A standing ovation marked the moment as industry legend Steve Mandala was officially inducted into the 2025 HMC Hall of Fame. With an unforgettable introduction by Gian Pablo Kates, VP of Client Advocacy at Telemundo Group, the ceremony became a heartfelt tribute to a leader whose influence has shaped the Hispanic marketing landscape for decades.
Gian Pablo Kates opened the tribute with personal reflections that spoke to both the depth of Steve’s professional achievements and the impact of his mentorship and vision.
“Steve Mandala is a rare kind of leader—strategic, compassionate, and fiercely committed to the Hispanic community,” Kates shared. “He didn’t just build opportunities; he built people. And in doing so, he helped shape an industry that now sees culture not as a side strategy, but as the heart of business growth.”
Steve Mandala’s legacy spans leadership roles in major media networks, where he championed authentic multicultural marketing long before it became industry standard. He was instrumental in helping brands understand the cultural nuance, passion, and economic power of Latino audiences, shifting narratives and unlocking untapped potential across markets.
His induction into the Hall of Fame recognizes both innovation and advocacy—a celebration of someone who didn’t just lead from the top, but elevated others along the way.
Taking the stage to accept the honor, Mandala spoke from the heart. “It’s great to be here—and I am kind of overwhelmed, to be honest with you. I love being part of this industry, and I hope I can continue in any kind of way, because we find a way to be good and do well at the same time. This is a multi-billion dollar industry—and it’s here to stay. The teams that I’ve worked with—clients and bosses—have been the best. Tonight, we also honor Raul Serrano, Steve Levin, Randy Fallo, and Keith Levin.”
The 2025 HMC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony wasn’t just a recognition of a career—it was a celebration of cultural leadership, human impact, and the power of representation. And at the center of it all was Steve Mandala, a trailblazer whose work has inspired a generation and redefined what it means to lead with purpose.
