About Us
The story of an organization built on service, vision, and community.
Our Mission
"Our mission is to empower, advance, and connect Hispanic professionals and businesses. We act as a catalyst for economic growth and cultural celebration across the Gulf Coast, driving community impact through strategic networking, advocacy, and our dedicated scholarship programs."
Our History
The Era of Transformation & Future Vision (2026 – Present)
2026 & Beyond
Economic & Workforce Focus
A primary goal for this era is the launch of specialized workshops and programs focusing on economic development. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap for small businesses, providing the technical tools and advocacy needed to thrive in the modern workforce.
Today
The Scholarship Legacy
100% of event proceeds and membership funds are transformed into scholarships for Hispanic students, ensuring that current business success directly funds the workforce of tomorrow.
2026
The Evolution to HABA
The organization officially transitions from HABAGC to HABA, signaling a modernized, expansive identity that reaches across the entire Gulf Coast.
2026
Non-Profit Milestone
HABA officially transitions to a 501(c)(3) organization, marking a new era of growth and the ability to pursue formal grants for community empowerment.
2023
Creation of The Continental Kitchen
HABA launched The Continental Kitchen, a premier shared kitchen incubator. This facility provides underserved food entrepreneurs with professional equipment, business support, and a low-risk environment to turn "recipes into reality."
2020 – 2022
Digital Stability
During global economic shifts, the organization pivoted to provide essential digital networking and resources, ensuring the Hispanic business community remained resilient and connected.
2021
Mobile Latin Fest
Established in 2021, the Mobile Latin Fest has evolved from a cultural celebration into a vital engine for local entrepreneurship. Through the festival, organizers identified a significant gap in resources for small business owners, leading to targeted training and the eventual creation of Continental Kitchen. This shared-use incubator now provides the commercial infrastructure and mentorship necessary to turn seasonal festival success into sustainable, year-round business growth.
2018 – 2019
Strategic Diplomacy
HABA hosted high-level conferences with delegations from Panama and Cuba, acting as the definitive commercial bridge for the Hispanic-American community.
2015 – 2017
Industrial Integration
The organization placed the Gulf Coast on the global map through alliances with industrial giants like Airbus and Pemex, connecting local vendors with international supply chains.
2011 – 2014
Regional Consolidation
Following the success of early annual meetings, the organization expanded its footprint across the Mobile area, becoming the primary benchmark for Hispanic professional networking.
2010
The Inaugural Meeting
Led by Mariluz Hilbun, the first Annual Meeting was held at the Battle House Hotel's Crystal Ballroom. With over 100 attendees, it set the professional standard for Hispanic business representation in Mobile.
2009
Institutional Support
From day one, the organization was backed by the Alabama Port Authority and the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, with initial leadership from Ralph Hargrove and Manny Estrada.
2009
The Beginning
Founded by Maria Conchita Mendez and Dr. Leida Javier-Ferrell, HABA Gulf Coast (HABAGC) was born.
What guides us
Our Values
Community
We believe in the power of unity and mutual support among Hispanics on the Gulf Coast.
Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in everything we do.
Commitment
We dedicate our efforts to the growth and well-being of our community.
Integrity
We act with honesty and transparency in all our relationships.
Leadership
Board of Directors
President
Silvia Skultety
Broker/Owner · Mobile Bay Real Estate
Vice President
Guillermo Belloso
Realtor/Investor & Engineer · Mobile Bay Real Estate
Treasurer
Mario Castaneda
CEO · Fortitude Business Solutions
Secretary
Cindy Guerrero-Knowlton
Extension Coordinator · Auburn University
Board Member
Pilar Gaunaurd
Graphic Designer
Board Member
Walter Miranda
VP · Commercial Underwriter III
Board Member
Javier Morales
Grants Analyst · Alabama Non-Profit Housing, Inc.
Past Board Presidents
Contact
Write to Us
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Official email
admin@habausa.orgPhone
(251) 289-0816