Part of the origin
Romina Razuri Landaure is part of the origin of this story and remains connected to and involved in the project. Her continued presence reflects the people behind an initiative that has grown with each edition.
Who we are
About HOLA AWARDS
A platform celebrating Latino excellence in Canada
Our story
HOLA AWARDS was created with the vision of building a space where the Latino community in Canada can be recognized for its cultural, social and economic contributions. Year after year, we celebrate those who inspire and transform.
OUR STORY
A story that evolves without losing its roots
HOLA AWARDS —Honouring Outstanding Latin Achievement— continues a recognition project built with Canada’s Latino community. Its name has evolved—from EMPY Awards to HOLA EMPY and now HOLA AWARDS—but its commitment remains: celebrating talent, leadership, creativity and impact.
HOLA AWARDS · CANADA
What HOLA means
Honouring Outstanding Latin Achievement
HOLA stands for Honouring Outstanding Latin Achievement. This definition expresses the brand’s current mission: recognizing outstanding achievements by Latino people, projects, brands and organizations across Canada.
- 1
The origin
EMPY Awards
The initiative began as EMPY Awards, creating a space to highlight community achievements, journeys and contributions.
- 2
The evolution
HOLA EMPY
As HOLA EMPY, the project broadened its voice and strengthened a gala where community, culture and recognition came together.
- 3
The current chapter
HOLA AWARDS
Today’s identity preserves that memory while opening a broader institutional chapter connected to new audiences and possibilities.
People, community and continuity
A broader institutional vision
The current chapter is led by Luis Ríos, founder and president of HOLA Media Group. His vision is to broaden HOLA AWARDS as a platform for recognition, content and community connection while respecting everything built before it.
A project open to the future
HOLA AWARDS is moving toward an institutional structure able to grow through transparency, collaboration and service. This path leaves open the possibility of a future foundation-style structure to strengthen its community mission.
Living memory
Authentic images from the HOLA EMPY 2025 gala preserved in the HOLA AWARDS media library.
