RICHFIELD, MN — As the tech and business community gathered for #Minnebar20 at the Best Buy Headquarters on Saturday, May 2, 2026, the conversation extended far beyond code and software. Juan Llerena, Executive Director of Vamos Impact, took the stage to champion a more inclusive vision for the region’s future, positioning community connection as the cornerstone of economic and educational growth.
During his session, “The Community Connection: Strategic Marketing, Outreach, and PR for Community Leaders,” Llerena served as a bridge between high-level strategy and grassroots impact. While the workshop provided tactical roadmaps for leaders, its heart centered on a singular mission: ensuring that no part of the community—particularly the Latino population—is left operating in a silo.
Building a Bridge for All
Llerena, widely recognized as a “Community Connector,” utilized the platform to demonstrate how strategic communication can dismantle barriers. By sharing the Elev@te Framework and inclusive outreach strategies, he highlighted the necessity of moving “beyond the lens” to reach non-English speaking community members and aspiring entrepreneurs.
“A thriving community isn’t built on noise; it’s built on authentic connections,” Llerena noted. “When we align our vision with the actual needs of our neighbors, we stop just ‘marketing’ and start leading toward a better future for everyone.”
Strengthening the Latino Ecosystem
Under Llerena’s leadership, Vamos Impact has become a vital force in Minnesota, focused on two primary pillars:
- Economic Development: Providing Latino entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and strategic roadmaps needed to build sustainable businesses.
- Education: Ensuring accessible paths to professional growth and digital literacy, helping individuals navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape.
The presentation at Minnebar20 served as a call to action for the broader ecosystem to recognize that the success of Latino-led initiatives is inextricably linked to the prosperity of the entire state.
A Call for Partnership
The work of shaping a better community requires a collective effort. Following the success of the Minnebar20 session, Vamos Impact is actively seeking to expand its network of supporters who share a commitment to economic equity and educational excellence.
We invite stakeholders across all sectors to join us in this mission:
- Government Agencies looking to enhance inclusive outreach and program implementation.
- Private Corporations seeking to invest in the next generation of diverse business leaders.
- Foundations dedicated to sustainable community development and education.
- Individual Supporters who believe in the power of a connected, thriving community.
Together, we can ensure that the “Community Connection” is not just a workshop title, but a lived reality for every Minnesotan.
Join the Movement
To learn more about our current initiatives or to discuss how your organization can support economic development and education for Latinos in Minnesota and beyond, please reach out to us directly.
Contact: Juan Llerena, Executive Director Vamos Impact Email: info@vamosimpact.org Website: www.vamosimpact.org
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