Puentes de Impacto / Bridges of Impact 2026 celebrates Latino leaders, connectors, and changemakers shaping New Jersey’s future.

A Note From Marelyn Rivera - Founder and Curator, Puentes de lmpacto / Bridges of Impact

Leadership is not defined by a title. It is defined by what we make possible for others.

We see it in elected offices and boardrooms, in classrooms and newsrooms, in small businesses and health centers. We see it in community organizations and in neighbors who step up, speak out, and show up-often without recognition, always with purpose.

Puentes de lmpacto / Bridges of Impact was created to bring that leadership into the spotlight. To honor the people who open doors, connect communities, and turn a commitment to service into meaningful change across New Jersey.

As we conclude Hispanic Heritage Month, this second annual celebration invites us to do more than reflect on our contributions. It calls us to recognize the people making a difference today-and the possibilities they are creating for tomorrow. Our honorees remind us that Latino leadership is not a single story. It spans generations, professions, neighborhoods, and lived experiences, each adding something essential to our state's future.

Their individual accomplishments deserve recognition. But together, their stories reveal something even more powerful: a community whose talent, generosity, resilience, and vision expand what is possible for all of us.

To every honoree, nominator, partner, and community member who helped bring this celebration to life: thank you for believing these stories deserve to be told.

When we recognize one another, we strengthen one another. And when we build bridges together, New Jersey moves forward.

Download the Puentes de Impacto/Bridges of Impact: A Celebration of Latino Leaders 2026 or view it below: