Red Carpet Gala - 50 Most Influential Latinos in Silicon Valley

From sweats and ponytails to updo's and evening gowns...this was an event to remember! It takes a lot to get me in a dress, but this evening was worth it! (Proof of me all made up and in a dress coming soon :)! )

Well, I didn't win my category (athletics) of the "Top 50 Most Influential Latinos in Silicon Valley," but it was still a huge honor to be nominated and recognized for my influence on the girls and women in BAWSI's programs. Some football player named Joe Capp won, but I suppose he's pretty worthy of it, too :) He was very surprised to win and joked that the committee must have been comprised of a bunch of old people!It was truly amazing to be in the presence of the other nominees and winners. They also inducted those who have made a mark in history in the community through their fundraising efforts, political influence and advocacy, and service to the community into the Hall of Fame...from the late Cesar Chavez to Blanca Alvarez. It was empowering to witness so many committed to advancing the lives of Latinos in the Silicon Valley, only to inspire the rest of us to continue our work and service.

The rest of the evening was enchanting, with lots of fancy appetizers and cocktails (I did not partake in the consumption of the cocktails, by the way) and the dinner spread was delicious! My partner in crime who accompanied me to the event, Kiki DeMarquez, especially liked the bread pudding dessert. It warmed our tummies on the that particularly cold and breezy evening!

The evening ended with socializing and dancing, dancing, dancing! There was a live performance of Latin music by the group Kaweh, and then dancing to the beats of DJs Richard Torrez and Jaime Gonzalez. In all, it was a celebration of our roots, our commitment to our culture, and a time to have fun with family, friends, and colleagues who support one another in our efforts give Latinos a voice in our communities.