The 26th International Families and Fathers Conference Building Bridges
Dates: April 8–11, 2025
Open to the Public and all Conference Attendees, Speakers, Vendors, and Guests

Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Hilton LAX Hotel, International Ballroom
5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045

An Evening to Celebrate and Inspire Excellence Join us for an exclusive and unforgettable night at the Drs. Ramon and Yolanda Nieves Family Affair Celebration, a signature event where inspiration meets entertainment. This elegant evening brings together a select group of honorees, awardees, and leaders committed to strengthening families and communities. Celebrate the Father of the Year and Couple of Excellence Award honorees and enjoy captivating performances, enriching connections, and a luxurious dining experience.

How to Participate

  2025_Annual_Gala_Purchase_Tickets_Announcement__compressed.pdf

Secure Your Tickets:

1. Conference Attendees: Add your ticket to your registration here: Add Ticket to Registration.
2. Dinner  Tickets: For non-conference attendees and the public, purchase tickets here: Purchase Gala Tickets.

   CLOSING CELEBRATION  AGENDA
   5:00 PM to 9:30 PM

   Welcome Cocktail Hour
   5:00 PM to 6:00 PM

   Dinner Stations Open Highlighted by Chef Carlos' Italian Dinner
   6:00 PM to 7:00 PM 

   Awards Show
   6:30 PM to 7: 00 PM

   Dance Entertainment and Bachata - Salsa - Merengue Lessons
   Leslie Ferreira, Bachata. Artistic Director and Choreographer
   All guests are encouraged to join Leslie to dance the night away with live performance by Paris Escovedo
   7:00 PM to 8:30 PM

   Dance and Closing
   8:30 PM to 9:30 PM

2025 Honorees

Join us for an extraordinary night of celebration, entertainment, and inspiration at the Drs. Ramon and Yolanda Nieves Family Affair Celebration Dinner and Awards. This signature event honors exceptional individuals and couples who significantly contribute to family well-being and community impact. The evening will feature:

• The prestigious 2025 Awards recognize outstanding honorees.
• A luxurious dining experience.
• World-class entertainment by two internationally acclaimed performers.

2025 Awards & Honorees

Dr. Ramon & Dr. Yolanda Nieves 2025 Honorees

Honoring those whose work has significantly impacted families and communities worldwide.

The Honorable Stanley Seiderman Father of the Year Award Honorees

Recognizing remarkable fathers who exemplify love, commitment, and leadership in their families and communities.

• Allan Shedlin – Chevy Chase, Maryland (Keynote Speaker for the Evening)
• Carlos Varguez – Rancho Cucamonga, California
• Michael Benoit – Rancho Cucamonga, California
• Cristian Orellana – Corona, California

Couples of Excellence Honorees

Celebrating married couples who embody love, resilience, and dedication to their families and communities.

• Terron & Chrystal Edwards – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Samuel & Annel Mwangi – Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
• Colin & Rosina McAlpine – New South Wales, Australia
• Jose & Chalsea-Lee Chombe – Roland Hills, California
• Imam Abu Ishaq & Safiya Abdul Hafiz – Long Beach, California

Honorable John S. Martinez Leader of the Year Award

Honoring a visionary leader who has made a transformational impact on families and communities.

• Judge Lauren Lake – A nationally recognized American family lawyer, television judge, and talk show host, best known for Lauren Lake's Paternity Court.

Dr. Sherry P. Ulmer Pioneer Award

Presented to a trailblazing leader who has dedicated their career to advancing family well-being, justice, and social change.

• Imam Abu Ishaq Abdul Hafiz – A distinguished former Federal Bureau of Prisons Muslim Chaplain, leader in prison outreach, and the resident Imam at Masjid Al Shareef in Long Beach, CA.

How to Participate?

Secure Your Tickets

1. Conference Attendees: Add a  Ticket to your registration here.
2. Gala-Only Tickets: Open to the public. Purchase your ticket here.

Ticket Pricing

• Individual Ticket:
  • $60.00 (ends 3/31/25)
  • $85.00 (ends 4/7/25) No ticket sales after 4/7/25
• Table of 8
  • $480.00 (ends 3/31/25)
  • $600.00 (ends 4/5/25) No ticket sales after 4/5/25

Public ticket sales close on April 5, 2025. No onsite ticket sales unless pre-registered.

Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring the Paris Escovedo Band, a celebrated partner of the Fathers and Families Coalition of America. Paris Escovedo, a multi-talented musician, actor, and producer, is a true pioneer in the world of Latin jazz and percussion. As a former Father of the Year Honoree of the Fathers and Families Coalition of America, Paris embodies the values of family, leadership, and artistry. Together with his wife, Brenda Escovedo, they have been steadfast supporters of FFCA, consistently using their platform to inspire and uplift communities.

Hailing from Oakland, California, Paris carries the rich musical legacy of his father, the legendary Thomas "Coke" Escovedo, who toured with Santana and co-wrote the classic hit "No One To Depend On." From an early age, Paris was mentored by some of the greatest musicians in history, receiving his first set of timbales from the King of Latin Jazz himself, Tito Puente. His passion for music led him to craft his own distinctive sound known as "Ghetto Jazz", a vibrant fusion of Urban Funk, Soul, Latin Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Afro-Cuban rhythms.

An Electrifying Performer & Musical Innovator

Paris Escovedo’s musical journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has performed, toured, and recorded with Grammy Award-winning artists such as:
Lauryn Hill
Angie Stone
Bobby Brown
Pink
Shaun Mullins
Arrested Development
Vitamin C
Speech
Collective Soul
Najee
Peter White
Mark Brown
The Dazz Band
Howard Johnson

His high-energy live performances have graced renowned venues across the United States, including Denver, Pasadena, and Los Angeles, where he frequently collaborates with world-class musicians to create soul-stirring musical experiences.

A Legacy of Musical Excellence

Paris’s music is a lively celebration of culture and sound, offering an eclectic mix that transcends genres and resonates with audiences from all backgrounds. His discography is a testament to his innovation and passion, with albums such as:

"Legacy" – A powerful blend of rhythm and soul that showcases his deep musical roots.
"Muevelo, Muevelo" – A dynamic album that brings Latin Jazz to life with infectious energy.

Some of his most beloved tracks include:
"Legacy" – The title track that defines his signature sound.
"Muevelo, Muevelo" – A lively anthem that electrifies dance floors.
"Aunque No Estés" – A deeply emotional piece showcasing his soulful depth.
"Todo Se Me Olvida" – A melody that resonates with fans across generations.
"La Guaracha" – A rhythmic masterpiece that embodies his musical heritage.

More Than a Musician – A Leader, Husband & Father

Beyond the stage, Paris is an amazing leader, devoted husband, and loving father. His impact goes far beyond his music, as he continuously gives back to his community through mentorship, advocacy, and family-centered initiatives. Together with Brenda, they stand as role models of love, dedication, and unity, inspiring families everywhere.

A Night You Won't Forget

Prepare to be swept away by the infectious rhythms and mesmerizing beats of Paris Escovedo Live! His high-energy timbale performance, masterful storytelling through music, and undeniable stage presence will make this gala an unforgettable experience.

Join us at the Drs. Ramon & Yolanda Nieves Family Affair Gala as we celebrate the power of music, culture, and family with one of the greatest Latin jazz artists of our time.

Reserve your spot now for an evening of rhythm, passion, and inspiration!

Leslie Ferreira is a renowned choreographer and dancer, celebrated for her dynamic performances and expertise in various dance styles, including Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, and Samba. She has showcased her talent on major television shows such as ABC's "Dancing with the Stars," VH1's "Celebrity Couples Therapy," and Bravo's "MatchMaker Millionaire." Leslie also serves as the Latin dance instructor at Los Angeles' esteemed 3rd Street Dance studio, where she has taught numerous celebrities. Her impressive choreography portfolio includes collaborations with notable companies like Guess, Von Dutch, Kraft Foods, and Kohl's Department Stores 

Leslie's international acclaim has led her to perform alongside legendary Latin artists such as Oscar De Leon, Prince Royce, Toby Love, Xtreme, and Loisaidas. She is the creator and director of the internationally recognized Bachata Caliente Dance Company, known for its unique choreography and sensual style of Bachata. Additionally, Leslie co-produces the L.A. International Bachata Festival, further showcasing her dedication to promoting Latin dance.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

This is more than a gala—it celebrates excellence, culture, and connection. With limited space and tickets selling fast, do not miss your chance to attend this extraordinary event.

Register Now  

We cannot wait to welcome you to an evening of inspiration and celebration!