Join diverse community events and cultural celebrations in Skokie, IL. Find festivals, networking events, religious celebrations, educational workshops, and gatherings from communities worldwide. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of your area through events that celebrate heritage, foster understanding, and bring people together across cultures."
Join us for a 2-day conference focused on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and empowering environment where everyone can thrive and lead.
2026 HACE National Leadership Summit
Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes
At HACE, we believe everyone has the right to realize dreams bigger than their circumstances. Our mission is simple yet transformative: to unlock the full potential of Latinos and diverse individuals for themselves and their communities.
This year’s Summit theme, “Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes,” celebrates the courage to challenge the status quo and create new possibilities. Over two powerful days, barrier-breakers from across our community will come together for transformative sessions led by thought leaders and industry experts. Together, we’ll explore new pathways to growth, dismantle what holds us back, and transform the trajectory for the next generation of leaders.
By Cultivating the Power of Líderes, we honor our commitment to nurturing leadership potential across all communities—because when one person’s potential is ignited, it creates a ripple effect that strengthens organizations, families, and the broader economy.
Our HACE alumni don’t just break barriers—they create pathways. From teachers inspiring students to business owners and CEOs generating jobs, they represent what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. Join us in building a future where leaders rise, barriers fall, and communities thrive. Because we can be Más.
Explore Our Three Leadership Tracks
Join us for two transformative days of learning, connection, and growth as we explore HACE’s three core leadership pillars — Thought Leadership, Talent Acquisition, and Professional Development — through a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to inspire action and elevate leadership at every stage.
Track 1: Inspira — Inspiring Transformative Change
Pillar: Thought Leadership
Explore how Latino leaders are reshaping the future through courage, innovation, and purpose. This track centers on the personal and collective power of transformation — from financial wellness and cultural identity to resilience, caregiving, and the evolving role of humanity in an AI-driven world.
Sessions include:
Wealth con Propósito: From Money Mindset to Financial Momentum
Resilient Leadership: Bienestar & Healing en Acción
Invisible Barreras Navigating Immigration Issues in the Workforce
Caught in the Middle: Navigating Career, Caregiving y Cultura
Staying Relevant en un Mundo Powered by AI, Workforce y Inclusive Innovation
Track 2: Conecta — Pathways of Talent & Opportunity
Pillar: Talent Acquisition
This track focuses on opening doors, breaking barriers, and redefining what inclusive hiring and advancement look like. Through panels, data-driven insights, and interactive workshops, participants will gain strategies to expand opportunity and drive equitable workforce change.
Sessions include:
Breaking Barreras in Talent Acquisition: Opening Pathways to Opportunity
From Culture Fit to Culture Add: Reimagining Organizational Growth
Equity by Design: How Decades of Data Reveal Bias in Career Pathways
The Mobility Mindset: Navigating Job Hopping and Career Growth
Networks that Open Doors: Career Growth in the War Room
Track 3: Crece — Rising to Our Leadership Potential
Pillar: Professional Development
Designed for emerging and established leaders alike, this track helps participants embrace their authentic leadership style, strengthen resilience, and chart intentional career paths. Each session offers actionable tools and inspiring insights to elevate your impact and influence.
Sessions include:
Trailblazing with Resilience: Leading Without a Roadmap
Owning Your Power: Leading with Culture, Confidence, and Authenticity
Network to Lead: Building Connections that Count
Bridging Generations: From Management to Mentorship
Strategic Career Mapping: Designing Your Leadership Journey
Early Bird Pricing (Ends Dec 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST)
Lock in discounted rates now—apply the promo codes at checkout.
2026 National Leadership Summit (In-Person Ticket Only) — $550
Save $100 with code EARLYSUMMIT26
2026 Awards Celebration (In-Person Ticket Only) — $325
Save $50 with code EARLYAWARDS26
Summit & Awards Celebration Bundle (In-Person Ticket Only) — $900
Save $100 with code EARLYCOMBO26
Early bird discounts valid through December 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST.
Ready to Grow, Connect, and Lead?
Choose the track that aligns with your goals—or mix sessions across all three to design your own leadership journey.
** For more details on the full agenda, list of speakers, hotel & parking accommodations, and additional event information, visit HACE’s website to learn more about the 2026 Summit & Awards Celebration. **
Hotel Accommodations – Summit 2026
We are excited to offer a special room block for Summit 2026 attendees at the JW Marriott Chicago, located in the heart of downtown and just minutes from the Summit venue.
Room Block Details:
Discounted group rate available for Summit attendees
Rooms available on a first-come, first-served basis
Reservation deadline: March 31, 2026
After this date, the discounted rate cannot be guaranteed
We encourage guests to book early to secure their stay at the preferred Summit hotel.
Wednesday, 29, 08.00 -
Thursday, 30, 17.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
The most exclusive private business gala is back! This events features some of the most influential minds of CEO's & Entrepreneurs.
Welcome to Blacktopia! The Most exclusive business gala in illinois, this will be the 5th installment. Blacktopia is a formal elegant event created to celebrate the achievement of philanthropist, non for profit foundations, ceo's and entrepreneurs in illinois. Blacktopia is a platform and opportunity to create lucrative business relationships. Blacktopia is full of resource sharing, networking, referrals, live entertainment and honorary presentations. This event features a exclusive guest list, luxurious dress code, a formal reception, dinner, entertainment including speeches and a award ceremony. The most exclusive private business gala is back with it's 5th installment. if you found this page you are one of our exclusive Guest. This events features some of the most influential minds of CEO's & Entrepreneurs in illinois. "IT'S TIME TO GET DRESSED"
General Terms
All items are non-refundable, all sales are final. By completing your purchase, you agree that all ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets cannot be returned, exchanged or transferred unless specifically stated otherwise. Refund Policy All items are non-refundable under any circumstances. You agree to contact the event organizer directly to resolve any issues before initiating a chargeback or dispute with your payment provider. Cancellation Policy In the event the Gala is Cancelled a Full Refund will be issued to guest
Sunday, 19, 18.00 -
Sunday, 19, 23.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
A circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community
A monthly circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community
February 22nd – Why are we here?
March 29 – Understanding Masculinity and Femininity
April 26 – Exploring Self-Love
May 31st – Compassion as a Practice
Facilitated by Ruben Gerena and Jupiter García
Rubén Gerena is currently an Assistant Professor and Department Chair of the Human Services department at National Louis University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Phoenix University and his master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Spertus College. Rubén has spent over 25 years working with youth in Chicago. While mentoring youth in the Alternative school system, he helped to establish initiatives that have led to a large array of youth-focused programs across the city of Chicago that are still impacting communities. Some of these programs focused on addressing the trauma that has been experienced through gun violence and domestic violence. In addition, Ruben has been a part of city-wide initiatives in helping to address recidivism rates primarily in the south and southwest sides of the city, through increasing job readiness programs and life skills training that have been proven to decrease the number of individuals returning to prison. Ruben is also an advocate for Restorative Justice practices and is a circle keeper.
Rubén is also a Lucumí priest (Olorisha) and is ordained in the secrets of Obàtálá. Rubén is a drummer and has been studying Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba and Plena music and Dance since his teenage years. In addition, Rubén is a Drum maker and has taught youth and adults throughout the city to make their drums as a method of helping people reaffirm their own cultural identity. Currently, Ruben is the Board President of La Escuelita Bombera de Corazón, a leader in Afro-Puerto Rican arts.
Jupiter Garcia, a seasoned practitioner from Chicago, brings over 17 years of diverse healing experience. Coming from a lineage of curanderas, Jupiter's extensive background, rooted in Buddhism and Ifa, encompasses Reiki practice and teaching, chakra balancing, and access to the Akashic Records, providing multi-dimensional healing opportunities.
With a profound commitment to trauma healing, Jupiter has dedicated years to facilitating healing groups for survivors of childhood abuse and guiding ancestral healing work. This experience informs Jupiter's compassionate, trauma-sensitive approach to wellness and personal transformation.
As an experienced meditation guide, Jupiter leads bilingual meditation sessions that help participants cultivate present-moment awareness and inner peace. These group experiences are complemented by Jupiter's one-on-one coaching, where individualized guidance helps clients develop sustainable practices for emotional regulation, stress management, and enhanced well-being.
Jupiter creates safe, supportive spaces where healing can naturally unfold, anchored in ancient wisdom. Clients benefit from Jupiter's holistic methodology that addresses mind, body, and spirit connections, offering pathways to profound healing and personal growth.
Sunday, 29, 13.00 -
Sunday, 29, 15.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
A curated shopping experience celebrating Womxn makers, entrepreneurs, and artists! Shop small and support local businesses.
Get in on the fun as we spotlight Womxn artists, makers, and small business Xingonas. Swing by and show some love for these incredible women and their handcrafted goodies, and jaw-dropping services. It's going to be a jam-packed afternoon of art, music, mouth-watering treats, wellness vibes, and a whole bunch of surprises you won't want to miss! See you there!
Shop from local Womxn-owned businesses, including jewelry, bath and body, home goods, apparel, snacks, and more!
Discover & connect with Womxn-owned service providers in the Chicagoland area including, financial services, counseling services, community builders, wellness and more!
GET YOUR TICKET NOW!
General Admission Ticket: FREE
Entry starting at 1pm
Kids under 12 are FREE
Discover and support women-owned businesses
VIP Early Access + Tote + Raffle
Early Bird $6 (until March 6)
Regular $10 (after March 6)
Entry starting at 12pm
Kids under 12 are FREE
(1) Viva La Mujer Tote Bag for environmentally friendly shopping
(1) Raffle ticket for a chance to win amazing products from one of our featured Viva La Mujer Vendors. Raffle prizes are available while supplies last.
Important Notes:
Check-in at our registration table upon arrival.
Once you are checked in at the event, you will receive your tote bag and raffle ticket for a chance to win a prize!
If our venue reaches capacity, we will be giving priority entrance to those attendees with a time slot ticket bought online.
* Pets are not allowed at this event. See FAQ section.
Sunday, 22, 12.00 -
Sunday, 22, 17.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
A fun trivia night bringing the community together to support migrant families
Trivia, community, and impact—all in one night supporting migrant families. Free to attend, $10 donation to play per person (solo or teams). Bring new or gently used clothing to get a raffle ticket, with extra tickets available by donation. Register on Eventbrite and come make a difference!
Thursday, 05, 19.00 -
Thursday, 05, 21.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Gary Comer Youth Center is hosting Lit Fest: Celebrating the Power of Black Literacy & Liberation — a Black History Month celebration exploring the many forms of literacy that shape our lives today and reimagining it as more than just words on a page. Through immersive workshops, performances, and conversations, Lit Fest explores literacy as a pathway to self-expression, wellness, financial empowerment, digital fluency, and cultural preservation.
The event will feature keynote discussions, performances, interactive workshops, author talks, and family-friendly activities designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Saturday, 28, 10.00 -
Saturday, 28, 16.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Welcome to the 2025 Future Black Educators Scholarship Gala!
Join us in person for an inspiring evening celebrating the next generation of Black educators. Connect, support, and uplift future leaders as we come together to make a difference. Expect great vibes, powerful stories, and a chance to be part of something meaningful!
Don’t miss out on this special night dedicated to honoring dreams and educational excellence. See you there!
Saturday, 28, 17.00 -
Saturday, 28, 20.30
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Welcome to the 38th Annual National Black Nurses Day Celebration!
Join us at the Apostolic Faith Church for a day of appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Black nurses. This in-person event will feature inspiring speeches, networking opportunities, and a celebration of the contributions of black nurses to the healthcare industry. The keynote speaker is Michelle Spikes Cain, Associate Nursing Director, Cook County Department of Public Health.
Don't miss this special opportunity to honor and recognize the vital role that Black nurses play in our communities. Mark your calendars and be part of this memorable celebration! Vendor presentations, Voter Registration, networking, refreshments, and free raffle gifts from 3 PM until 5 PM. Formal program begins at 5:00 PM.
Friday, 27, 15.00 -
Friday, 27, 19.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
In honor of Black History Month, come out and paint to the sounds of the r& b legends New Edition, BBD, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill & Boyz2Men!! This guided experience is designed for couples, friends, and solo guests who appreciate good music, good energy, and intentional vibes.
This is a "Chicago Curated Experience" where music sets the mood and painting brings everyone together.
What’s Included
All paint supplies
Light Bites (While supplies last)
Complimentary Wine tasting
New Edition + classic R&B playlist
Black Love–inspired atmosphere
BYOB
BYOB is welcomed
🎟️ Ticket Options
$110 – Couples Ticket + Food and Wine Tasting for 2
$60 – Solo Ticket + Food and Wine Tasting for 1
$35 - Painting Experience Only for 1
(Tax and Fees applied at check out)
Who This Event Is For
Couples looking to relax & reconnect.
Friends & besties.
Solo guests who enjoy art, R&B, and grown vibes.
All are welcome. Come as you are.
📍 Location
Art Center of Englewood
748 W 69th St
Chicago, IL
Event Flow (Suggested – adjust if needed)
Doors Open: 15 minutes before start time
Painting begins shortly after arrival
Music, sipping, and vibes throughout the evening
Additional Info
No refunds (all sales are final)
This is a 21+ event
Seating is limited
Arrive on time to get the full experience
Hosted By
LEE |Lela Eventiful Experience
Perfect for Valentine’s vibes, Black History Month celebrations, and anyone who loves R&B, art, and good energy.
Sunday, 22, 17.00 -
Sunday, 22, 19.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
BCOE Is On The MOVE!
Please join the Black Contractors Owners and Executives for our next General Meeting on Thursday, February 19th at 5PM-7PM at UJAMAA Construction, located at 7744 S Stony Island Ave., Chicago, IL 60649 - REGISTER TODAY!
FREE for all to attend.
Thursday, 19, 17.00 -
Thursday, 19, 19.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Attorney Kamran Memon has been practicing law in the Chicagoland area since 1997. He has successfully represented many clients in a variety of legal matters. Kamran works with a trusted network of attorneys who are experienced and skilled in a variety of legal areas.
Kamran graduated from the University of Chicago Law School, where he was a student of Professor Barack Obama.
Kamran is a co-founder of the Muslim Bar Association of Chicago and CAIR-Chicago. He is a member of the Muslim Bar Association of Chicago, the South Asian Bar Association of Chicago, the National Association of Muslim Lawyers, the Chicago chapter of the Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs, and the Illinois chapter of the National Employment Lawyers Association. He previously served as a member of the Illinois Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.
Kamran is a former host of Radio Islam on WCEV 1450 AM in Chicago. He is a co-founder of the Annual Chicagoland Muslim Community Thanksgiving Turkey Drive.
Established in 1996, the Law Offices of Kameli & Associates, P.C. is a full-service law firm with correspondent and satellite offices throughout the Chicagoland area. We have significant experience and a proven track record of success in immigration, Primarily focusing on EB-5 and E2 Visa. The firm also handles civil, criminal, and regulatory matters, and advises clients on a vast array of legal matters. Our clients include domestic and international corporations, foreign governments and entities, entrepreneurs, and private individuals.
Kameli & Associates is committed to offering the highest quality representation to our clients, while providing cost-effective and pragmatic advice and counsel. Our experienced attorneys and personnel are known for the quality relationships they establish with our clients, which, in turn, allows us to more fully understand and meet their goals and objectives. The ability to meet and exceed the goals of our clients has resulted in numerous referrals from past clients as well as referrals from other attorneys in the area and across the country.
We always welcome new clients and will strive to provide them with the same diligent, aggressive, yet cost-efficient representation that we have been offering for over a decade.
The Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. is a multi-service law firm established in 2000 in Chicago, Illinois. Our Chicago-based attorneys focus their practice in Immigration &; Naturalization Law, Divorce & Family Law, Business Law, and Criminal Law.