News

Latinas Unidas is delighted to highlight one of the special moments you’ll experience at the S.T.A.R. Awards 2025 — Reconocimiento Special Edition: a beautiful cultural performance by 16-year-old dancer Ella Callahan, a young artist whose talent and heritage embody the spirit of this celebration.

Meet the Artist: Ella Callahan

At just 16 years old, Ella Callahan has already built an impressive artistic journey. A student at the Aquinas Institute of Rochester, Ella began dancing when she was only two years old and has continued to grow as a versatile, passionate performer. Her training spans multiple dance styles, and her talent has led her to stages across Mexico, the United States, Canada, and Ireland.

What makes Ella’s performance especially meaningful to us is the pride she carries in her Mexican–Irish heritage. This blend of cultures deeply informs her artistry, allowing her to bring not only technical skill but also cultural beauty, emotion, and heart to every performance.

Her presence at the S.T.A.R. Awards is a tribute to the power of multicultural identity and the ways in which young leaders and artists embody and carry forward the traditions of our communities.

A Celebration of Culture, Storytelling & Heritage

Before Ella performs, her mother, Diana Chapoy de Callahan, will offer a brief introduction to the cultural and historical roots of the music and dance selection. Diana’s reflections will highlight the shared values, rhythms, and stories that connect Ella’s performance to the broader tapestry of Latino culture, enriching the experience for all who attend.

Together, Diana and Ella will create a moment that blends family, heritage, and artistry, perfectly aligning with the spirit of the S.T.A.R. Awards, where we honor not only leadership but the cultural expressions that unite us.

Together, Celebrating our Rich Heritage and So Much More

This year’s S.T.A.R. Awards promises an unforgettable afternoon filled with:

✨ Inspiring stories of community leaders
✨ A keynote address from Maj. Brandy Soublet
✨ A red-carpet and photo booth experience
✨ Professional photography and behind-the-scenes coverage
✨ A warm, celebratory atmosphere filled with community pride
✨ And a special performance by Ella Callahan!

Tickets: LatinasUnidas.org
Event Date: December 11, 2025
Venue: Irondequoit Country Club

We look forward to celebrating culture, community, and excellence. Together.

 

Latinas Unidas is proud to present the emcees for this year’s S.T.A.R. Awards — Reconocimiento Special Edition: the talented, charismatic, and community-driven cousins Jessica Del Valle and Anabelle Del Valle, affectionately known as “Las Chicas Del Valle.”

For the first time, these two talented cousins will share the stage as co-emcees, bringing their warmth, charisma, and deep community roots to one of our most meaningful celebrations of the year.

Anabelle Del Valle: A Voice for Community & Connection

Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, Anabelle Del Valle began her journey in the United States in the early 2000s and has since built a remarkable career grounded in service, communication, and community empowerment. Her academic path took her from Monroe Community College, where she studied Human Services, to SUNY Brockport, where she expanded her studies into Hispanic Literature.

Professionally, Anabelle has spent more than a decade at PathStone Corporation, where she currently serves as the Director of Resident Services. In this role, she develops programming that supports residents' well-being while fostering strong community engagement, work that reflects her lifelong commitment to uplifting others.

Anabelle is also a familiar voice on Rochester radio. She spent four years hosting En Tiempo Real on Power 97.1 FM and continues to collaborate with the station today. Her extensive volunteer work as an emcee, including cultural events, pageants, concerts, and community celebrations, showcases her versatility, poise, and passion for communication. Her voice-over work further expands her presence as a vibrant storyteller and connector in our community.

Jessica Del Valle: A Leader in Communications & Cultural Uplift

Jessica Del Valle is a dynamic communicator, proud Latina, and community builder known for her authenticity, creativity, and leadership. A graduate of SUNY Brockport with a degree in Communication, Media, and Theatre, Jessica has worked with major global brands, including JP Morgan, Disney, and Verizon, gaining expertise in marketing, communications, branding, and public relations.

After traveling and living abroad, Jessica returned to Rochester to continue her commitment to community empowerment. She first joined the Ibero-American Development Corporation as Site Manager of the International Plaza, and now serves as the Marketing and Development Manager for the Ibero-American Action League. In this role, she leads fundraising, donor relations, and signature events that uplift and empower the Latino community.

Jessica also brings a strong media presence. Her volunteer work includes En Tiempo Real, El Coqueteo de las Favoritas, and the En el Medio Media Show on Poder 97.1 FM. Beyond media, she serves as a founding member of both the HSCD and the Dominican Day Steering Committee, helping elevate Dominican culture in Rochester.

Her natural ability to bring people together shines in everything she does, and will undoubtedly shine on stage at the S.T.A.R. Awards.

A Dynamic Duo Ready to Shine

Together, Las Chicas Del Valle bring a blend of professionalism, authenticity, and cultural pride. Their shared passion for storytelling, community service, and elevating Latino voices makes them the perfect hosts for a celebration that honors leadership, impact, and unity.

We are truly thrilled to welcome Jessica and Anabelle Del Valle as the emcees of the S.T.A.R. Awards 2025 — Reconocimiento Special Edition. Their presence promises a memorable afternoon filled with energy, heart, and inspiration.

Join Us on December 11!

Be part of this unforgettable celebration featuring:

✨ Inspiring awardee stories
✨ Our Keynote Speaker, Maj. Brandy Soublet
✨ A special cultural performance
✨ A red-carpet experience & professional photography
✨ A beautifully decorated holiday venue
✨ Delicious lunch selections
✨ Meaningful networking with leaders and friends

Tickets: LatinasUnidas.org
Date: December 11, 2025
Venue: Irondequoit Country Club

Come celebrate excellence, leadership, and community, with Las Chicas Del Valle leading the way.

We have the pleasure to introduce the 2025 ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! Rally Madrina and .C.: Ivelisse Orona!

Ivelisse Orona is a faith-driven business coach, speaker, and author passionate about empowering individuals and families to build lasting legacies. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Rochester, NY, she is a proud mother of three boys, a Minister, and an Entrepreneur. With over 20 years of community-focused work, she has dedicated her life to mentoring, leadership development, and equipping others to pursue purpose with confidence.

Ivelisse holds seminary training, certifications in Child Development, and Family Development Credentials from the University of Connecticut. As a Certified Coach and member of the International Coaching Federation, she brings a wealth of experience in business, leadership, and faith-based mentorship. She owned and operated a successful family childcare center for a decade before serving as a Department Director at The Center for Dispute Settlement. Now, as the Founder of The Circle, she equips leaders with the tools to integrate faith, business, and inclusivity into their work.

Through her efforts, Ivelisse aims to inspire others to live with purpose, cultivate boldness, and create meaningful change in their lives and communities.

We look forward to having the motivation and spark from Ivelisse to all the Rally attendees! 

“13 years ago, who could have known that life was quietly preparing me to lead such an iconic, important Latina-led women’s organization? (photo on the left, at a Latinas Unidas networking event at Wegmans conference center). I’ve been a proud member of Latinas Unidas even longer, working behind the scenes with founding members, long-standing Latina leaders, and dedicated board members—each shaping my journey and this organization in their own way.

I’m open to new, innovative ideas as we step into a new era, but I do so with immense gratitude for the women who have trusted me, poured into me, and led by example. It is because of them that I take on this role with confidence and vision.

I’m not sure how long this season will last for me as president (photo below, at the MAG Latino Family Day 2024), but I am deeply committed to connecting services, fostering networks, and ensuring that the face of Latinas in our region is seen, represented, and valued—whether behind the scenes, as I’ve always been, or in the unforeseen forefront.

To God be all the glory, who blesses us with the gifts to do good and spread positivity.“

Raquel (Serrano) Singletary
Latinas Unidas Chair

As we prepare for our annual luncheon, I’m curious and thrilled about this year’s theme: “Latinas Futuristas: Shaping Tomorrow, Today.” This phrase inspires me, and I feel a deep sense of excitement every time I hear it. For me, it speaks to our power and influence—not only in our families and communities but also in every field we enter, every challenge we tackle, and every opportunity we create. It reminds me of the strength I see in all of you and the incredible potential we have to shape the future.

This theme has our board and me reflecting deeply on the future we are shaping for ourselves and the generations to come. But it’s not just about our vision—it’s about hearing from all of you!

For some, "Latinas Futuristas" might carry different meanings, or perhaps it's the first time you're considering your identity as a Latina and the impact you're having on your Latinitas, and the way you're empowering those around you. We want to know how you see yourself and how you’re contributing to our collective future.

What does "Latinas Futuristas" mean to you? What images, hopes, or ideas come to mind? Whether you're a student, a professional, a community leader, or simply someone who feels connected to our mission, we want to hear how you envision yourself and our community as part of the future!

1. Do you think of this as a call to break new ground in your career?
2. Do you feel inspired to mentor younger Latinas and show them what’s possible?
3. Or maybe you envision Latinas in every space, proudly rooted in our heritage while moving forward with confidence and vision.

These thoughts will help us shape our event on December 11th to reflect who we are and the impact we’re making. Our goal is to gather and showcase perspectives from our Latinas Unidas family at the luncheon. Hearing from you will add depth and meaning to the conversation and celebrate our collective strength and dreams.

So, I invite you to share your thoughts on what “Latinas Futuristas: Shaping Tomorrow, Today” means to you. Email us, message us on social media, or even pull me aside when you see me. Your voice is powerful, and we look forward to celebrating each and every one of you as we come together for this inspiring event.

You can purchase your tickets here for our annual luncheon Latinas Unidas Reconocimiento and Scholarship Awards.

With anticipation,

Raquel.

Raquel Singletary
Latinas Unidas President
Latinas Unidas Reconocimiento Committee Co-Chair
reconocimiento@LatinasUnidas.org

Latinas Unidas is excited to announce that sponsorship opportunities are now open for our 2024 Reconocimiento & Scholarship Awards Annual Event! This event is a chance to celebrate and honor the achievements of Latina women and young Latinas in our community, and we invite you to join us as a sponsor to help make it an unforgettable experience.

Why Become a Sponsor?

1. Create a Lasting Impact:

Your sponsorship directly supports scholarships and empowerment programs that help Latinas achieve their educational and career goals.

2. Build Connections and Networks:

Engage with community leaders, advocates, and supporters who are all committed to advancing the success of Latinas.

3. Gain Meaningful Visibility:

Sponsoring this event connects your brand with a dedicated and engaged audience through our various platforms.

Sponsorship Levels

We offer two sponsorship levels designed to make a powerful impact while being attainable. Even a modest contribution can significantly contribute to advancing our mission.

For more details on sponsorship benefits, please contact us at Lu.reconocimento@gmail.com to request our Sponsorship Package. The deadline to confirm your pledge is November 29, 2024.

Join Us on December 11 – Tickets Available Now!

Join us in person at our annual luncheon on December 11 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Henrietta. This gathering will provide a firsthand look at how Latinas Unidas empowers our community. If a sponsorship isn’t possible this year, consider purchasing a ticket or reserving a table to experience the impact and celebrate with us. Click here to learn more and secure your spot.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to partner with us in advancing Latina empowerment. Your support can make a difference!

Announcing the four Latina Award winners----

Irene Sanchez - Inspirational Leadership Award

Maria Cubillos Reed -Professional Achievement Award

Estella Velez Upegui - Volunteer Service Award

Kaysali Morales - Young Latina Leader Award

To see how we notified them through a personal surprise visit, go to our Facebook page. Click here for the LU Facebook page. Their reactions were priceless. 

Latinas Unidas is seeking nominations for our 2023 Annual Latina Reconocimiento Awards. These awards recognize the contributions and accomplishments of local Latinas.  

Award Categories:    

• Professional Achievement
• Inspirational Leadership 
• Volunteer Service
• Young Latina Leader

The mission of Latinas Unidas is to foster opportunities that promote unity, cultural identity and the presence of the Latina woman in the community. We encourage and motivate women to be proud of themselves and to assume active and positive roles in society.  The Reconocimiento Awards is our way of recognizing these accomplishments in a public forum.  

The winners will be recognized at the 30th Reconocimiento and Scholarship Awards Pearl Anniversary Gala on Saturday, December 2, 2023, 6 p.m., at Arbor at the Port of Rochester (1000 North River Street, Rochester, NY 14612).

Click here to submit your nomination online.

The Reconocimiento Awards recognize the contributions and accomplishments of local Latinas

Award Categories:

• Professional Achievement
• Inspirational Leadership
• Volunteer Service
• Young Latina Leader

The mission of Latinas Unidas is to foster opportunities that promote unity, cultural identity and the presence of the Latina woman in the community. We encourage and motivate women to be proud of themselves and to assume active and positive roles in society. The Reconocimiento Awards is our way of recognizing these accomplishments in a public forum.

Click here to submit your nomination online.

The winners will be recognized at the Reconocimiento and Scholarship Awards (RaSA) on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at the Harro East Ballroom.