Introduction to a Fashionable Fundraiser
Houston’s Latin Women’s Initiative recently celebrated its 30th anniversary in style with a luncheon and fashion show that drew over 850 supporters to the Hilton Americas-Houston ballroom. This event was a perfect blend of culture, community, and high fashion, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Event Highlights
The event was chaired by April Ramirez Fabre and Julie Garza, alongside board president Jovanny Orellana. The annual luncheon, show, and marketplace marked a significant milestone for the nonprofit, which has been supporting Houston’s Latin community for over two decades. This year’s honorees, Lisset Garza and Naimeh Salem, were recognized for their years of dedicated support to the organization and beyond.
A Morning of Shopping and Fun
The festivities kicked off early with a shopping marketplace that opened in the morning and quickly became standing room only. Attendees enjoyed tequila samples from local brand Titanium Tequila while browsing vendors. A specialty cocktail bar and music from DJ Freddy B kept the energy festive. Event designer Johanna Terry delivered an elegant setting, infusing the ballroom with rich emerald green tones, a nod to the organization’s 30th anniversary, paired with lush florals.
The Fashion Show
The program began with Orellana welcoming the crowd from a dramatic Y-shaped runway, as Mariachi Reyes de Mexico filled the room with music that hushed the crowd for a heartfelt invocation. Then came the moment every fashion lover waited for: Lo Mejor de Saks Primavera 2025 (The Best of Spring Saks 2025), a luxe runway show presented in partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, led by Heidi Turney and Hasina Starks. Applause echoed as models and a few brave Houston firefighters showed off the season’s must-haves. The true showstopper was actor and TV host Julián Gil, who surprised the audience by strutting the runway himself, earning whoops and cheers from the crowd.
Behind the Scenes
The catwalk came alive with Latin beats and massive LED screens flashing colorful visuals, thanks to a production team led by Lenny Matuszewski and Tamara Bonar. Behind-the-scenes storytelling and videos, created by exclusive media partner Telemundo Houston, added a poignant layer to the spectacle.
Raising Funds for a Cause
As guests settled in for lunch, anticipation built for the raffle, which included a dazzling diamond tennis necklace from Zadok Jewelers. Helene Zadok herself took the stage to crown the lucky winner. The event raised more than $500,000 to benefit Justice Forward, Rebuilding Together Houston, Segundo Barrio Children’s Chorus, El Centro de Corazon, and Naba Shoes for Kids.
Conclusion
The 30th-anniversary celebration of Houston’s Latin Women’s Initiative was a resounding success, combining style, celebration, and serious giving. With over $500,000 raised for various causes, the event made a significant impact on the community. As guests toasted to three decades of fashion for a cause and danced the afternoon away to live music from Grupo Kache, it was clear that this event would be remembered for years to come. Plans are already underway for next year’s festivities, scheduled for May 1, 2026. The event was attended by Houston’s Latin glitterati, including Ceron, Patricia Herrera, Leticia Fallick, Rosi Hernandez, Gloria Luna Bounds, Trini Mendenhall-Royalty, Vicky Dominguez, Becky Reyes, Maritza Gonzales, Vicki Luna, Chree Boydstun, David Cordua, Frances Castañeda Dyess, Patricia Garcia, Alba Huerta, Daisy Mendoza, Arcy Muñoz Marshall, Jolene Treviño, Mari Salazar, Leanne Schneider, Hoda Sana, Xochitl Ljuboja, Jackie Garcia, Cathryn Martinez, Mariangeles Orti, Vanessa Ramirez, Matty Restivo, Lisa Flores, Susan Dray, Marilu Garza, Conchita Reyes, Lorena Gomez, Lucia, and Michael Cordua, and Leisa Holland-Nelson.
