The U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce Inter American Chapter, in coordination with the Mexican Cultural Institute, hosted the first annual “Ballet Boutique Award,” presented by the Ballet Boutique Company and its CEO, Gabriela Martinez de la Portilla, on Friday. Feb. 6.
De la Portilla moved from Merida, Yucatan and opened for business in South Miami two years ago. As a way to thank the Miami community for their acceptance and her business success, she has instituted this award in the U.S.
This year’s winner, 14-year-old, Monica Delgado, a freshman at the New World School of Arts, was presented the award by the honorable Consul General of Miami, Jose Antonio Zabalgoitia. Monica’s teacher and mentor, Rosario Suarez, principal dancer with the National Ballet of Cuba (1968-1995) and faculty member at the New World School of Arts, was in attendance at the ceremony.
The winner is selected by faculty from among qualified students at the public school. The winner must fill three criteria: high academic standing, distinguished ballerina and demonstrate financial need.
