About us

The Excelente Awards is Charlotte, North Carolina's premier platform for honoring the outstanding achievements of Latino leaders and the dedicated allies who support us. Our mission is to dismantle barriers to visibility by celebrating the visionary business owners, dedicated public servants, and educators who drive our region's progress.

The initiative features a diverse range of honors, including:

Professional Excellence: Recognizing Latino leaders across business and community service.
The "Amigo" Award: Honoring a non-Latino individual whose unwavering commitment to inclusion and equity has created new opportunities for the Latino community.
The Youth Excellence Scholarship: Celebrating high-achieving Latino students by providing $2,500 scholarships to ensure educational equity and support the next generation of our workforce.

By honoring those who lead and those who open doors, Excelente fosters a community of mutual respect and belonging where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The Excelente Awards are organized by La Noticia

Award categories

Businessman of the Year

This award recognizes an outstanding male individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and success in the business world. The recipient of this award has made significant contributions to their industry, showing remarkable achievements and driving positive change.

Businesswoman of the Year

This award honors an exceptional female individual who has achieved remarkable success and made a significant impact in the business world. The recipient of this award is a trailblazer, demonstrating strong leadership, resilience, and innovation in their field.

Community Service Person of the Year

This award celebrates an individual who has dedicated their time, energy, and resources to making a positive difference in their community. The recipient has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others, working tirelessly to address social issues and create meaningful change.

Volunteer of the Year

This award recognizes an individual who has shown exceptional dedication and selflessness through their volunteer work. The recipient has generously given their time and skills to support various causes and organizations, making a significant impact on the lives of others.

Non-Latin Person Most Supportive of the Latin American Community

This award acknowledges a non-Latin individual who has demonstrated exceptional support, understanding, and advocacy for the Latin American community. The recipient has actively worked to promote inclusivity, bridge cultural gaps, and create opportunities for Latin Americans.

Champion in Diversity & Inclusion Company of the Year

This award honors a company or organization that has demonstrated a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The recipient has implemented inclusive practices, fostered a diverse workforce, and created a supportive environment where all individuals can thrive.

Teacher of the Year

This award recognizes an exceptional educator who has made a significant impact on the lives of their students. The recipient has shown exceptional dedication, innovation, and a genuine passion for teaching, inspiring their students to reach their full potential.

Student of the Year

This award celebrates an outstanding student who has excelled academically, demonstrated leadership skills, and made notable contributions to their school or community. The recipient is a role model, embodying the values of dedication, perseverance, and excellence.