Mujer Hispana Connecticut recognizes Latina trailblazers across state
Latina community leaders and entrepreneurs across Connecticut were recognized Sunday at the annual Mujer Hispana Connecticut Awards. Fourteen Latina women were honored for their leadership, service and contributions to their communities.
The celebration, held in Berlin, brought together residents, advocates and business owners to recognize women who have helped uplift Latina voices and support families throughout Connecticut.
Among the honorees was Mónica Caballero, an immigrant from El Salvador, family content creator and founder of Conexión Cafecito, an organization that uses social media to highlight Latina-owned businesses and entrepreneurs across the state.
Caballero said the recognition reflects her commitment to serving her community.
“We come to this country to have better opportunities but to give back to the communities. Give back with the money economically and culture.”
Caballero said the award motivates her to continue her work.
“Grow in all the ways in business, in personal, in family so this is very important to this award. It represents my mission to continue to do what I do.”
The annual awards were founded by Yanina Cuentas, who immigrated from Peru and saw firsthand the importance of Latina leadership in helping families navigate education, housing and other resources.
Cuentas said this year’s honorees exemplify service to their communities and families.
“They are being recognized for their qualities and how they work with their communities and their families,” she said, translated from her native Spanish.
The awards program has been held for 15 years. Cuentas said she continues to be inspired by the community that has grown around the event.
“I say ‘Wow!’ that after 15 years, my dreams are coming true, creating a beautiful community of Hispanic women that support other women,” she said.
In addition to the 14 honorees, Cuentas was also recognized during the event for her contributions to the Latina community in Connecticut.
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