I had the absolute pleasure and honor of being invited back to document the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s (MiHC) annual Gran Fiesta in Detroit!

Gran Fiesta is a beautiful celebration of culture, community, and achievement, honoring MiHC’s graduating high school and college scholars as they take their next steps—whether that’s college, trade school, an apprenticeship, graduate school, or beginning their careers.

A woman in a blue blazer shakes the hand of a young man in a blue polo shirt with black high top tables in the background.

Two young men look at backpacks in a cardboard box sitting on a table.

A couple stand and smile at a young man while standing in a hallway decorated with papel picado.

The evening is filled with music, food, giveaways, and so many joyful moments. One of my favorite parts of photographing events like this is capturing the moments in between: proud parents celebrating their children, hugs between friends, laughter, and all of the little interactions that tell the bigger story of the day.

A woman smiles and holds a ladle while serving mango juice to a family with a young boy.

A young woman in a blue blazer stands and smiles while speaking into a microphone behind a podium.

A young woman wearing a blazer speaks into a microphone behind a podium.

MiHC does incredible work supporting first-generation students by providing resources, mentorship, and connections throughout their educational and professional journeys. It’s clear how much this community stands behind its scholars and reminds them that they always have people in their corner.

A board with college and university logos and names attached to them stands while two people stand in front of it, looking at the board.

Three women smile at one another while talking to one another in a hallway.

A young woman wearing a Henry Ford College Tshirt smiles while talking to two other people in front of their table.

A document that reads "senior checklist" sits on a table on top of another brochure and a pen.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to document this organization doing meaningful work in their Detroit community. The event feels genuine, joyful, and true to the people who make them special.

Two young women look through a rack of professional business clothing while holding purses and backpacks during the MiHC Gran Fiesta.

A young man hugs a woman in a hallway decorated with papel picado.

Congratulations to all of the MiHC scholars and graduates! Massive thank you to Amanda, Faith, and Jen for inviting me back!