About Us
VIDA Y DEPORTES
A Voice for Minnesota’s
Latino Community
The story of Vida y Deportes is, at its heart, a story of community. It’s a narrative that begins with a recognition of both belonging and a void. Minnesota, while increasingly diverse, hadn’t quite captured the multifaceted lives of its burgeoning Latino population – a population that now numbers over 280,000 in the North Star state.
Henry Torres, businessman, rabid sports fan and American/Ecuadorian-New Yorker, who found his home in Minnesota, recognized this. He saw a community brimming with energy, a rich tapestry woven from diverse Latin American cultures. There was a shared passion for fútbol, a deep emphasis on family and traditions, and an unwavering drive to achieve the American Dream. Yet, the media landscape lacked a platform that truly reflected this reality.
Torres’ response was Vida y Deportes. Launched in January 2015, Vida y Deportes began as a dual print and digital magazine, the flagship project of Value of Five (VO5), its parent company with a mission to empower and uplift Latino and other emerging communities. Vida y Deportes sought to be more than just a publication – it aimed to be a voice and a mirror, reflecting the lives, passions, and dynamic stories of these vibrant populations.
Vida y Deportes has filled a crucial role. It’s told the stories of local athletes, celebrated cultural traditions, and provided a space for the community to connect. However, as often happens, the initial venture took a brief hiatus.
But the story didn't end there.