_{Video & Photos by Pedro Martin @the.pedrucer}

There are evenings that celebrate achievement, and then there are evenings that remind us why achievement matters.

The 2026 Cielo Gala, presented by the Latino Commission on AIDS, brought together an extraordinary group of leaders, advocates, healthcare professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and visionaries—all united by one purpose: improving lives and supporting the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.

JEZ Magazine was honored to attend this inspiring event and to sit down with many of the remarkable individuals whose work continues to make a meaningful difference. Throughout the evening, I had the privilege of speaking with people who have dedicated years—and in some cases, decades—of their lives to research, education, public health, advocacy, fundraising, and community service.

As someone who has spent my career telling stories through fashion, photography, and publishing, evenings like this remind me that every story has the power to inspire action. What moved me most wasn’t simply the accomplishments of those we interviewed—it was their generosity, their compassion, and their unwavering commitment to helping others.

Listening to physicians discuss decades of HIV research, advocates speak about creating safe and inclusive communities, business leaders investing in access to healthcare, and artists using their platforms to inspire change left me feeling hopeful about what can be accomplished when people come together with purpose.

My sincere hope is that continued research, education, awareness, and collaboration will bring us even closer to a future where HIV is no longer a public health crisis. Every conversation from this evening served as a reminder that meaningful progress is made not only through science, but through compassion, leadership, and community.

I invite you to watch these exclusive JEZ Magazine interviews and meet some of the extraordinary individuals whose work is changing lives every day.

Honey Balenciaga

Ballroom Icon & Activist

Honey Balenciaga has become one of the most recognizable voices within the ballroom community, using her platform to advocate for inclusion, visibility, and empowerment. During our conversation, she shares her thoughts on representation, authenticity, and why supporting organizations like the Latino Commission on AIDS remains so important.

TRISTAN SCHUKRAFT

CEO, MISTR

Healthcare entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft discusses expanding access to HIV prevention and healthcare while sharing his vision for innovation and community impact. His leadership demonstrates how business can be used to improve lives and increase access to care.

LINA BRADFORD

DJ & Television Personality

Known for bringing people together through music, positivity, and entertainment, Lina Bradford reflects on community, celebration, and why evenings like the Cielo Gala continue to inspire hope and connection.

MILAGROS MEDINA-CERDEIRA

Award-Winning Broadway & Hollywood Makeup Artist

Milagros Medina-Cerdeira discusses a remarkable career in the entertainment industry while reflecting on artistry, mentorship, and giving back through community involvement.

MARIO J. PÉREZ, MPH

Director, HIV & STD Programs

Mario J. Pérez shares his perspective on public health, education, HIV prevention, and the importance of continued collaboration to improve healthcare outcomes for communities across the country.

DR. YVETTE CALDERON

Physician & HIV Research Advocate

After decades dedicated to HIV research and patient care, Dr. Yvette Calderon reflects on the progress that has been made, the challenges that remain, and the importance of continued medical research and education.

GEORGE FESSER

Luxury Real Estate Advisor

George Fesser discusses leadership, philanthropy, and the importance of supporting organizations that continue to improve lives through education, advocacy, and community engagement.

ANDY DIAZ

Public Relations Executive

Andy Diaz shares his thoughts on communication, building meaningful relationships, and using public relations to amplify organizations and causes that create lasting positive change.

D’ANGELO THOMPSON

Emmy Award-Winning Hair & Makeup Artist, Author & Educator

Creativity, mentorship, and education are central themes of this inspiring conversation with Emmy Award-winning artist D’Angelo Thompson, whose work continues to influence the beauty industry and the next generation of professionals.

RAUL PEÑARANDA

Womenswear Designer

Fashion designer Raul Peñaranda discusses creativity, craftsmanship, and the responsibility that comes with using fashion to inspire, connect, and give back to the community.

DENNIS HOWARD

East Coast Regional Retail Market Manager, Room & Board

Dennis Howard reflects on leadership, community engagement, and why supporting organizations like the Latino Commission on AIDS is so important. His perspective highlights how business leaders can contribute to creating stronger, healthier communities.

A FINAL THOUGHT

The Cielo Gala is much more than an annual celebration. It is a reminder of what can be accomplished when people from different professions and backgrounds come together with a shared commitment to improving lives.

JEZ Magazine extends its sincere gratitude to the Latino Commission on AIDS, the event organizers, sponsors, honorees, and every guest who generously shared their time and their stories with us.

To everyone dedicating their lives to research, healthcare, education, advocacy, philanthropy, and community leadership—thank you. Your work gives hope, creates opportunity, and reminds us that meaningful change is always possible when we work together.

We look forward to continuing to share stories that celebrate innovation, compassion, creativity, and the extraordinary people making a positive impact around the world.

— Ezequiel De La Rosa
Editor-in-Chief, JEZ Magazine