Avanza Arkansas Announces 2026 VIDA Awards Honorees for Inaugural Statewide Recognition
Little Rock, Arkansas — Avanza Arkansas proudly announces the selected honorees for
the inaugural VIDA Awards – Voices Inspiring Diverse Arkansas, a statewide recognition
celebrating Latino leaders whose work strengthens communities across Arkansas.
The VIDA Awards highlight individuals whose leadership, dedication, and service create
meaningful impact across sectors including business, education, public service, healthcare,
nonprofit leadership, and community advocacy. This year, more than 100 nominations were submitted from across the state. After a
careful review process, nine leaders have been selected to receive recognition in
three categories. A 10th honoree will be revealed during the awards ceremony as a
special recognition.
The VIDA Awards ceremony will take place on May 6, 2026, at the Clinton Presidential
Center in Little Rock, bringing together community leaders, organizations, and partners
from across Arkansas.
2026 VIDA Awards Honorees Rising Leaders
● Sandra Carmona Jobe — Director of Development, Mamas Unidas
● Miriam Ramirez — Attorney at Law, The Ramirez Law Firm, PLLC
● Mayra Esquivel — Lead Paralegal, Arkansas Immigration Defense – AID
Impact Leaders
● Erika Buenrostro — Director of Student Success, University of Arkansas–Cossatot
● Robert Tellez — Attorney, Tellez Law Firm, PLLC
● Aida Kuettle — ESOL Director, South Conway County School District
Legacy Leaders
● Gloria Bastidas — Public Information Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Health
● Sue Espinoza — Health Outreach Coordinator, Arkansas Human Development
Corporation
● Jose Estrada — Director of Public Affairs, Walmart
Avanza Arkansas is also honored to welcome Dr. Rodrigo Domínguez-Villegas as the
keynote speaker for the inaugural ceremony. Dr. Domínguez-Villegas serves as the Director
of Research at the UCLA Latino Politics and Policy Institute and Director of the Latino
Data Hub, where his nationally recognized research focuses on Latino communities,
public policy, and data-driven insights that inform leadership and civic engagement
across the United States.
“The VIDA Awards were created to elevate the stories of leaders who are making a
difference in Arkansas communities,” said Diego Morales Ibarra, Executive Director
of Avanza Arkansas. “Many of these individuals lead quietly through service, advocacy,
and dedication. This event allows us to recognize their contributions and inspire
the next generation of leaders.”
Avanza Arkansas also recognizes First Community Bank as the Presenting Sponsor of
the inaugural VIDA Awards, supporting the organization’s mission to celebrate leadership
and strengthen communities across the state. Additional sponsorship opportunities
remain available for organizations interested in supporting this statewide recognition
of leadership.
Community members, businesses, and organizations are invited to attend the event
and celebrate the honorees.
Tickets and event information are available at:
Event Details
VIDA Awards – Voices Inspiring Diverse Arkansas - May 6, 2026 - 11:30 AM
Clinton Presidential Center, Little Rock, Arkansas
About Avanza Arkansas
Avanza Arkansas is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening
communities through leadership development, education, and access to resources. The
organization works to support individuals and families across Arkansas through programs
focused on economic empowerment, community engagement, education, and leadership initiatives.
Through partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and institutions,
Avanza Arkansas creates opportunities that help individuals and communities thrive.
Media Contact
Diego Morales Ibarra
Executive Director
Avanza Arkansas
diego@avanzaarkansas.org