Jennifer Lopez and Paulina Chavez Celebrated at Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival

The 2026 Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival kicked off with a star-studded evening at TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on May 27, bringing together prominent figures from entertainment to celebrate Latino talent and achievement.

Jennifer Lopez and Paulina Chavez were among those recognized at the opening night festivities. The 56-year-old performer made an elegant statement in a green Bronx Banco Brielle Sage Diamond Gown, accessorized with a Tyler Ellis clutch.

Lopez received the inaugural Adelante Award for Industry, a distinction that recognizes "visionary leaders whose work has created lasting impact and expanded opportunities across the entertainment industry." Edward James Olmos, founder and chairman of the Board of the Latino Film Institute, presented her with the honor. Gregory Nava, the director of Selena: The Movie, was also present at the ceremony. Olmos and Lopez previously worked together on both Selena: The Movie and Office Romance.

Speaking during her acceptance, Lopez reflected on the award's significance. "The fact that it is named the 'Adelante' makes this recognition especially meaningful to me, because moving forward has always been at the heart of everything I do, and our community does. We push boundaries, create opportunities, and ensure the next generation has an even clearer path," she said.

The 24-year-old Chavez, known for her role in Landman, took home the Next Gen Award, also presented by Olmos. The accolade celebrates her status as an "emerging talent helping shape the future of the industry."

"I will continue uplifting Latino voices. I want to knock doors down the way those before me did and to the little girls that look like us, & we come in different shades of beauty, this is for you," Chavez said while accepting the award. She wore a striking Raisa Vanessa dress for the occasion.

The festival's opening night drew an impressive roster of entertainment industry figures, including Tonatiuh, Lopez's co-star from Kiss of the Spider Woman, as well as Danny Pino, Xolo Maridueña, Alyssa Diaz, Jesse Garcia, Marissa Reyes, Zulay Henao, Belissa Escobedo, and Julio Macias.