The Georgia Latino International Film Festival (GALIFF) will present its Legends of Georgia – CEO of the Year Award to Lou Sobh, founder and CEO of Lou Sobh Auto Group, during the festival's 15th anniversary opening night celebration on Wednesday, September 30, at Atlanta's historic Fox Theatre. The award recognizes extraordinary business leadership, entrepreneurial achievement, community impact and a legacy that has helped shape Georgia's economic and cultural fabric.
Sobh's journey from Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico, to leading one of Georgia's most notable Latino-owned businesses underscores the expanding influence of Latino entrepreneurs in the state. Arriving in the United States as a teenager with limited resources, Sobh learned business through hard work, family and hands-on experience. Today, Lou Sobh Auto Group is a family-owned company that has served customers for more than 30 years, representing major automotive brands and earning a reputation for customer service, family values and community involvement. The next generation of the Sobh family is now in leadership roles, ensuring the legacy continues.
His impact extends well beyond the showroom. Throughout his career, Sobh has made giving back part of how he does business, supporting schools, charities, community organizations and educational initiatives. Lou and Georgia Sobh have also been recognized for significant philanthropic support of the University of Georgia. This commitment to community and education demonstrates how business success can translate into broader social benefits, particularly for underserved populations.
"The Legends of Georgia Award was created to honor people who did more than build successful companies. They helped build Georgia, and Lou Sobh is exactly that," said Dr. Jose Marquez, co-founder and CEO of the Georgia Latino Film Alliance. "Generations of Latino entrepreneurs need to know that stories like Lou's are part of Georgia's history. It is our privilege to recognize him as our CEO of the Year."
Yvette Moise, co-founder and president of the Georgia Latino Film Alliance, added, "Lou Sobh's journey reminds us that true success is not measured only by the business you build, but by the doors you open, the people you lift and the legacy you leave behind. His story shows what becomes possible when opportunity meets determination."
Sobh will be honored in front of filmmakers, business leaders, artists, community leaders, dignitaries and special guests as GALIFF opens its 15th anniversary festival, themed "La Quinceañera" after the traditional celebration of a 15th birthday. For fifteen years, GALIFF has given Latino filmmakers, artists, entrepreneurs and emerging voices a platform, while celebrating the leaders who have opened doors for future generations. The festival runs from September 30 to October 4, 2026, with tickets and information available at galiff.org.
The recognition of Sobh at such a prominent cultural event highlights the intersection of business achievement and cultural celebration. It signals that Latino-owned businesses are not only economic drivers but also integral to Georgia's identity. As the state's Latino population continues to grow, awards like this amplify role models for aspiring entrepreneurs and reinforce the value of diversity in the business community. The festival's 15th anniversary, supported by sponsors such as the Fox Theatre, VensureHR, Olé Mexican Foods and others, further cements GALIFF's role in promoting Latino storytelling and creative achievement. This award serves as a reminder that true leadership involves lifting others and investing in the community, a lesson that resonates far beyond the boardroom.
