About Nuestra Reina Hillsborough

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.

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.

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.

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.

Chief Communications Coordinator 

Luz Gaona, renowned bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of Southshore Bilingual Therapy, Inc., dedicates over four decades to empowering children. Her journey, from adversity to success, fuels her mission to provide comprehensive care. Through Inspira Tampa Bay, Inc., she fosters inclusion and sponsors emerging Latina leaders, enriching our community.

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.

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.

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.

Host, Judging  & Tabulating Coordinator 

Brianda Villegas, a board member and emcee for Nuestra Reina Hillsborough Scholarship Pageant, is a familiar face from WFLA News Channel 8, where she serves as a bilingual feature reporter and fill-in anchor. A UF graduate, she's passionate about empowering young Hispanic women through scholarship pageants, driven by her own transformative journey

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.

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.