The Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted its monthly luncheon and networking event at the Miami Lakes Hotel on Main, bringing together local business leaders, civic representatives, and community members. The highlight of the event was keynote speaker Maria Carla Chicuén, Executive Director of Cultural Affairs for Miami-Dade College, whose remarks focused on the College’s plans to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the iconic Freedom Tower.
The Freedom Tower, which reopened on September 16, 2025, now features newly reimagined museum galleries that explore its rich history and ongoing role in Miami’s story. From its early days as the home of The Miami Daily News to its use as a refugee center, the Tower has long symbolized opportunity and resilience. “The Freedom Tower captures Miami’s past while shaping its future,” Chicuén said. Visitors can explore the building’s history through immersive exhibits and even share their own stories, making the Tower a living testament to generations of quests for freedom. The project received $25 million from the Florida Governor’s Office, along with funding from the Florida Department of State, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and other state and national arts organizations.
Chicuén also highlighted Miami-Dade College’s broader cultural programs, including the Miami Book Fair, Miami Film Festival, Freedom Tower, Museum of Art & Design, Koubek Center, and Live Arts Miami, noting the College’s role in fostering community engagement and cultural collaboration. With a career spanning leadership roles at CasaCuba and the World Bank, and board positions with the Celia Cruz Foundation and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Chicuén brings a wealth of experience in cultural affairs and education advocacy.
The luncheon also featured spotlight presentations from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Town of Miami Lakes’ Vision Zero initiative. St. Jude, known for treating some of the most challenging pediatric diseases, ensures no family ever receives a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food, allowing parents to focus entirely on their child’s care. The hospital treats children with cancer, blood disorders, neurological conditions, infectious diseases, and other life-threatening illnesses, often through clinical trials designed to advance research.
Vision Zero aims to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries in Miami Lakes by 2040. Supported by a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant, the initiative focuses on safer street design, public education, equitable enforcement, and community collaboration. Residents are encouraged to provide input to ensure the plan reflects local needs and experiences.
The event offered ample opportunity for networking and dialogue between business leaders and public officials. Council Members Juan Carlos Fernandez and Angelo Cuadra Garcia attended, underscoring the importance of collaboration between government, business, and community groups. Chicuén’s presentation, with its focus on the Freedom Tower, left a strong impression, highlighting how cultural and educational initiatives can preserve history while inspiring future generations.
Looking ahead, the Miami Lakes Chamber’s next luncheon is scheduled for October 8, 2025, featuring Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava as the guest speaker. The spotlight presentation will showcase Strive305, a local organization promoting health, wellness, and community engagement. The event promises another opportunity for the Miami Lakes business community to connect, learn, and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen both the local and regional community.
