In a celebration of culture, excellence, and advocacy, the 2025 NHMC Impact Awards Gala became a glittering stage for some of Hollywood’s most compelling Latine voices — and among the night’s brightest stars was Isabela Merced. Recognized for her growing influence in the entertainment industry and her breakthrough role in HBO’s highly anticipated second season of The Last of Us, Merced took center stage, not only as an honoree but as a symbol of emerging talent and representation.
Held at the historic Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) brought together creators, actors, industry leaders, and advocates for an evening that recognized those driving change in how Latine stories are told and who gets to tell them. At just 23, Isabela Merced stood out — not just because of her achievements, but because of the spirit, strength, and storytelling she brings to the screen.
Isabela Merced, born Isabela Yolanda Moner, first captured audiences’ hearts with her charisma, versatility, and unique screen presence. From her early days on Nickelodeon’s 100 Things to Do Before High School to starring in major franchises like Transformers: The Last Knight and Dora and the Lost City of Gold, Merced’s career has been marked by a steady, upward trajectory.
But it’s not just the roles she plays — it’s how she plays them. Whether she’s voicing a cartoon heroine or embodying a warrior in a post-apocalyptic world, Merced brings authenticity to every character. Her performances are emotionally rich, rooted in experience, and reflective of a young artist who understands the cultural weight of visibility.
Born to a Peruvian mother and an American father, Merced has long spoken about how her identity has shaped her approach to her craft. She’s often described herself as someone “in between cultures,” and she channels that unique perspective into her roles. Her fluency in Spanish and connection to her Latin American heritage are not only personal attributes but professional assets — ones she leverages to expand the representation of Latinas in mainstream media.
Merced’s portrayal of Dina in HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2 has become one of the most talked-about casting decisions of the year. Based on the critically acclaimed video game series by Naughty Dog, The Last of Us has captivated audiences with its haunting depiction of a world ravaged by a fungal pandemic — and the deep human stories embedded within that world.
Dina, Ellie’s love interest and emotional anchor in the second installment of the game, is a complex, layered character. She is strong, nurturing, impulsive, and fiercely loyal — traits that Merced embodies with nuance and grace. Early fan reactions to Merced’s casting were overwhelmingly positive, especially among those familiar with the game’s canon. With Bella Ramsey returning as Ellie, anticipation is sky-high to see the chemistry between the two actresses on-screen.
Merced’s preparation for the role reportedly included extensive physical training, immersion into the game’s world, and close collaboration with the creative team, including series creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. For many fans, the casting of Merced felt like a dream come true — a performer who not only fits the character visually and emotionally, but also brings a fresh take to an already beloved story.
While Merced’s growing résumé speaks volumes, her recognition at the NHMC Impact Awards Gala is about more than just acting — it’s about impact. The NHMC has long been at the forefront of advocating for inclusive representation in the media industry. Their annual gala honors individuals and organizations that use their platforms to challenge stereotypes, amplify underrepresented voices, and promote positive change.
By honoring Merced, the NHMC acknowledged her contributions not only as a performer but as a cultural advocate. In her acceptance speech, Merced spoke candidly about the responsibility she feels as a Latina in Hollywood.
“I didn’t grow up seeing many girls who looked like me on screen,” she said. “Now that I’m in this position, I want to make sure that the next generation doesn’t have to say the same thing.”
She went on to express gratitude to her mother — her “first and forever hero” — who immigrated from Peru and instilled in her a deep sense of pride in her roots. The audience responded with a standing ovation, affirming that Merced’s message of identity, perseverance, and visibility resonated far beyond her filmography.
Isabela Merced’s evolution as an actress has been swift, strategic, and impressive. At an age when many performers are still finding their footing, Merced has already starred in big-budget action films (Transformers: The Last Knight), heartfelt family adventures (Dora and the Lost City of Gold), and genre-defining horror (Alien: Romulus, releasing later this year).
But perhaps her most ambitious leap is yet to come. Merced has officially joined the DC Universe as Hawkgirl in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman: Legacy. The casting decision has sparked widespread enthusiasm, with fans eager to see what she brings to the iconic superhero. In a franchise that’s long needed revitalization, Merced’s involvement signals a commitment to new energy, diverse voices, and bold reimaginings.
Gunn himself praised Merced as a “fearless performer” during casting announcements. The role of Hawkgirl — a fierce warrior with a storied past across multiple timelines — seems tailor-made for an actress of Merced’s intensity and depth.
In the age of social media and instantaneous fame, Merced remains refreshingly grounded. She often uses her platforms to advocate for causes she believes in, from mental health awareness to immigrant rights. In interviews, she balances humor with honesty, frequently reflecting on the pressures of being a young woman of color in the public eye.
“I try to keep myself centered,” she shared in a recent interview. “I love what I do, but I also know that who I am off-screen is just as important as the roles I play.”
That awareness makes her a particularly important figure for young Latinas watching her ascent. Representation isn’t just about visibility; it’s about relatability. Merced’s rise shows that it’s possible to be multifaceted — to be glamorous yet grounded, successful yet humble, and proud of your heritage while navigating an industry that hasn’t always made space for it.
The 2025 NHMC Impact Awards Gala was a celebration of storytelling, strength, and community. Other honorees included filmmaker Issa López, the creative force behind True Detective: Night Country, and a host of other stars who are reshaping the media landscape.
But it was Isabela Merced who seemed to carry the heart of the evening. Dressed in a sleek, custom-made gown with nods to traditional Latin American embroidery, she walked the red carpet with grace — but it was her words on stage that left the biggest impression.
“To every young girl out there who thinks her voice doesn’t matter — it does. I’m here because someone believed in mine,” she said. “Now it’s my turn to believe in yours.”
As the lights dimmed at the Beverly Wilshire and attendees returned to their worlds of cameras, scripts, and studio meetings, one thing was clear: Isabela Merced is not just a rising star — she’s a guiding light.
Whether portraying heroines in dystopian futures, mythic warriors from comic lore, or real-life champions of her culture, Merced carries with her a sense of purpose. She doesn’t just inhabit roles — she redefines them, opening doors for those who will follow.
With each project, she builds not only a career but a legacy. And with each speech, award, and performance, she shows that talent, when paired with authenticity and advocacy, can truly change the world.
