Catalina’s ‘Essence of Latinas’ National Tour.

No-nonsense TV Judge Cristina Perez, Actress and DIY Network Host Jackie Guerra, and Actress Estephania LeBaron come together on Thursday, March 18, for Catalina magazine’s 2nd annual “Essence of Latinas” event. The Latina leaders share their inspirational stories during the 3-hour evening event which also includes a silent auction, with all proceeds benefiting an LA-based Hispanic-run arts education program. The event is part of Catalina’s annual “Essence of Latinas” tour, which provides attendees with information, inspiration, and entertainment during a program highlighting the Latina community. KTLA’s Analia Samo Riggle is the event emcee, and her co-worker, evening anchor Lynette Romero, one of the evening’s guest speakers. KTLA, the top-rated LA station, is also providing a silent auction item: a “KTLA Morning News” visit for up to 4 people. Other auctioned items include: a 16-inch square fused glass platter by Latina artist Licha Ochoa Nicholson, a Venetian Italian glass bead bracelet by Latina jewelry designer Diana Hernandez, and more. Thanks to the City of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department, the event also recognizes the accomplishments of a groundbreaking Latina, Brandy Maya Healy, who will receive a “Groundbreaking Latina in the Arts” award, and a trip to Washington D.C. for Hispanic Heritage Month. “The event gives us an opportunity to network, have fun, get inspired, and give back to our community,” says CATALINA publisher Cathy Areu. “I’m just proud to be a part of it.”