Who We Are
The Hispanic Leaders Group is a coalition of leaders, community members, organizations, and allies united by a shared commitment to empowering the Hispanic and Latine community. By working collectively, we amplify voices, mobilize resources, and drive impactful change to break down barriers and create opportunities for growth and success.
Since our founding, Hispanic Leaders Group has brought together individuals and organizations across sectors to collaborate on key social, economic, and political issues, making us a powerful force for advocacy, civic engagement, and transformative action.
MISSION
The Hispanic Leaders Group promotes and supports the advancement of our vibrant Hispanic community through networking, education and advocacy to foster harmony and diversity in the greater St. Louis region.
40 Years of Leadership
For over four decades, the Hispanic Leaders Group has been at the forefront of creating opportunities and driving progress for the Hispanic and Latine community. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a trusted and influential coalition that unites leaders, organizations, and allies across industries and sectors.
Over the years, we have:
Mobilized thousands of individuals and organizations to advocate on critical issues.
Advanced civic engagement through voter education, leadership development, and outreach programs.
Built lasting partnerships that amplify our community’s cultural and economic contributions.
Inspired new generations of leaders who continue to drive progress and innovation.
This rich legacy of leadership is both a testament to our community’s resilience and a reminder of the work still to be done. With 40 years of experience behind us, we are more committed than ever to shaping a future of equity, empowerment, and success for all.
Why We Exist
The Hispanic and Latine community is a vital part of the nation’s history and its future. Yet, systemic challenges persist—limiting access to resources, opportunities, and representation. The Hispanic Leaders Group exists to confront these obstacles by uniting individuals and organizations to create a powerful platform for advocacy, leadership, and action.
BOARD
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BEN MOLINA
Chairman of the Board
CORTEX -
Hector Vega
Vice-Chair of the Board
Build-A-Bear HQ -
Gabriela Baeza-Stout
Treasurer
Community Leader -
Nikki Martinez
Recording Secretary
St. Louis Community Foundation -
Justina Coronel
Correspondence Secretary
KSDK -
Alderwoman Daniela Velázquez
City of St. Louis
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Esmeralda Aharon
St Louis University
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German Gonzalez-Herrera
Gonzales Herrera Law Firm
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Gabriela Cornelius
Community Leader
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Saida Cornejo Zuñiga
WEPOWER
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Suzy Barbosa-McBride
First Mid
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Raffi Mikaelian
FCB Banks
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Rene Iannotti
John Burroughs School
Join use in shaping the future of our community!
Our work is built on the idea that when we lift up every member of our community, we create opportunities for education, economic advancement, cultural representation, and social justice. We don’t just talk – we act. Through events, policy dialogues, community mobilization, and scholarship initiatives, we’re ensuring that the Hispanic/Latino voice in St. Louis is strong, visible, and respected.
We’re Looking for:
Enthusiastic & community-minded individuals who want to step up and help amplify Latino voices.
Civic- and policy-focused thinkers who are interested in engaging in dialogue, shaping initiatives, influencing decisions, and lifting up our community.
Collaborative team players ready to join our general meetings, partner events, advocacy efforts, and outreach programs.
Diverse backgrounds and experiences — whether you’ve been involved in community service, policy, education, business, or simply have the passion and drive — you belong here.
What You’ll Do
Participate in HLG’s signature initiatives like our annual scholarship program, Hispanic Capitol Day, civic-engagement events, educational programming, and more.
Connect with community leaders, policymakers, organizations and fellow engaged citizens.
Help elevate issues and concerns that affect the Hispanic/Latino community — from representation and education to economic access and cultural empowerment.
Be part of a community that believes in building a future where “mi voz, mi gente, mi espacio, mi St. Louis” becomes a lived reality.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re energized by the idea of civic service, policy work, and uplifting the Latino community, we welcome you to join us. Please submit your interest or connect with us through our website. Together we can shape a St. Louis where every voice is heard and every person has the chance to lead.