Samantha Varela, Procurement Inclusion & Diversity Administrator for American Honda, was recently recognized for her dedication and commitment to Inclusion at the Latin Business Association’s Annual Women’s Business Luncheon.

“I see my position at American Honda, and my efforts in the community, as raising the voice of diverse suppliers so they can continue to make a difference in the economy, community and their individual lives,” Varela said. “Advocating for equity, diversity and inclusion is one of the best feelings in the world, especially when I hear a diverse supplier won a bid.”

Recently, the Latin Business Association (LBA) awarded Varela the “Women of the Year Award” in Supplier Diversity. This award is presented to female leaders who are making a difference for their company and those who go out of their way to help further equitable business relationships in the community.

Varela goes above and beyond by coaching suppliers on how to approach corporations and educating them on how to approach business with American Honda. She has been in her role since 2016 and frequently sits on panels where supplier diversity is the topic. American Honda has been a partner of the LBA for more than 20 years and supports the Women’s Luncheon and annual Sol Business Awards Gala.

The organization’s chair, Dr. Ruben Guerra, and his team have connections to over 800,000 suppliers in California, as well as throughout the United States, which Varela said is helpful when it comes to looking for diverse suppliers.

“What I like about the organization is that it doesn’t just serve the Hispanic community,” Varela said. “The association and its programs, such as the Supplier Diversity Training Boot Camp, are available to all regardless of race. “When Honda has an opportunity, we reach out to organizations such as the LBA to source qualified diverse suppliers,” she added. “Supplier Diversity has come a long way, and although we still have a lot of work to do, we should celebrate how far we’ve come.”