Thurs., Dec. 12, 2024 – The National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) and the CCNMA Latino Journalists of California hosted the inaugural Excelencia Awards & Next Gen Benefit on December 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, celebrating excellence in Hispanic journalism and raising funds for the next generation of Latino journalists. Â
Held at the Loews Hollywood Hotel, the sold-out gala brought together over 160 guests, including prominent journalists, corporate and community leaders, and media industry champions. The event highlighted a shared mission of empowering Hispanic journalists while honoring the exceptional contributions of Latina trailblazers and organizations leading in diversity and inclusion.
Nearly a dozen outstanding journalists were recognizing their contributions across various categories including the NAHJ Student Journalist of the Year, the Excelencia Community Award, and the Ă‘ Legacy Award. These awards highlighted the diversity of talent in Hispanic journalism and the impact these honorees have made in their communities and the industry.
The evening culminated by honoring Cecilia Vega with the inaugural National Latina Journalist of the Year Award. Her journey as a correspondent for CBS News’ 60 Minutes and former chief White House correspondent for ABC News has been marked by a commitment to impactful storytelling and mentoring the next generation of Latino journalists.
The night also spotlighted NBCUniversal News Group, recipient of the Corporate Diversity Award, for its groundbreaking initiatives in diverse storytelling and newsroom representation.
NAHJ and CCNMA extend their heartfelt gratitude to event sponsors, including AARP Los Angeles, AltaMed, CBS News and Stations, KTLA5, Latino Media Collaborative, Los Angeles Times, Mendez & Sanchez Law Firm, NBCUniversal/Telemundo, Port of Long Beach, SoCalGas along with in-kind support from VPE Communications and Negrete’s Flowers by Oscar.
Proceeds from the event will benefit NAHJ’s NextGen programs, which provide scholarships, internships, and mentorship opportunities for aspiring Hispanic journalists.
About NAHJ
The National Association of Hispanic Journalists is an educational and charitable association dedicated to the recognition and professional advancement of Hispanic students, professionals, and educators in the field of journalism. NAHJ focuses heavily on advocacy, addressing injustices and political issues that affect Latino journalists throughout the country, while also supporting a growing network of members and chapters. For more information please visit NAHJ.org or follow us on X @NAHJ.