Reflecting on my tenure as the Chair of the Hispanic Latino Franchise Leadership Council (HLFLC) of the International Franchise Association, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to launch and contribute to this incredible group. Meeting every one of you has been the most valuable and meaningful experience. You have all become family to me, and I am honored to have served alongside such passionate individuals dedicated to advancing Latinos in the franchising sector Louie Picazo, CFE Roberto Litwak, MBA, CFE Felipe Osorio Marco A. S.Erika Enciso.
As we progress, I am excited to announce that Javier N. Solis, CFE, will take over as the incoming Chair: his leadership and the fantastic leaders within the council promise to elevate the council to new heights.
Our mission—to provide uniquely Hispanic perspectives to franchisees and franchisors through meaningful discussions and networking opportunities, foster awareness, understanding, and access to franchise opportunities for Hispanic/Latino entrepreneurs, amplify the success of current franchise owners, and engage future franchisees through education and other resources—is more critical than ever. I am confident that the HLFLC will continue to thrive under Javier's leadership and achieve great success.
I am incredibly grateful for your contributions. Each of you has played a significant role in this committee's work, and your support, knowledge, passion, and work ethic have been invaluable. The friendships, encouragement, and community within this group are unique and hard to find, and I feel deeply honored to have been a part of it with all of you. Most importantly, I will forever cherish the kindness, patience, and grace you all showed me during a difficult and painful loss. ❤️
Though my time as the HLFLC chair has ended, my commitment to the council and its mission remains strong. I will continue to support the council in any way I can, offering my insights and experiences whenever needed. The committee's future successes are assured, and I eagerly anticipate the milestones we will achieve together under Javier's leadership.
I want to thank the International Franchise Association Matthew Haller and IFA's Diversity Institute, along with David Smith, Richard Snow, MBA, Paul Pickett, CFE, and Earsa Jackson Robin Gagnon, MBA, CFE, CBI for this opportunity and for being such incredible leaders and partners of the Affinity Group Councils. This has undoubtedly been one of the highlights of my career, and I look forward to witnessing and contributing to the council's ongoing journey of success.