About the Chingon Award September 18th, 2026

ABOUT THE AWARDEES

Avance Democratic Club is proud to celebrate its Seventh Annual Chingona and Chingon Award Ceremony, recognizing outstanding leaders whose work has strengthened, uplifted, and empowered Latino communities throughout California.

The Chingona and Chingon Awards recognize individuals who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to Latino empowerment, civic engagement, justice, equity, opportunity, and community leadership. We honor leaders who stand up for others, open doors for future generations, and use their influence and platforms to create meaningful and lasting change.

Our 2026 Chingona and Chingon Award recipients—Congressman Pete Aguilar, Gina Zapanta, and Steven Holguin—represent that tradition of leadership, courage, service, and commitment.

Chingona Award — Gina Zapanta

Gina Zapanta's work as an attorney, entrepreneur, and community activist reflects a deep and unwavering commitment to justice, equity, economic opportunity, and service.

Through her legal expertise, business leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement, Gina has stood with working families, supported underrepresented communities, and helped ensure that Latino voices are heard in the spaces where consequential decisions are made.

As an entrepreneur, she has demonstrated the vision, discipline, and courage required not only to build and lead, but also to create opportunities for others. Her commitment to empowering people, fighting for fairness, and opening doors for the next generation embodies the very spirit of the Chingona Award.

Avance is proud to recognize Gina Zapanta for her leadership, advocacy, and exceptional contributions to our community.

Chingon Award — Steven Holguin

Steven Holguin's career as a labor attorney and community advocate reflects a longstanding commitment to justice, fairness, working families, and community empowerment.

Through his legal work and advocacy, Steven has used his expertise to ensure that individuals, workers, families, and communities have strong representation and a trusted voice when it matters most.

His work demonstrates the power of using one's profession not simply to achieve personal success, but to serve others, defend rights, expand opportunity, and open doors for those who follow.

Avance is honored to recognize Steven Holguin with the Chingon Award for his leadership, dedication, and service to working families and our community.

Chingon Award — Congressman Pete Aguilar

Congressman Pete Aguilar's career in public service reflects a steadfast commitment to working families, economic opportunity, strong communities, and representative government.

Representing California's 33rd Congressional District and serving as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, Congressman Aguilar has brought the priorities and voices of the Inland Empire to one of the highest levels of congressional leadership.

Throughout his public service, he has worked to advance opportunities for middle-class and working families, strengthen communities, expand educational and economic opportunity, and ensure that the voices of the people he represents are heard in Washington.

His deep roots in the Inland Empire, record of public service, and commitment to opening doors for future generations reflect the leadership and service at the heart of the Chingon Award.

Avance is proud to recognize Congressman Pete Aguilar for his distinguished leadership, public service, and contributions to California's Latino community.