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June 30, 2025TUCSON, AZ – The Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the distinguished honorees for the 2025 Colores del Alma Gala & Binational Awards Ceremony, to be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Casino Del Sol Resort & Spa. The evening’s celebration begins at 6:00 PM and concludes at 10:30 PM.
Colores del Alma is the Chamber’s signature celebration of Hispanic culture, leadership, and cross-border collaboration. This year’s honorees represent a dynamic cross-section of industries and impact, exemplifying excellence, service, and legacy in our region and beyond.2025 Honorees:
• Hispanic Business Man of the Year: Jaime Chamberlain, President/CEO of Chamberlain Distributing
Jaime Chamberlain leads Chamberlain Distributing, a Nogales-based company established in 1971. With over 37 years in the produce industry, he has been instrumental in promoting cross-border trade and economic growth between the U.S. and Mexico.
• Hispanic Business Woman of the Year:Jackie Vasquez-Lapan, CEO of the Lapan Foundation
Jackie Vasquez-Lapan, through the Lapan Foundation, has been dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth in Southern Arizona by providing educational resources and support, fostering opportunities for academic and personal growth.
• Corporation of the Year: Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Through initiatives like Employee Resource Groups and partnerships with organizations such as the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), Southwest actively supports programs that promote representation and equal opportunity across its workforce.
• Small Business of the Year: Real Good Concepts
Real Good Concepts, a culinary enterprise based in Tucson, has made a significant impact on the local food scene by offering innovative dining experiences that celebrate Hispanic flavors and traditions.
• Co-Public Servant of the Year: U.S. Senator Mark Kelly
Senator Mark Kelly has been a steadfast advocate for policies that support economic development, education, and healthcare access in Arizona, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of all constituents.
• Co-Public Servant of the Year: Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas
Bishop Gerald Kicanas served the Diocese of Tucson with distinction from 2003 to 2017 before answering the call again in 2025 as Apostolic Administrator, emerging from retirement to guide the community through transition and change. His enduring dedication to compassion, faith-based leadership, and support for the region’s most vulnerable continues to uplift Southern Arizona and exemplify the spirit of selfless public service.
• Legacy Award: Dr. Alfredo Valenzuela
Dr. Alfredo Valenzuela, affectionately known as "Dr. V," is a revered music educator who founded the mariachi program at Davis Bilingual Elementary Magnet School. Over his 40-year career, he has inspired generations of students and helped establish Tucson as the Mariachi Capital of the United States.
“We are incredibly proud to announce such a remarkable and industry-diverse group of honorees,” said Rob Elias, President & CEO of the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber. “Each of these individuals and organizations has made lasting contributions to our region’s economic vitality, cultural richness, and shared future with Mexico. It’s a privilege to recognize their work and their spirit.”
For more information and to secure your seat at one of the region’s most anticipated cultural and business events of the year, please visit SoAZHCC.org.