AfriFest 2025
Event
LOEF Young Latino Professionals Celebrates Latino Excellence in the Arts at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Cincinnati, July 9, 2025 — The LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) and its Young Latino Professionals (YLP) initiative hosted a dazzling evening of cultural celebration and community impact titled “Latino Industry Leader Night – Celebrating Latino Excellence in the Arts” at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. The event brought together vibrant voices from across the arts to showcase the depth and creativity of the Latino community.
🎭 A Night of Inspiration and Creativity
The event featured an accomplished panel of five Latino artists whose work spans genres and generations:
- Mauricio Espinosa, an internationally recognized poet, translator, and educator at the University of Cincinnati, shared insights on literary expression and language.
- Mary Leonard, filmmaker, writer, and UC film professor, reflected on storytelling through visual media and community engagement.
- Jasmine Luna Villa, Mt. St. Joseph alumna specializing in photography and ceramics, offered a lens into visual art and identity.
- Gabriel Martinez, contemporary dancer and choreographer, captivated the audience with his perspective on movement and cultural expression.
- Victor Velez, percussionist, poet, author, radio host, and playwright, delivered powerful reflections on rhythm, voice, and performance.
🎶 Special Musical Performances
The evening was elevated by live performances from special guests:
- Violinist Dylan Firlie, Principal Second Violinist in the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra and member of the Mason Symphony and Ohio Valley Symphony, charmed the crowd with a riveting short concert.
- Beloved traditional Mexican singer Ana Carmen Becerra, “La Dama del Pueblo,” enchanted listeners with soulful renditions celebrating heritage and heart.
🎉 Celebration of Local talent
The event also celebrated Camilo Idrobo, official photographer of LOEF_YLP, for his success at the Mirada Corta Film festival at Ciudad de Mexico where his short film “Cruza el Valle” [Cross the Valley] was elected semi-finalist.
🎉 Community Support and Partnership Announcements
Thanks to generous support from sponsors including Patricia Ryan, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, Kyrie Owen of Rhinegeist, Alejandra Flores of Unataza Coffee, Henry Rivas of Cincinnatismo, Karla Boldery of La Mega, Raquel Sotelo of Artesana, and Ana Carmen Becerra, the event radiated with collaboration and pride.
LOEF-YLP announced a new partnership with Rhinegeist Brewery and Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. Rhinegeist will sponsor LOEF-YLP events for the remainder of 2025 and gifted 40 complimentary play tickets, 10 of which were raffled at the event. Moreover, the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company will host exclusive pre-opening screenings of its new productions for LOEF-YLP members.
🌍 Building Bridges Beyond the Stage
Among the enthusiastic attendees was the team from Apnet, extending an invitation to AfriFest Cincy: Taste of Africa, held July 19—signaling even broader intercultural exchange and unity.
The evening was a powerful reminder that Latino voices in the arts are not only thriving but leading. LOEF continues to foster these voices through meaningful connection, celebration, and opportunities for growth.
Latino Student Leaders were Honored At NKU Alegría
Highland Heights, Ky. – April 26, 2025 – Northern Kentucky University (NKU) hosted NKU Alegría, a vibrant celebration honoring Latino students who have made a significant impact during the 2024-2025 academic year. The event recognized outstanding achievements, leadership, and dedication to fostering a supportive community for fellow students.
Maggie Perez, President of the LULAC NKU Student Council, and her sister, Melissa Perez, extended the invitation to Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati, and Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF). Family members and fellow council members joined the festivities as the Office of Latino Student Initiatives (LSI) celebrated student excellence.
During the ceremony, Maggie Perez was honored with the LSI Senior Award, recognizing her academic achievements and leadership. Melissa Perez received the LAMP Mentor of the Year Award for her commitment to guiding and uplifting her peers. Additionally, Dayna Bernardo was presented with a Service Award, while Katherine Jantes earned the Impact Award for her contributions to student success.
Adding to the significance of the evening, LSI invited former director Tiburcio Lince to present awards to graduating seniors, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance.
The event allowed networking where Laura Moese had the opportunity to present LOEF’s mission and its ongoing efforts to support Latino students to Brendon Thompson, NKU’s Vice President of Student Affairs, and Nicole Froning, Manager of NKU Student Affairs Enrollment.
The event was a resounding success, bringing together students, mentors, and advocates to celebrate the passion and commitment of Latino student leaders. Through recognition, encouragement, and shared achievements, NKU Alegría highlighted the powerful impact of community and educational empowerment.
Latino Industry leaders Night
Cincinnati, March 20, 2025 – The LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) and its Young Latino Professional Network (YLPN) held a highly anticipated Industry Leaders Night at Ritchie & Phillips Jewelers. The event, which sold out in advance, brought together an impressive lineup of speakers and attendees to foster leadership and empowerment within the Latino professional community.
The panel featured distinguished leaders, including Violeta Mendoza Gomez from Caruso USA, alongside Juan Bonilla and Mireilly Rosado Bonilla from Procter & Gamble. These industry experts engaged in an in-depth discussion on leadership, empowerment, and career advancement for Latino professionals, sparking insightful conversations among the participants.
In addition to the panel discussion, the event served as a valuable platform for networking and dialogue. Over 30 Latino professionals and senior college students, representing a diverse array of professions, attended the evening. Their presence highlighted the vibrant and growing network of Latino talent in Ohio.
The success of this event underscores the vital role that LOEF and YLPN play in supporting the professional development of the Latino community. By creating spaces for meaningful interaction and shared learning, they continue to empower the next generation of leaders.
LULAC and LOEF @the ELL foundation Annual Recognition Breakfast
Highland Heights, Feb 27, 2025 – The English Language Learning (ELL) Foundation held its Annual Recognition Breakfast at Northern Kentucky University’s (NKU) Student Union, under the inspiring motto “Leaping Forward: Global Voices, Local Impact.” This event is a heartfelt celebration of the exceptional accomplishments of bright English language (EL) students, caring educators, and community organizations that have made significant contributions.
Every year, the ELL Foundation invites a diverse group of donors, students, educators, and community friends to join in honoring the successes and resilience of EL students overcoming adversities. This year was no exception, as the community gathered to celebrate and recognize those who have made impactful strides.
During the Recognition Breakfast, the Foundation awarded honors to the Students of the Year, Educator of the Year, Community Ally of the Year, and the prestigious Make a Difference Award. These accolades are a testament to the dedication and hard work of those involved in promoting and supporting English language learning.
The event also serves as the main fundraising effort for the ELL Foundation Scholarship program, which provides opportunities for English language learners to pursue higher education at accredited area colleges and universities. This year’s breakfast was pivotal in raising the necessary funds to continue this crucial support.
Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati; Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation; and Maider Marin McGee, LULAC and LOEF board member were in attendance to Support Rosa Moreno, LOEF Director of Higher Education with ELL. Their presence underscored the partnership between the ELL Foundation and these prominent organizations, as they came together to celebrate the accomplishments of LOEF and LULAC council members who were recognized during the event.
LULAC and LOEF congratulate to all the honored students and Professional in this Event.
The Annual Recognition Breakfast remains a cherished tradition, embodying the spirit of unity and progress, and highlighting the powerful impact of community support on the lives of English language learners.
St Valentine @ Rising Star Schools
St Valentine @ Rising Star Schools
Cincinnati, February 13, 2024 – The spirit of love and community was in full bloom at Rising Star School as they hosted a St. Valentine’s Day celebration, with food and gifts generously sponsored by Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF). The vibrant event brought joy to 30 pre-K, kindergarten, and first-grade students, as Moese participated by reading stories and coloring with the young attendees.
Following the festivities, LOEF Board member Victoria Garland and Moese continued their tradition of serving as translators during the parent-teacher meetings, a valuable service they provide every quarter to ensure clear communication and support for the families. The St. Valentine’s event at Rising Star School highlighted the strong bond between the school and LOEF, as well as their commitment to creating a nurturing and inclusive space for all students and their families.
Viva Cincy Restaurant Soft Opening
Viva Cincy
Cincinnati, February 12, 2025 – Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), participated in the soft opening of Viva Cincy, a new restaurant in West Chester. Moese wanted to support Rosalba Arreaga, and her son Tony, who is an active member of the LOEF Young Latino Professionals.
The soft opening was a festive occasion, filled with excitement and optimism. The event provided a platform for attendees to celebrate the new venture and extend their well-wishes to Rosalba and Tony. “We wish Rosalba and Tony great success in their new endeavor,” stated Laura Moese. “Viva Cincy is a wonderful addition to our community, and we are excited to see it thrive.”
With the support of the LOEF and the local community, Viva Cincy is poised to become a popular spot, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of its founders.
LOEF@ Rising Start School 3Bs celebration
Cincinnati, January 17, 2025 – Dr. Jackson, principal of Rising Stars School, invited Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), to the 3Bs award ceremony. The event honored pre-K, kindergarten, and first-grade students with the Be Kind awards, recognizing their efforts to embody kindness in their daily interactions.
Rising Stars School, which serves a significant number of Latino students, has long been a pillar of inclusivity and support for the community. The presence of Laura Moese highlighted the ongoing partnership between the school and LOEF, reinforcing their shared commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for all students. The 3Bs award ceremony was a joyous occasion, filled with pride and inspiration.
Rising Stars School is one of the schools where Laura Moese and Victoria Garland, LOEF Board member, volunteer as translators, ensuring that parents could fully participate in the school conferences. Their dedication to bridging communication gaps underscores LOEF’s mission to empower and support the Latino community through education and engagement.
LOEF Young Latino Professionals Inaugurate 2025 with a Meet and Greet Celebration
Cincinnati, January 23, 2025 – The LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) Young Latino Professionals launched the new year with a vibrant meet and greet celebration at Richter & Philips Jewlers, marking their first official event for 2025. The event served as a platform for young Latino professionals to network, share experiences, and foster a sense of community.
The gathering, held in Cincinnati, was filled with enthusiastic attendees eager to connect and collaborate. It provided a unique opportunity for participants to build relationships, exchange ideas, and create meaningful connections that will support their professional growth throughout the year.
This inaugural event signifies LOEF’s commitment to empowering the Latino community by offering spaces for young professionals to thrive and succeed. With such a promising start, the LOEF Young Latino Professionals are set to make significant strides in 2025, fostering a robust and supportive network for the future.
Cincinnati’s Latino Leaders Unite to Propose Partnership with City Hall
Cincinnati, February 4, 2025 – In a united front to uplift the Latino community, Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation and Alfonso Cornejo, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce USA presented a transformative proposal to the Cincinnati City Hall. The proposal aims to forge a partnership that will bolster support for the Latino community in the region.
The event saw a large turnout of Latino professionals who showed their support for the initiative. The atmosphere was electric with hope and unity as the proposal had a good reception.
Highlighting the urgency of the initiative Mayra Jackson, Executive Director of the Immigrant and Refugee Law Center, delivered a compelling presentation on immigration, showcasing the significant progress made so far and underscoring the dire need for continued support to navigate the evolving challenges. Her informative section resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity in these changing times.