Hispanic Heritage Month is annual celebration across the United States of America to highlight different Hispanic cultures and their history. The month-long celebration runs from September 15, 2026 to October 15, 2026.
Behind many of Palm Beach Atlantic University’s (PBA) stunning scenic videos or well-lit interviews is the work of Enrique Franco Martin, the university’s cinematographer and video editor.
Franco Martin was born and raised in Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco, Mexico. Founded in 1530, Tepatitlán de Morelos is approximately 40 miles east of the state’s capital, Guadalajara, and more than six hours away from the country’s capital of Mexico City. Tepatitlán de Morelos, commonly referred to as “Tepa” by the locals, is known as “The Pearl of Los Altos de Jalisco,” blends tradition, religious architecture, and delicious food that defines the region.
“If I were to share one thing about my heritage, it would be our positive outlook on life despite adversity,” said Franco Martin. “We understand that to be happy does not depend on what occurs around us, but on what we make for ourselves. In turn, we strive to have a happier life by the choices we make and how we react.”
Finding Joy in Community
More than 150,000 people call Tepatitlán de Morelos home, with nearly 100,000 living within the main city limits. Despite the population being spread across urban areas, there is still a connection among the locals.
“What I celebrate most about my heritage is unity,” said Franco Martin.
A close-knit environment that made an impact on Franco Martin and contributes to the overall joy of the people in the city.
“We have a huge sense of community, and that contributes to our happiness. Knowing that we are not alone and we can count on others is a great feeling to have,” said Franco Martin.
New Home, Same Values
In 2013, just weeks before his 13th birthday, Franco Martin left his home country of Mexico and moved east of Los Angeles to Indio, California. He completed high school and two years of community college in the Golden State with goals of pursuing a career in film. After earning his associate degree, Franco Martin took a leap of faith and moved to South Florida on his own and enrolling at PBA in fall 2020 to follow his dreams. While pursuing his bachelor’s degree at PBA, Franco Martin also had the opportunity to become a student-worker, gaining hands-on experience that created a pathway to a full-time position after graduation.
Although he is more than 2,000 miles away from where he grew up in Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco, Mexico, the principles his family instilled in him have helped shaped who he is today, thanks to a community rooted in a strong religious identity.
“One thing from my heritage that contributes to my character is our upholding of family values. Our respect and love for our family members help me translate that same affection to others. No matter where I go or where I work, I am always open to helping and understanding those around me. Thus, cultivating a family-like environment,” said Franco Martin.
To find out about PBA’s Hispanic Heritage Festival, click here.
