Last Thursday was a historical night in West Columbia.

Special guests West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles and Midlands Tech’s Tom Ledbetter spoke at the Mota Crosslinking Business Academy to highlight successful Latino businesses and celebrate Hispanic heritage.

It was the first SC Latino Business Day celebration hosted by Vanessa Mota and Ulises Chavez of Anglo Latino Promotions. Mota is a multicultural expert and founder of the Mota Crosslinking Business Academy.

A group of 20 were greeted with masks and temperature checks.

The event, which also streamed live, reached several countries and gave recognition to the positive contributions the Latin entrepreneurial community has made in the Midlands.

Bayron Salas of BCS International was awarded Business of the Year.
Local artist Zachary Diaz was the Art in Business spotlight. Many others entrepreneurs were present to celebrate and share Hispanic heritage with the community.

After the ceremony, attendees were treated to a traditional Mexican dance and several Latin countries were profiled.
After the presentations food was served and a networking session took place.

After the event, Mota announced Mota Crosslinking Business Academy will soon be providing business classes to the community. She said her intent is to provide helpful information to all current and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking guidance.