On Wednesday, March 29, the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (MHCC) hosted its 19th Economic Forum Breakfast sponsored by General Motors. The event took place at the historic Detroit Athletic Club in downtown Detroit. This year’s forum brought together business leaders who were eager to learn why “Latinos are the Key to Unlocking Michigan’s Potential”.
Stacie de Armas, Senior Vice President Inclusive Intelligence & Initiatives at Nielsen was the Keynote Speaker. Ms. de Armas shared the most updated data about Latinos in Michigan and in the country. Her presentation was complemented by the participation of two local Latina business leaders, Joann Chavez, Senior Vice President, and Chief Legal Officer at DTE Energy and Isabel Medellin, Global Director, DEI & at Talent Acquisition at Steelcase. Both women joined Ms. de Armas for a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Jeff Wyatt, MHCC Treasurer & Finance Committee Chair as well as Senior Director at DWH Corp.
The more than 200 guests left the forum with a clear message: Latinos are the fastest growing demographic in the state and in the country; it is imperative that we provide young Latinos with the support needed to navigate the educational system and empower them to become the next generation of professionals and entrepreneurs. Ms. Medellin emphasized the importance of including processes and systemic decisions in our business environments that will ensure equal opportunities in the workplace for Latinos.
For more information regarding how the MHCC supports Hispanic businesses as well as upcoming events, go to www.mhcc.org
