People of Miami

The true heart of South Florida lies in the extraordinary individuals who live, work, and lead within our diverse neighborhoods. Our Miami People section honors local changemakers, community advocates, creative artists, grassroots leaders, and inspiring entrepreneurs who make a positive impact across the county. Through personal profiles, candid Q&A interviews, and feature stories, we celebrate the human stories driving Miami’s unique culture and social progress. Discover how everyday citizens are launching non-profits, revitalizing historic districts, mentoring youth, and creating innovative local enterprises. Explore these uplifting stories to connect with the passion, resilience, and diverse voices that define the authentic spirit of South Florida.

Discover the vibrant heartbeat of Miami through Calle Ocho News, your reliable source for community news in Miami. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of life in Miami with our insightful articles and updates on the local scene. From cultural events to neighborhood highlights, we bring you the pulse of this dynamic city.

Explore the diverse stories that define life in Miami on Calle Ocho News. Whether it’s the latest happenings in the city or profiles of individuals shaping the community, we capture the spirit of Miami through compelling narratives. Stay informed, inspired, and plugged into the rhythm of Miami’s heartbeat with Calle Ocho News.

Alex Paz Sees Workforce Development as a Pathway Out of Homelessness

Alex Paz of Chapman Partnership explains why overcoming homelessness requires more than finding a job—and how education, workforce development and Miami-Dade employers can help people

Miss Universe Cuba 2026 Mia Dio Turns a Second Chance into a National Mission

Miss Universe Cuba 2026 Mía Dio discusses second chances, the power of communication, her Bay of Pigs family legacy and the responsibility of representing Cuba

Commissioner Raquel Regalado on how Miami-Dade is becoming a national model for neuroinclusion

The Miami-Dade commissioner is transforming personal advocacy into a statewide framework for autism awareness, accessibility, and neuro-inclusive communities across Florida

From vision to legacy: Robert Kelbert is redefining education and accountability in Miami

A bold approach to leadership, identity, and accountability is positioning Robert Kelbert as a new kind of education leader in South Florida—one grounded in trust,

Calle Ocho News honors 8 women shaping the future of Miami

Eight leaders. Eight stories. One powerful reminder that Miami’s strength is built by women who lead with vision, resilience, and purpose.

From academia to artistry: How Marisol “Mari” Rodríguez is building cultural bridges through Pro-Arte

A former university professor turned cultural entrepreneur, Mari Rodríguez is redefining artist representation and live performance in South Florida—one carefully curated experience at a time

From policy to the people: Vicki Lopez’s vision for District 5 and Miami-Dade

From state policymaker to county commissioner, Lopez’s approach blends experience with accessibility, emphasizing partnership, accountability, and measurable outcomes for residents

Maykel Pérez’s Miami blueprint: How a Cuban American publicist rose to Latin America’s top 25 in 2025

Pérez reflected on a career built through reinvention, professional ethics, and a commitment to elevating the Cuban and Latin community from Miami to the international

Lourdes Mola sets vision for Latin market growth at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, FL

A seasoned entertainment executive brings cultural fluency, strategic vision, and community focus to one of South Florida’s most influential destinations

Beyond the lecture: How one Miami activist is making environmentalism fun

Andrew Otazo, founder of ARO Communications, is transforming civic engagement in South Florida by trading in sermons for satire and lectures for laughs, proving that

Hot Topics

PortMiami Reaches 10 Million Cruise Passengers in Record-Breaking Year

PortMiami welcomed its 10 millionth cruise passenger of the 2026 fiscal year, surpassing its previous annual record with two weeks remaining. The milestone brings new

Viva Miami Business Expo Honors Hispanic Leadership and Community Impact

SFLHCC’s 22nd Annual Viva Miami Business Expo brought South Florida leaders together during Hispanic Heritage Month. Former Dominican President Leonel Fernández and six Cervantes Award

Rhythm & Roots Brings a Free Week of Cuban and Latin Music to Miami

The Arsht Center will host Rhythm & Roots from September 29 through October 4, bringing six days of free Cuban and Latin music, dancing, dominoes,

Carnegie Mellon University Miami to Transform Wynwood with $2 Billion Campus backed by Ken Griffin

Carnegie Mellon University plans to establish a 35-acre campus in Wynwood backed by $2 billion from Ken Griffin. The project could reshape Miami’s higher-education and
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