Greater Kendall Business Association March 2024 Signature Luncheon
On May 23, 2024, the Greater Kendall Business Association (GKBA) hosted its March Signature Luncheon at The Palace in West Kendall, Florida. We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Palace for their exceptional hospitality, beautiful venue, and delectable cuisine. Special thanks go to Adam Rosenblum from The Palace for sponsoring this event. His support made our luncheon memorable, and we are deeply grateful for his efforts.
Our keynote speaker was the renowned Tito Puente Jr. Inviting Tito was an easy decision. I’ve known him for over a decade, collaborating on various charity and entertainment events, including a notable charity drive for Haiti earthquake victims. Tito’s generosity and other shared moments have only deepened our friendship.
Tito Puente Jr. is an internationally respected musician, renowned across the globe for his contributions to salsa music. Following in the footsteps of other successful musicians like Jay-Z with his Roc Nation empire and Rihanna with her Fenty brand, Tito has recently ventured into a new business, promoting his line of salsas. This transition from his illustrious musical career to entrepreneurship was a natural one, given his deep roots in salsa music. His presentation at the luncheon was both inspiring and insightful, as he shared his journey into this new venture with our attendees. Tito’s story underscores the importance of leveraging one’s talents and fame into successful business endeavors.
Everyone was buzzing about Tito’s amazing performance and the overall program. The crowd participation and involvement of our members and trustees made the event interactive and enjoyable. Our table networking, famously effective, allowed members to truly connect and interact, reinforcing why the Greater Kendall Business Association is known as “The friendliest place to do business.”
Tito Puente Jr. ignited the event at The Palace with energy and excitement. He entertained the crowd with his percussion skills, playing along to his father’s, and later Santana’s hit song “Oye Como Va.” Tito passionately shared his mission to keep his famous father’s legacy alive and to teach youth across America about Latin music, highlighting his deep love for educating children and inspiring the next generation of musicians.
Attendees also had the opportunity to sample the unique varieties of Tito Puente Jr.’s Picante Hot Sauces, which were a hit among the crowd. Tito engaged with the audience, answering insightful questions, making the event both interactive and memorable.
During the event, I had the pleasure of speaking with Soraya Rivera-Moya, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities. This charity is dedicated to supporting families with critically ill children, providing them with a “home away from home” during their medical treatments. Soraya’s commitment to her work is truly commendable.
Another standout attendee was Myriam Polo, who captured the event’s tropical theme perfectly by wearing a guayabera dress. Myriam is an occupational therapist known for promoting optimism and well-being within her community. With a Bachelor’s degree in Personnel Management, a Master’s degree in Health Sciences, and a Certificate in Health Coaching, Myriam combines her academic background and personal experience to help others achieve their personal and professional goals. Her presence added a touch of elegance and professionalism to the event.
Tito Puente Jr.’s entrepreneurial spirit reminds us of a famous quote by Steve Jobs: “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work.” Tito exemplifies this principle, demonstrating that passion and dedication can lead to success in multiple arenas. His ability to seamlessly transition from music to business serves as an inspiration to all aspiring entrepreneurs.
The key takeaway from our May 2024 Signature Luncheon is the importance of leveraging one’s skills and passions into successful business ventures. Whether it’s through community support, like Soraya’s work with Ronald McDonald House Charities, or personal development, as demonstrated by Myriam Polo, the path to success is paved with dedication and a willingness to explore new opportunities.
As we move forward, let’s take inspiration from Tito Puente Jr.’s journey and apply it to our own lives. Explore your passions, develop your skills, and don’t hesitate to venture into new territories. Together, we can achieve great things.
For more insights and to stay updated on future events, visit MiamiBusiness.com. Let’s continue to support each other in our entrepreneurial endeavors and create a thriving business community in Greater Kendall.
If you live in the Kendall area (or close to it) I encourage you to join the Greater Kendall Business Association, the “Friendliest place to do business” via their website at GreaterKendall.com/join. You can always contact me, Wilson Alvarez at 305-386-6165.
