About Us

Nuestra *Reina Hillsboroough

evento nuestra reina Hillsborough

“Nuestra Reina Hillsborough” is a scholarship pageant empowering Hispanic girls through mentorship, transcending traditional beauty standards to focus on personal and academic development.

Our Vision

Nuestra Reina-Hillsborough Scholarship Pageant is dedicated to nurturing future Hispanic women leaders through community engagement, educational support, and mentorship. Embark on a transformative journey with us, celebrating Hispanic elegance and empowerment in Hillsborough County, Florida. Our pageant offers a unique platform for young Hispanic women aged 5 to 18 to cultivate confidence, leadership, and cultural pride while showcasing their talents. With a focus on community service, networking, mentorship, fashion, and entertainment, we elevate the voices of emerging Latina leaders, providing them with opportunities for growth and recognition. Join us and be part of a legacy that celebrates the brilliance, resilience, and aspirations of Latina leaders.

Our Mission

"Nuestra Reina Hillsborough" is a scholarship pageant empowering Hispanic girls through mentorship, transcending traditional beauty standards to focus on personal and academic development. With growing support, winners across age categories are crowned, embodying solidarity and empowerment within Hillsborough's Hispanic community.

It takes a village!

Meet “Los Padrinos,”  Our  Board.

Rocio Smith

Executive Director

Rocio Smith, a seasoned banking executive with 20 years of experience, excels in strategic planning, relationship management, and regulatory compliance. As Market President at Achieva Credit Union, she drives growth and community impact with integrity and innovation.

Joe Zuniga

Chief Media & Public Relations Officer

From Miami to Tampa Bay, Joe Zuniga, known as ‘Mr. Tampa,’ shares his story of redemption and success. Despite adversity, he pursued music, winning awards and releasing a book. Inspired by his mother, he now inspires others through music and storytelling, aiming to uplift those facing challenges.

Dj Moyo

Host & Web Development 

From Tampa, FL, former migrant worker DJ Moyo is a dynamic DJ and MC, known for his radio mix show ‘El Arranke Mix!’ With over 20 years of experience blending hip-hop, pop, and regional Mexican rhythms, he’s proud of his heritage and brings unmatched energy to his performances, aiming to entertain globally.

Jessica de la Prida

Head of Talent Acquisition 

Jessica De La Prida, an educator with 20+ years’ experience, champions inclusive learning and community engagement. Holding a master’s in educational leadership, she empowers diverse students and families for academic, economic, and social success. As Hispanic & Multicultural Outreach Coordinator, she leads initiatives for equitable education in Hillsborough County Public Schools.

Alma Juarez

Chief Sales Strategist 

A compassionate banker, serves on the board of a NRH, treating contestants as her own daughters. Going above and beyond, she ensures their well-being and success, embodying a nurturing spirit. Passionate about empowering young women, Alma’s dedication shines through her commitment to education and mentorship.

Julio perez

Lead Marketing Innovator

Julio Perez, owner of FestiTrips.com, boasts over 20 years in the entertainment industry, specializing in marketing. Alongside his travel agency, he manages artists, leveraging his wealth of experience to provide top-tier services in both fields.

Solle Rico

Talent Director

Solle Rico is an entrepreneur, model, beauty queen, TV presenter, and fashion designer, hailing from Maracaibo, Venezuela. At 25, she has resided in the United States for 8 years. Having taught at the Miss Venezuela academy in Maracaibo, she clinched the Miss Latina Tampa 2016 title and currently serves as a TV host on Channel 8 Tampa Bay. Solle also owns Solle Boutique and is dedicated to coaching beauty pageant contestants, realizing her lifelong dream.

Julia sarmiento cohen

Director of Educational Advancement

Julia Sarmiento-Cohen, Resiliency, Character, and Life Skills Education Supervisor at Hillsborough County Public Schools, has dedicated her career to education. With a bachelor’s degree in English and American Literature, and a master’s in Educational Leadership, she’s earned accolades for her leadership and community advocacy. Raised in Wimauma, FL, she remains committed to educational excellence.

Mercedes “Mercy” Brown

Director of pageant logistics

Mercy, a Tampa resident for 25+ years, earned her Masters in education from USF. She dedicated over 23 years to Hillsborough schools before becoming a Language Support Specialist in Pasco County. Passionate about international missions, she founded a non-profit aiding El Salvador and Ecuador.