It’s About Face

Mayela and Orlando Rosales arrived in Naples from their native Venezuela in 1996 and four years later began building their media company, which today includes Azteca America, a Southwest Florida television channel, and D’Latinos Magazine.  It’s a great success story—one I learned more about while interviewing them for an article earlier this year. And their accomplishments undoubtedly have inspired many others of diverse ethnic heritage to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. 

Mayela and Orlando told me many other local residents from different backgrounds also have made a difference at work or in our community but have not received much public recognition. Before we wrapped up our discussion, Mayela offered up an excellent idea: Identify those exceptional individuals and businesses and recognize them in both D’Latinos and Gulfshore Business.

The staffs from both magazines began meeting, and we promptly forged a partnership that has yielded what is now known as the Face Awards, which will be presented in print and at a gala in January.

Our publications will recognize businesses and outstanding individuals who reflect and celebrate positive values and the ethnic and racial diversity within our community. The Face Awards—named for the rainbow of faces we see at work and around town—will recognize outstanding nominees in each of the following categories: Large Company, Small Business, Nonprofit/Philanthropy, Medical, Education, and Arts and Culture. We welcome businesses and individuals to nominate candidates at www.faceswfl.com, where you’ll find instructions and other relevant information.

Of course I must note that other local organizations embrace and celebrate diversity, for example, Hodges University, which hosts an annual Diversity Festival.

For those of you who submit nominations, thank you for helping these inspiring souls shine and provide encouragement for others.