MIAMI — Julio Gonzalez stood in a Miami ballroom on October 2 and gave the Luminary Award for Humanitarian Impact back to his mother.
Paula Gonzalez died of breast cancer when he was a young man. The Founder and CEO of Engineered Tax Services said the honor holds a special place in his heart because it celebrates her memory, not his résumé. He called himself grateful beyond words.
“I lost her far too soon to breast cancer, but her unconditional love still guides everything I do,” Gonzalez said. “She gave me everything she had — and somehow found ways to give what she didn’t — so I could have a better future. Mom, this one is for you.”
What She Left Him
The award was presented at the Luminous Advocacy Project’s 5th Annual Light Up the Night Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami. The Luminary Award recognizes people whose influence and commitment have helped advance women’s health and human dignity. Gonzalez has spent 25 years building Engineered Tax Services, then ETS Cares and Engineered Impact. He has said the direction of that life started earlier, with a mother who believed in him before he had accomplished anything.
The line he attached to the night is the one he says she taught him. “Pain can become purpose, and success can become service.”
He did not pretend the award repaired the loss. If he could see anyone in the world again, he said, it would be her. Just one more time. Just to hear her voice.
Where the Honor Goes Next
The gala supports the Luminous Advocacy Project Foundation, a 501(c)(3) led by Marylin Dans. Nearly 300 guests were expected at the black-tie-optional evening, hosted by Michele Reese, Mrs. Florida International 2026. The program included performances by Grammy and Latin Grammy winner Robbie Elias and his band, films from the Foundation’s medical missions, and a candle-lighting ceremony led by Dr. Julio Hernandez.
Proceeds fund breast health awareness, early detection, education, and access to care for women around the world, including medical missions that cover screenings, biopsies, transportation, and surgery when needed, at no cost to patients.
Gonzalez turned the microphone toward that work.
“Thank you to everyone working to save the lives of women and mothers,” he said. “Helping another family have more time together is the most meaningful way I can honor mine.”
That is the exchange he is willing to make. He cannot have the conversation he wants with Paula. He can put a national honor behind the chance that another mother gets to stay.
About Julio Gonzalez
Julio Gonzalez is Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Engineered Tax Services. He received the Luminary Award for Humanitarian Impact in memory of his mother, Paula Gonzalez.
About the Gala
5th Annual Light Up the Night Gala
October 2, 2026 | Four Seasons Hotel Miami
Luminous Advocacy Project Foundation
Issued by The KR Media Group
Media Contact
Engineered Tax Services
West Palm Beach, Florida
www.engineeredtaxservices.com
