EASY 93.1 is thrilled to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15th to October 15th, join us as we honor the incredible contributions of Hispanic individuals to American society and culture. We’ll spotlight various Hispanic professionals, artists, and community leaders who have enriched our lives and made a significant impact.

This celebration is proudly presented by Sedano’s Supermarkets, find the flavors and savings you love at a Sedano’s nearest you...and El Dorado Furniture, proud of its Hispanic Roots!

Stay tuned as we highlight some of the remarkable individuals of Hispanic heritage who are making a difference!

El Dorado Family

The El Dorado Furniture story is deeply rooted in the family’s journey from Cuba to the U.S. in 1966 aboard a boat named El Dorado. Just seven months later, Manuel Capó and his sons Luis and Carlos opened their first store, named in tribute to their arrival. Over the years, the Capó family expanded, with many members contributing to the growth of the business. In 2008, SW 25th Avenue was renamed Manolo Capó Way in honor of Manuel Capó, marking the site of their inaugural store. Today, El Dorado Furniture boasts twelve store locations and two outlets, establishing itself as one of the top fifty furniture retailers in the country.

Eileen Andrade

Eileen Andrade is a remarkable Hispanic figure who has profoundly influenced the culinary landscape of South Florida. As a distinguished Cuban-American chef and restaurateur based in Miami, Andrade is the owner and executive chef of Finka Table & Tap, a renowned restaurant in Doral celebrated for its inventive approach to Cuban and Latin cuisine. Andrade masterfully reimagines traditional Cuban dishes by infusing them with global flavors, creating a unique and vibrant dining experience. We proudly celebrate her exceptional contributions to the South Florida culinary scene!

José Mendín

José Mendín, a Puerto Rican-born chef, has played a pivotal role in shaping Miami’s dining culture. As a co-founder of the acclaimed restaurant Pubbelly Sushi, Mendín is celebrated for his inventive dishes and groundbreaking restaurant concepts. His culinary creativity and influence have made a lasting impact on the local food scene, elevating Miami’s dining experience to new heights.

José “Pepín” García

José “Pepín” García is a distinguished Cuban-American master cigar maker renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship. As the driving force behind My Father Cigars, a family-owned business that has garnered widespread acclaim, García’s legacy spans from his early days in Cuba to his influential presence in Miami. His cigars are celebrated for their rich flavors and meticulous craftsmanship, establishing him as a central figure in Miami’s vibrant cigar culture.

Natalia Zea

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Natalia Zea’s family culture has been a main influence in her life, with family at the core. After moving to Miami, her career and pursuit of her passions took flight. She was an investigative TV news reporter and anchor at CBS-4 for 10 years, before moving into public service, where she focuses on the well-being of children. She’s currently the Chief Public Policy, Engagement, and Communications Officer at The Children’s Trust of Miami-Dade County. In-between working and raising her own children, Natalia finds time to emcee numerous charity events and community summits. She believes ensuring that children and teens have equitable access to safe environments, health resources, and education and work opportunities is key to making Miami-Dade better for all.

Maria I. Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez is the founder and executive director of Jovenes en Acción, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth in South Florida through educational and career opportunities. Her leadership has been pivotal in creating pathways for young people to thrive academically and professionally, with a strong emphasis on mentorship and support. Rodriguez’s tireless efforts have significantly impacted the lives of many, fostering both personal growth and future success.

Dr. Eduardo J. Pardo

Dr. Pardo is a leading figure in public health within South Florida, renowned for his extensive work with local health organizations to tackle health disparities and enhance access to healthcare services for underserved communities. His impactful contributions include promoting health education and preventive care, with a special focus on the Latino community. Dr. Pardo’s dedication to improving public health has made a significant difference in advancing equitable healthcare access and outcomes.

Josie Smith

Josie Smith, a Hialeah native with a rich multicultural background—her mother is Puerto Rican-Italian and her father Filipino—embarked on a culinary journey that took her from South Florida to New York City. After exploring various pursuits, she discovered her true passion in the culinary arts at the Art Institute, where Chef Josie was born.

Her talent gained national recognition in 2006 as a contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 2, and she later appeared in Seasons 3, 5, and made a return in Season 10. After honing her craft and making waves in the culinary world, Josie returned to South Florida and opened Bubbles & Pearls, a vibrant restaurant located on Wilton Drive, where she continues to delight diners with her innovative cuisine.

Emily Estefan

Emily Marie Consuelo Estefan, born December 5, 1994, is a talented American singer with a rich musical heritage. As the daughter of iconic Cuban-American figures—singer Gloria Estefan and producer Emilio Estefan—Emily has made her own mark in the music industry. In 2017, she released her debut album, Take Whatever You Want, showcasing her skills as both a producer and director.

Beto Perez

Beto Pérez, a Colombian dancer, choreographer, businessman, and Zumba instructor, moved to Miami in pursuit of the American Dream. Initially teaching aerobics classes, he sought to promote his unique fitness and dance routines through music at various venues. In 2006, Pérez founded Zumba Fitness LLC, an organization dedicated to offering Zumba videos and products, as well as licensing fees to its network of instructors (ZIN™ – Zumba Instructors’ Network). The company, which employs over 200 staff members, has grown significantly. Today, approximately 14 million people in more than 160,000 locations across 185 countries participate in Zumba, enjoying dance and music that are primarily provided by the company.

Juan Gabriel Martin

Juan Gabriel Martin, the 2024 Rookie Teacher of the Year, is a dedicated music teacher at Citrus Grove K-8 Center. Recognized for his exceptional contributions, Martin is also a vibrant community advocate. He co-founded Compositum Musicae Novae, an organization committed to producing, performing, and introducing emerging musicians, dancers, writers, and visual artists to the public. His work continues to enrich the cultural landscape and inspire creativity in the community.

Camila Rocha

Easterseals South Florida has made history with the appointment of Camila Rocha as its new President and CEO, marking the first time a Hispanic female has held this prestigious position. Matthew Roth, Board Chair of Easterseals South Florida and President of Solstice Point Partners, LLC, praised Rocha’s extensive expertise, noting her 14 years of service within the organization, most recently as Chief Program Officer. Roth highlighted her strategic vision, humility, and leadership as key qualities that will elevate the agency and help it better serve children, adults, and seniors.

Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, Rocha moved to Miami in 2003 in search of greater professional opportunities. Her journey, characterized by resilience and a deep commitment to service, has significantly influenced her leadership style. Rocha is married to her high school sweetheart and is a proud mother of two children, both of whom have been active participants in Easterseals programs, reflecting her family’s dedication to the organization’s mission.

Digna Abello

Digna Abello has made history as the first female fire chief in Miami-Dade County. Sworn into command during a formal change-of-command ceremony yesterday, Chief Abello brings 19 years of dedicated service with the Miami Beach Fire Department. Her appointment, which became official in June, marks a significant milestone for the department and reflects her longstanding commitment to public service.

Paco Velez

If you ask Paco Velez what he treasures most about his Mexican Heritage, he’ll tell you it’s the food. Not just how good it is, but the association between food and family. He reminisces about the many holidays, celebrations, and family events he grew up with that were filled with singing, great conversation, and of course – delicious food. So, it’s not surprising that Paco has dedicated the last 25 years to helping end hunger, with the last 12 of those years as President and CEO of Feeding South Florida. Not only is it important to Paco to ensure that children don’t go to sleep hungry, he also wants all people to experience what he did growing up - the closeness that families and friends develop from sharing time together over a meal.

Cox Media Group