In recognition of Women’s History Month, we honor strong women in business like Liliam M. Lopez
This Women’s History Month, it is our pleasure to showcase the incredible Liliam M. Lopez. A mother, wife, and public figure that works to improve the lives of Floridians.
Liliam M. Lopez is the President and CEO of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. As such, she has been hard at work to make sure that businesses and Florida residents feel supported through the tough times of Covid-19. Not only that, but she is a role model that makes time for those that she loves.
Lopez began working at the age of 17 in the Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service Programs. This was a significant first experience for her because it pointed her in the direction she is in today. Her High School education and participation in various clubs prepared her for this incredible opportunity at a young age.
Her career quickly began to expand and shape form into what Lopez is known for today. She has worked as the Executive Director of the Spanish American League Against Discrimination (SALAD), she has been the Producer and Host of a weekly television show for ten years called “Panorama con Liliam Lopez.” The program aired on WLRN Cable-Tap and showcased the careers of executives, elected officials, and entrepreneurs at the local, state, and national levels.
In 1994, she became the Co-Founder of The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation. She has been the President and CEO of both organizations since they were founded back in 1994.
Due to her hard work within the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, it was recognized as one of the strongest and most impactful in the United States. Currently, the organization is composed of over 1,450 members and hosts about 25 events annually.
One of these events took place on February 19, 2021 at The Biltmore Hotel. It was the annual Fashionably Red Heart Disease Awareness Lunch and Panel Discussion, which connects cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to the community by educating them about heart disease prevention. This event was organized by the Hispanic Women’s Committee of the Commerce.
Another up-and-coming event is the Annual Hispanic Leadership Awards ceremony. This event to recognize top business leaders within the community will take place on April 30, 2021, at The Biltmore Hotel.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Liliam M. Lopez went above and beyond to make sure things were still happening for the local businesses in Florida. While many events had to be canceled, Lopez immediately began thinking outside the box. Doing what she does best which is bringing people together she launched her own personal news channel. By creating the “ A Business Minute with Lily Lopez” channel she created a place where all her members could come together and share their information and resources.
As a woman that genuinely cares about her community, Lopez is greatly involved in different interest areas as well. She is a Governing Board Member of Larkin Charter School for Health Sciences, serves on the Board of the Miami-Dade Health Education Center, is on the Advisory Board of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, serves on the President’s Council for Florida International University (FIU), and much more.
Lopez received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Political Science from St. Thomas University and a certificate in Paralegal Studies from the University of Miami. She is married to architect, Alfredo C. Sanches, and has a daughter who is currently attending the University of Miami.
For more information on the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and their latest updates, visit their website and follow them on Instagram @sflhcc.
