The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC) continued its tradition of honoring sustainability trailblazers at the annual Green Visionary & Sustainability Awards Lunch / Conference held on Friday, August 18th. The event served as a platform to recognize remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions towards fostering a more sustainable planet. With a diverse lineup of speakers, panelists, and awardees, the event underscored the commitment of South Florida’s community to drive positive change.
The event commenced with Juan Fernandez Barquín, the Court Clerk of Miami-Dade County, delivering inspiring opening remarks. His words set the tone for the day, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainability goals. The keynote address was delivered by Miami-Dade Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins. Her insights shed light on the role of local government in supporting sustainable initiatives and the crucial steps required to build a greener future for South Florida.
A highlight of the event was the engaging panel discussion moderated by Frankie Ruiz, the Chief Wellness Officer at the City of Miami. The panel featured distinguished individuals who shared their expertise, experiences, and insights on sustainability. The panelists included Moe Hachem, Javier Sanchez, Irela Bague, Teddy Lhoutellier, and Juan Goritti. Their discussions covered a wide range of topics, from innovative green practices to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The Awards ceremony was a moment of celebration as well-deserved individuals received recognition for their exceptional contributions to sustainability.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava: was presented with the Eco-innovation award, acknowledging her dedication to promoting innovative approaches for a more sustainable county.
The Green Visionary Awards, a prestigious honor, were presented to five exceptional individuals who have made a lasting impact on sustainability in their respective fields:
- Javier Sanchez: Recognized for his efforts with the Miami Dolphins, Javier Sanchez has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental stewardship within the sports industry.
- Miami-Dade Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins: Commissioner Cohen Higgins’ dedication to advocating for sustainable policies at the local level has been instrumental in shaping South Florida’s green future.
- Carolina Vester: Hailing from the City of Coral Gables, Carolina Vester’s contributions to advancing sustainable urban development have been invaluable.
- Josenrique Cueto: Working with the Miami-Dade County Dept. of Transportation and Public Works, Josenrique Cueto has played a vital role in promoting sustainable transportation solutions.
- Nestor Penalver: Nestor Penalver of Postal Center International has exemplified how businesses can incorporate sustainable practices into their operations, leading by example.
The SFLHCC’s commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility within the South Florida community is evident through its recognition of these outstanding individuals. The event served as a reminder that by working collectively, we can drive positive change and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
For those seeking to learn more about the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and its initiatives, visit their official website at www.sflhcc.com or contact them at 305-534-1903. The Green Visionary & Sustainability Awards Lunch / Conference stands as a testament to the power of local action in shaping a greener, more sustainable world.
