Visit Fort Worth’s Estela Martinez-Stuart Recognized for Promoting Hispanic Culture and History

During Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, Visit Fort Worth’s Estela Martinez-Stuart has been awarded the Reconocimiento Ohtli by the government of Mexico.

“I am excited to be able to present the Ohtli Award to Estela Martinez-Stuart, an exemplary woman of binational pride, who for many years has opened a pathway for other Mexican women in Texas,” said Francisco de la Torre Galindo, consul general of Mexico in Dallas, who presented the award during Frida Fest in downtown Fort Worth’s Sundance Square.

In her role as director of leisure sales and Hispanic partnerships, Estela promotes Fort Worth to tour operators around the world and works with local partners to develop programming that celebrates Latin history and culture.

Credit: Rachel DeLira | Pictured: Estela Martinez Stuart, Visit Fort Worth, with Genesis Damian of the Ballet Folklorico de Fort Worth, Fort Worth City Councilmember Carlos Flores, Consul General Francisco de la Torre Galindo, Councilmember Elizabeth Beck, Fort Worth ISD Board Trustee Anael Luebanos and Anette Landeros, president of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

When the pandemic grounded international travel, Estela shifted her time to expanding Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations. Her efforts enhanced events that drew record crowds in the Stockyards, at La Gran Plaza and downtown.

The Ohtli Award is the highest recognition awarded by the Mexican Government to members of the community in the United States who have contributed in an exceptional manner to the development of the Mexican community living abroad. It consists of a medal, a silver rosette and a certificate signed by the Director of the Institute of Mexicans Abroad (IME), who coordinates the international cooperation aimed at improving the living standards of Mexican communities abroad.

“Estela exemplifies our vision to share the Fort Worth welcome with all,” said Bob Jameson, president and CEO of Visit Fort Worth. “Her work to enhance Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations showcases our incredible history and culture.”

Visit Fort Worth created the Spanish-language brand and social media channel Visita Fort Worth as part of its mission to people to visit the city. Approximately 36% of Fort Worth’s population is Hispanic.

Estela works with many local and regional partners including the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas, Artes de la Rosa and the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s international committee.

On Nov. 1, Estela will mark 22 years with Visit Fort Worth.