Home // events

Summit 2026 Empowering the Next Generation of Latino Leaders

Date & Time

Friday, October 9th, 2026

Doors open at 8:00 am
Program: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Location

LMCU Ballpark
4500 W River Dr NE, Comstock Park
MI, 49321, US

Fees / Admission

College Student $0
Member $30
Non-member $45
Ticket sales close on September 25th,2026

Contact Info

Hilary Sanchez
Send Email

This dynamic, day-long conference is designed to create a space in West Michigan that fosters networking opportunities, skill development, and access to valuable resources, while empowering Latino students and early- to mid-career professionals to contribute to the broader goal of increasing Latino representation across professional sectors.

This inspiring gathering brings together emerging and established Latino leaders for a powerful
experience designed to inform, connect, and elevate.

What to Expect

Participants will engage in a meaningful day of professional growth and community building, featuring:

  • Keynote presentation by Carlos Andres Gomez
  • Interactive learning sessions designed for both students and professionals
  • Industry panels and conversations with Latino leaders
  • Networking opportunities with employers, community leaders, and peers
  • Resource tabling featuring organizations committed to supporting Latino talent
  • Professional development experiences focused on career readiness and advancement
  • An immersive networking lunch experience
  • FREE Professional Headshots
  • A professional fashion show featuring workplace attire

Breakout Sessions

The Summit offers engaging sessions designed to equip participants with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and strategies for personal and professional success.

Breakout Session 1

Beginner’s Guide to Investing:

This workshop introduces the basics of investing, including investment strategies, risk and return, diversification, and how to start investing based on your personal goals.

De la Lucha al Logro:

Learn to recognize fixed mindset patterns, embrace a growth mindset, and develop strategies to overcome personal and systemic barriers.

Breakout Session 2

Making Smart Financial Decisions:

In this workshop explore how emotional trigger and consumer influences can affect spending habits. Learn about cognitive biases and how they impact our financial descisions.

Interculturalism as a Professional Asset:

Attend this session to explore how you can increase your Cultural Intelligence and harness your Community Cultural Wealth to gain confidence as you start your professional journey!

Navigating Multiple Opportunities:

Gain practical strategies to confidently navigate career opportunities, communicate professionally, and make informed career decisions while building strong professional relationships.

Breakout Session 3

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Credit:

In this session, you’ll learn how to confidently build and manage your credit, along with practical tips to recognize and avoid common scams.

Your First Job Isn’t Your Last: Panel Discussion

This session will provide participants with real-world insights from professionals on how to effectively position themselves for the right opportunity.

Voces Ejecutivas de West Michigan: Panel Discussion

Explore how nonprofit and community leaders drive impact through vision, resilience, and strategic leadership while staying grounded in the needs of the communities they serve.

Who Should Attend?

  • Latino college students
  • Recent graduates
  • Early- and mid-career professionals
  • Emerging leaders
  • Employers and community partners committed to advancing Latino talent
    • Everyone!

 

For Sponsorship Opportunities Contact Rocio Moreno at rocio@westmihcc.org

Event Photo Release Statement
By attending this event you hereby consent to having your photo/likeness/recordings posted publicly and on social media.
Al asistir a este evento, da su consentimiento para que se publiquen sus fotos, imágenes y grabaciones en las redes sociales.

Become a member and get benefits such as discounts on event tickets.

We’re here to help you connect with the resources you need, If you have specific questions, contact us directly.