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.
As the Latino community in the Twin Cities has continued to grow, with its influence expanding across the region, the need for a platform, for a voice, remained.
This brings us to the second chapter of Vida y Deportes. Torres, along with sports journalist and entrepreneur Jeffrey Bissoy are revitalizing the publication. They understand the power of digital platforms to connect communities and the importance of data in serving both readers and businesses seeking to engage with this dynamic market.
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