MANA de Imperial Valley will once again shine a spotlight on extraordinary Latina women whose leadership, innovation and generosity have left a mark on the community. The organization recently announced the 2025 Las Primeras recipients: Angie Garcia, Jessi Preciado and Angie Ruiz.

The honorees will be celebrated during the Las Primeras Gala & Scholarship Fundraiser on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, at 6 p.m. at 796 W. Evan Hewes Hwy in El Centro. This year’s theme, “Words of Wisdom: A Celebration of Vibrant Sayings,” highlights the power of cultural heritage and collective guidance passed through generations.

A humbling honor

For recipient Jessi Preciado of Holtville, the recognition came as an overwhelming surprise.

“It blew my mind when they told me I was going to be nominated. I thought, “

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