Honoring the leaders shaping East Texas and beyond 

Story and photos by Joycelyne Fadojutimi 

The Tyler Hispanic Business Alliance proudly hosted the 2025 Hispanic Achievers and Business Leaders Awards Luncheon, a sold-out celebration honoring leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact across East Texas. The event opened with a warm welcome and an uplifting invocation by Pastor David Ramos from Grace Español. 

A Year of Growth and Impact 

THBA President and CEO Nancy Rangel highlighted a year marked by expansion, stronger partnerships, and increased service to families and entrepreneurs through programs such as the Entrepreneurship Academy, Women’s Conference, Small Business Workshops, Workforce Training, Business Coaching, and more. 

Nationally, the Hispanic community continues to drive economic growth with a $3.2 trillion Latino GDP, 5 million Hispanic-owned businesses, and rapid workforce expansion. Locally, Hispanics remain one of the fastest-growing demographics in Tyler, contributing significantly to business, education, construction, and healthcare sectors. 

2025 Award Recipients 

This year’s honorees represent excellence, resilience, and the spirit of Adelante—moving forward together: 

• Emerging Business of the Year – Los Antojitos by Maria 
• Outstanding Business of the Year – JV Furniture (Juan Villalobos) 
• Restaurant Business of the Year – Junior’s Taqueria 
• Community Business of the Year – VeraBank 
• Professional Services Business of the Year – Galvan Carpet & Tile Cleaning 
• Woman-Owned Business of the Year – Law Office of Belinda Arroyo 
• Professional of the Year – Elizabeth Gomez, Principal, Bonner Elementary 
• Community Impact Leader of the Year – Gilbert Urbina, Hispanic American Association of East Texas 

Each award recipient has made a meaningful difference through entrepreneurship, public service, education, and community leadership. 

President’s Adelante Award 

A special moment of the afternoon recognized Honorable Mayor Don Warren with the President’s Adelante Award for over six years of dedicated service on the THBA Board and for his steadfast commitment to unity, trust, and community development. As this marked his final year as mayor, the recognition was especially significant. 

Finally 

The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, members, and guests. Attendees were encouraged to continue celebrating Hispanic excellence and supporting the leaders shaping the future of the region. The Tyler HBA extends warm wishes for a joyful season and looks forward to its next community event.