in the house. The recipient of the 2018 Latinovator Award. James was on hand to accept the award, but also sat for questions about how he got started, what goes into the content he creates and what keeps him going. The entertainer showed a thoughtful and contemplative side which clearly sent the message that being funny takes hard work and hustle.
3. Julian Castro Sure Looks Presidential
Another attendee at the Positive Impact awards was former Mayor of San Antonio Julian Castro. Castro provided the key note address during the awards ceremony. It’s no secret that Castro is rumored to be a potential candidate to run for President in 2020. While he has been coy about a run, his key note address sure did seem Presidential.
4. Daddy’s Make Their Presence Known
The conference has long highlighted a variety of influencers, from food and mommy bloggers, to comedians and fashion and beauty creators. However, one area which was absent was for the men. Not this year, a panel entitled “Don’t Forget About the Dads! The New Game Changers.” Featuring some of the most prominent daddy bloggers such as Juan Alanis from JuanofWords, Ozzy Rosenberg from FilmFoodieOzzy, comedian Jay Mendoza and Jeff Segura from DaddyStyleDiaries. The panel chronicled the journeys of these fathers, which included how they got started in the space, the unique challenges of being a Latino dad, as well as the overwhelming joys.
5. Tecla Awards
The Tecla Awards which honor Latino content creators in categories ranging from best sports blogger, to best digital journalist and podcast closed out the week’s festivities. Hosted by Jenny Lorenzo who brought her A-Game a let her character “Cuban Abuela” do the talking. Abuela had the room in the palm of her hands as she doled out Tecla’s to standouts such as RaqC winner for Best Entertainment and LifeStyle Creator and Latinos Out Loud winner for Best Podcast. The night was punctuated with a virtuoso performance from Diana Fuentes.
6. Fonseca
It wouldn’t be a gathering of Latinos without some form of music. Aside from the number of special performances in the Hispanicize La Musica Lounge, Colombian crooner Fonseca graced the stage for a performance on Day 2 of the event. As is customary the 5 time Latin Grammy winner brought everyone to their feet with his headlining set.
For a look at more of the action check out our Hispanicize 2018 Photo Gallery.