COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Business should create opportunity. Opportunity should create impact.
Success Should Help More Than One Person
Gilberto was born in Panama City, Panama, and grew up facing real challenges, including gang involvement as a teen. He made a decision to change direction. People who believed in him made the difference.
That is why community work is part of his life’s work, not a side note. He uses his time, relationships, and influence to open doors for young people, small business owners, and families across Alabama. Watch his story on WBRC FOX6.
Boards and Leadership Roles
President, Everybody WENS
Gilberto serves as president of the board of Everybody WENS (Working to Enhance Neighborhood Success), a community-led Birmingham organization focused on violence prevention, youth development, and community healing.
Board Member, Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama (HICA)
Gilberto serves on the HICA board. As past president of the ¡HICA! Jr. Board, he helped raise $500,000 by calling donors himself and leading the auctions and giving at events.
Board Member, 100 Black Men of Metro Birmingham
Supports mentoring, education, and economic growth for young people in Birmingham. He also spoke as a panelist at the 100 Black Men of America 2021 conference.
Board Member, The Pivot Path
Serves on the board of The Pivot Path, a Montgomery nonprofit that helps adults without a high school diploma earn their GED and get career and workforce training.
Past Board Member, A.G. Gaston Boys and Girls Club
Helped young people get the support and exposure they need to grow.
Alabama Urban League
Started as public relations co-chair of the Birmingham Urban League, now the Alabama Urban League, then led its entrepreneurship and workforce development work. He also hosted small business workshops for local owners.
UNCF Birmingham
Worked with UNCF Birmingham to support students and education.
Operation HOPE
Mentored new business owners through the Business in a Box program.
Programs That Reach the Community
Grow with Google
Four years as Alabama’s Grow with Google Digital Coach, with more than 8,000 entrepreneurs trained and free workshops at the Birmingham Public Library.
Profitable Pro Live
A monthly in-person workshop in Birmingham where business owners learn, connect, and grow.
Network 'n' Chill
A networking series for entrepreneurs in Birmingham and Atlanta.
Grow Your Alabama Business for Free
A free Facebook community where Gilberto goes live to teach marketing and sales.
Youth and Schools
Start Smart at the A.G. Gaston Business Institute and the GEAR UP program at the University of Montevallo. See youth programs.
Recognition
Legacy Award honoree at the 2026 Steel City Legacy Gala, Entrepreneur of the Year from the African American Entrepreneurs Association (2023), and BBJ Power 60 Emerging Influencers (2023). See all media and awards.
Focus Areas
- Youth mentorship and violence prevention
- Entrepreneurship and small business growth
- Workforce and leadership development
- Education and financial literacy
- Economic mobility for immigrant and underserved families
Partner With Gilberto
Nonprofit, school, or community group? Tell us what you are working on. Choose “Community Partnership” in the form.