Celebrating Hispanic Leadership: The VEO Conference's Bold Vision

The inaugural ISSA VEO Conference (Visión, Empeño, Oportunidad) took center stage in Chicago from September 29-30, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month. This historic two-day event gathered 122 leaders and innovators from the cleaning and facility solutions industries, all committed to celebrating and empowering Hispanic professionals. Participants engaged in informative workshops, dynamic networking opportunities, and enriching discussions, culminating in the prestigious Visionario Awards Gala. U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer opened the conference with a powerful message about the importance of diversity and equity within various sectors, reinforcing the fundamental goal of the VEO initiative.

Empowering Change: Insights from Influential Leaders

Among the notable attendees was Rebecca Contreras, a former White House advisor who emphasized the need for resilience in leadership. Contreras shared her insights on how diverse leadership shapes more inclusive business practices. Similarly, María Cardona, a prominent political commentator, highlighted the necessity for Hispanic representation in all areas, particularly when it comes to industry leadership. "VEO isn’t just about development. It's about building structures that promote leadership and empower our community," stated ISSA Chief Membership Officer Rosie Rangel.

Charting the Future: A Look Ahead for the Cleaning Industry

The VEO initiative arrives at a critical juncture—Hispanic professionals now constitute approximately 70% of the cleaning industry workforce, yet they remain underrepresented in executive roles. With a focus on business advancement, workforce development, and industry representation, the VEO Conference seeks to redefine these statistics and pave the way for future generations of Hispanic leaders. The commitment does not end with the conference; the multi-year program aims to nurture talent through continuous mentorship and a standing council, ensuring sustained progress after the initial event.

Recognizing Excellence through Visionario Awards

At the closing gala, the Visionario Awards were bestowed upon two exceptional leaders: Karina Villasenor, VP of Human Resources at 4M Building Solutions, and Angelica Rivera, Regional Supervisor at Babco Building Services. Each awardee highlighted the importance of leadership and community in their journeys, symbolizing the broader impact of the VEO initiative. Their outstanding contributions are exemplary of the transformation that the VEO Conference aims to promote within the industry.

The Ripple Effect: Building a Community of Change

The VEO Conference serves as a catalyst for change, facilitating connections and encouraging Hispanic professionals to advocate for their growth within the industry. As attendees articulated their experiences, there was a unanimous sentiment: the conference instilled a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. It illustrated that when professionals unite, they can influence not just their future but also contribute to systemic shifts in their communities. The words of Gonzales resonate deeply: “If I can do it, anybody can do it.”

The success of the inaugural ISSA VEO Conference highlights the urgency of inclusive representation and actionable support for Hispanic professionals in the cleaning industry. As we reflect on this pivotal gathering, it stands as a reminder that empowering diverse voices and fostering collaboration is essential for collective growth. Join the movement, share your experiences, and advocate for a brighter, more equitable future within our industries.