Laura Murillo: The Voice Leading Hispanics in Houston

By Patricia Contreras

In Houston—a vibrant and diverse city—Laura Murillo has become one of the most influential and admired leaders within the Hispanic community. As President and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Laura has not only forged her own path through hard work and passion, but has also opened doors for thousands of people who, like her, dream of a better future.

“Nothing is achieved alone,” Laura says with her characteristic warmth. Behind every success there is a team, a family, a community that encourages, supports, and sustains you. With deep gratitude, Laura acknowledges her team at the Chamber, the Board of Directors, and everyone who has believed in her vision during the 17 years she has led this key Houston institution.

Laura was born in Houston, the youngest of nine siblings, to Mexican immigrant parents. Her father, a natural-born entrepreneur with no formal education, taught her that barriers only exist if you accept them. Her mother, a woman of great heart and devotion to family, instilled in her the values of faith, discipline, and unconditional love. As a child, Laura spent her afternoons playing outside and visiting Mrs. Robinson, an American neighbor who introduced her to the world of books and—without knowing it—showed her the importance of education.

“I understood from a very young age that education opens different paths—paths of influence, impact, and service.” At just 10 years old, Laura was already working in the family restaurant. By 21, she had graduated from the University of Houston, and with every stage of life, her desire to help others became clearer.

Life, however, would bring even greater challenges. Laura is a single mother of two daughters, whom she raised with pride, determination, and sacrifice.“I could have stopped and said, ‘This is as far as I go,’ but I chose to keep moving forward. Sometimes without sleep, sometimes afraid—but always with the faith that God opens doors for those who work hard,” she shares.

Today, her daughters reflect that perseverance: one is an engineer and astrophysicist working with NASA; the other graduated in Washington, D.C., and became the youngest person to work in the U.S. Congress at just 16 years old.

Laura never settled for personal success alone. She has created programs for emerging young leaders, championed initiatives for small business owners, and played a key role in large-scale projects such as bringing the 2026 FIFA World Cup to Houston.

“Each match is equivalent to a Super Bowl for the local economy. This will bring thousands of opportunities for businesses, volunteers, and a chance to showcase the strength of Houston and its Hispanic community to the world,” she says enthusiastically.

For Laura, passivity is the greatest enemy. “Opportunities don’t knock on your door—you have to go out and find them.” While technology has democratized access to information, it has also created distractions. “There are young people with incredible potential but no direction. That’s why it’s essential to surround yourself with people who inspire you, attend events, take workshops, and get involved. No one will hold your hand, but doors will open if you take the first step.”

Laura strongly believes in the power of volunteering as a tool for both personal and professional growth—a lesson she learned at 15 and continues to promote today.“Selfless service not only helps others; it shapes you as a leader, gives you skills, connections, and a broader view of the world.”

Today, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce offers a wide range of resources for those looking to start a business or grow professionally.“It doesn’t matter if you’re selling from home or just dreaming of your first business. The Chamber has programs, workshops, and events—everything within reach for those willing to put in the effort,” she assures us.

She emphasizes, “Success is not limited—it multiplies when we share knowledge and extend a hand to others.”

Laura Murillo represents not only business success, but also the essence of the Hispanic woman who fights, educates, works, and transforms her community. Her story is living proof that passion, discipline, and consistency open doors where others see only walls.

Patricia Contreras is a journalist with more than 25 years of experience in various media outlets. She holds a postgraduate degree as a Specialist in Public Opinion and a Master’s in Political Science with an emphasis on Public Policy. She is the founding director of WoodlandStories Magazine.