We recently connected with Yuri Cunza and have shared our conversation below.
Yuri, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
A Defining Risk: Bridging Communities Through Media and Advocacy
One of the most significant risks I’ve taken in my career was launching La Noticia Newspaper Nashville, a Spanish-language publication, in March 2003. At the time, Nashville’s Hispanic community was growing rapidly, yet there was a lack of accessible, vital information in Spanish to help newcomers navigate the city. While a handful of Spanish-language publications existed, they primarily focused on national or international news, leaving a gap in local reporting, community voices, and practical resources that many Hispanic residents needed.
I was deeply involved in the arts and filmmaking, but I recognized an urgent need for a platform that could inform, connect, and empower our community. La Noticia Newspaper Nashville was born from this vision—to provide not only news but also a voice for local businesses, families, and civic leaders. It was an endeavor fueled by passion but marked by uncertainty. With only the support of two close friends, Loraine Segovia and Esteban Zavala, I stepped away from a traditional media career to build something entirely new—without investors, a clear market precedent, or certainty that local businesses would advertise.
My involvement in media and the professional relationships I had built over the years became invaluable. These connections helped foster support from the local community, allowing us to gain credibility and establish La Noticia Newspaper Nashville as a trusted voice for Hispanic residents in Middle Tennessee. Yet, the challenge was more than just financial—it was also deeply tied to the socio-political climate. Anti-immigrant rhetoric was rising, and policies such as English-only proposals and restrictions on Hispanic-owned businesses created real barriers. Launching a publication that openly addressed these issues, advocated for small businesses, and encouraged civic engagement was both necessary and bold.
Despite the obstacles, La Noticia Newspaper found its audience and built trust within the community, ultimately laying the foundation for my broader advocacy work. My involvement in the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (initially as a board member representing La Noticia) deepened my commitment to economic empowerment and civic leadership.
Taking this risk reshaped my career, but more importantly, it reinforced the power of media, entrepreneurship, and community engagement in creating opportunities. It was a leap of faith that paid off—not just in business success, but in the lasting impact it has had on individuals and organizations striving for growth and representation.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
About Me & My Work: Bridging Business, Media, and Advocacy
I am Yuri Cunza, President & CEO of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC), a media professional, entrepreneur, and advocate dedicated to fostering economic growth, business empowerment, and inclusive opportunities. My journey into this space has been shaped by my passion for storytelling, media, and business advocacy—three pillars that have allowed me to create platforms that inform, connect, and empower Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals.
My background spans media, publishing, and the arts, but my entrepreneurial spirit led me to launch La Noticia Nashville in 2003, recognizing the need for a Spanish-language publication focused on local news, resources, and business opportunities. This endeavor was about more than just journalism—it was about giving a voice to a growing yet underserved Hispanic community in Middle Tennessee. Through this work, I became deeply involved in economic development and business advocacy, ultimately leading to my role at NAHCC.
At NAHCC, our mission is to advocate for, promote, and facilitate the success of Hispanic businesses. We provide a network of resources, educational programs, and strategic alliances that help entrepreneurs thrive. We work on key issues such as access to capital, business certification, procurement opportunities, and policy advocacy to ensure that Hispanic-owned businesses—many of which are small but growing rapidly—can compete in an evolving economy.
What sets my work apart is the intersection of media, business, and advocacy. I don’t just run an organization; I champion the voices of business owners, help shape policies that foster economic inclusion, and create opportunities for businesses to scale and succeed. I believe in the power of storytelling—whether in print, digital platforms, or public policy—to elevate our community, share our contributions, and drive meaningful change.
I take great pride in the impact we’ve had at NAHCC, from launching entrepreneurship programs to forming key partnerships that open doors for Hispanic businesses at the local, state, and national levels. Serving on the Board of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) has further strengthened my ability to advocate for Hispanic businesses on a national scale.
For those looking to connect, work together, or become involved, I want people to know that our efforts are about more than just business—they’re about building an ecosystem where Hispanic entrepreneurs have the tools, resources, and representation needed to succeed. Whether through media, policy, or business development, my work is driven by the idea that when one of us succeeds, our entire community prospers.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Building a Reputation in My Market
Establishing a strong reputation in my market has been the result of dedication, consistency, and a deep commitment to service. From the very beginning of my journey—whether in media, advocacy, or business leadership—I have focused on building trust, fostering connections, and delivering real value to the Hispanic business community.
As the founder of La Noticia Newspaper Nashville, I recognized the urgent need for relevant, locally focused Spanish-language media at a time when many Hispanic residents lacked access to critical information. By ensuring that our publication was not just a news source, but a bridge for community engagement and economic opportunity, we earned the trust of our audience and business partners.
My work at the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) further strengthened my reputation as an advocate for Hispanic entrepreneurs. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship initiatives, and policy advocacy, I have helped position our chamber as a key player in economic development and small business success.
Additionally, my involvement on a national level as a Board Member of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) has expanded my ability to bring attention to key issues affecting Hispanic businesses across the country. By engaging with policymakers, business leaders, and stakeholders, I’ve reinforced my role as someone who brings solutions to the table, not just discussions. This has allowed me to advocate for policies that drive economic growth, push for more opportunities for Hispanic business owners, and amplify the voice of our entrepreneurial community at the highest levels.
Another important factor in building my reputation has been consistency and visibility. I have always been present—whether at community events, in media interviews, or on industry panels—advocating for Hispanic entrepreneurs and small businesses. This visibility has reinforced my credibility and allowed me to build lasting relationships with business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders.
Being selected as Event Chair for the 2025 USHCC Legislative Summit is a continuation of this journey. At a time when Hispanic business owners are navigating economic uncertainty, this role allows me to elevate our collective voice on the national stage and push for policies that empower our businesses.
Ultimately, what has helped me build my reputation is my genuine passion for serving others. I don’t see my work as just professional—it’s personal. My goal has always been to empower, connect, and advocate for Hispanic businesses and entrepreneurs, ensuring they are recognized for their contributions and have the resources they need to succeed. I believe that when you show up, put in the work, and lead with integrity, trust follows—and with trust comes a strong reputation.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Building an Engaged Audience on Social Media
Building an audience on social media has been an intentional, evolving process rooted in authenticity, engagement, and community-driven content. From the beginning, I approached social media not just as a broadcasting tool, but as a platform for meaningful connections and advocacy.
How I Built My Audience
When I first started using social media, my goal was to create visibility for Hispanic businesses, share valuable insights, and amplify key issues affecting our community. I focused on a multi-platform approach, ensuring that my content reached different audiences across platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Community-Centered Content: My social media presence is built around empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs, sharing resources, and advocating for small business policies. I leverage real stories, industry insights, and policy updates to keep my audience informed and engaged.
A Healthy Mix of Personal & Professional Content: While I regularly highlight events I participate in, key chamber initiatives, and community spotlights, I also bring a personal touch to my feed. Many people love my food-tasting posts or even my own cooking content, which adds a relatable and engaging element to my social media presence.
Consistency & Relevance: Posting regularly with relevant and timely content has been crucial. Whether it’s highlighting business success stories, industry trends, or chamber events, I ensure that my content resonates with my audience’s interests.
Engagement Over Numbers: I prioritize genuine engagement over follower counts. Responding to comments, participating in discussions, and acknowledging supporters has helped create a loyal and interactive community rather than just passive followers.
Leveraging Partnerships: Collaborating with local and national organizations, including the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) and USHCC, has helped expand my reach. Cross-promoting events and initiatives has brought new audiences to my platforms.
Advice for Those Starting Out
Be Authentic – People connect with real stories and real voices. Share your journey, challenges, and wins in a way that is relatable and inspiring.
Engage With Your Audience – Social media isn’t just about posting; it’s about conversations. Reply to comments, ask questions, and engage with your followers’ content too.
Provide Value – Whether it’s insights, educational content, or resources, your audience should feel like they’re gaining something by following you.
Stay Consistent – You don’t have to post every day, but having a consistent presence keeps you relevant in your audience’s feed.
Show Personality & Interests – Don’t be afraid to mix in personal passions—for me, that means sharing culinary adventures and home-cooked meals, which always get great engagement.
Leverage Video & Visuals – Video content, live streams, and engaging visuals get higher engagement and help humanize your brand.
Collaborate & Cross-Promote – Partner with organizations, thought leaders, or businesses in your space to expand your reach and credibility.
Use Analytics – Pay attention to which posts perform best and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Social media is a long-term game, but with authenticity, engagement, and valuable content, you can build a genuine and influential online presence that makes an impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://yuricunza.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yuricunza
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yuri.cunza
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuricunza/
- Twitter: https://x.com/yuricunza
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@YuriCunza
- Other: http://www.nashvillehispanicchamber.com/
https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuri_Cunza
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuri_Cunza
https://www.ushcc.com/about-the-ushcc/board-of-directors/yuri-cunza/
https://www.tnwac.org/personnel/yuri-cunza/
