04/21/2026
LATINO LEADERSHIP RISES IN ALBANY: UNITY, POWER, AND PURPOSE AT THE SOMOS CONFERENCE
By Fatima A Velasquez Calvache
Albany, Friday, April 17th New York 2026
The welcome cocktail reception hosted by Governor Kathy Hochul at the renowned SOMOS Conference marked a powerful moment of unity, leadership, and forward-thinking for the Latino community.
More than a ceremonial gathering, the evening reflected the growing influence of Hispanic leaders across business, government, and community sectors. It served as a dynamic platform where conversations evolve into policy, and where representation transforms into real impact.
The significance of the event was further elevated by the presence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whose participation highlighted the critical role Latino leadership plays in shaping the city’s future. His presence was underscored by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, reinforcing a message of collaboration between city and state leadership, and recognizing the Hispanic community as a vital force in today’s political and economic landscape.
Among the distinguished attendees was the Multicultural Chamber of Commerce delegation, led by President Frank Garcia.
The delegation included influential leaders such as Yenisei Bell, President Women’s Construction, Jairo Guzman, President Mexican Coalition Pastor Jose Mateo, Multicultural Chamber of Commerce, Francisco Marte, President Bodega & Small Business Group, their collective presence symbolized the strength of multicultural collaboration and the importance of uniting diverse ethnic chambers under a shared vision of economic empowerment and policy advocacy.
A standout moment of the conference was the participation of Yenisei Bell, who served as a panelist in the forum “Funding Her Future:
Access to Capital, Bias & Policy Reform for Women Entrepreneurs.” Hosted by Senator Luis Sepúlveda and Senator Lea Webb, and moderated by Meiling Aquino, the discussion addressed systemic barriers while advancing solutions to expand access to capital for women, particularly women of color.
As part of a broader multicultural business coalition, leaders emphasized a unified commitment to supporting immigrant communities, including green card holders who are legally contributing to the economy.
The goal is clear: to ensure access to resources, business opportunities, and financial growth.
The SOMOS Conference continues to stand as a vital space where the Latino community can engage directly with elected officials, voice concerns, and influence decisions that shape their future. Participation in these spaces is no longer optional, it is essential.
Global Impact Media Alliance News Platform and INSPIRE Magazine remain committed to amplifying these conversations, elevating Latino leadership, and connecting communities to the opportunities that define tomorrow.
For media inquiries, partnerships, and advertising opportunities:
New York. 347-400-0783
New Jersey. 646-996-4126
Texas. 972-786-5379
Florida. 646-319-0788
Puerto Rico 787- 428-6064
🌐 www.global-media-alliance.com
📧 [email protected]
[email protected]
Global Impact Media Alliance & INSPIRE Magazine
