Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Banquet Keynote Speaker and Award Honorees
The Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Georges Antoun as the keynote speaker and the award recipients for its 2026 Annual Banquet on Thurs., April 23, at the Cade Community Center (1688 Smede Hwy., St. Martinville). Purchase tickets here.
About the Event
The Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet is one of the region’s premier business and community events, bringing together local leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents for an evening of celebration and inspiration.
“The Annual Banquet is an opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses who help shape the future of our community,” said representatives from the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce. “From visionary business leaders to dedicated volunteers and thriving local businesses, these honorees embody the spirit of leadership and service that makes Iberia Parish such a special place.”
About the Keynote Speaker
Serving as the evening’s keynote speaker will be Georges Antoun, Chief Commercial Officer of First Solar, Inc. Antoun brings more than three decades of global leadership experience in technology and innovation. Throughout his distinguished career, he has held senior leadership roles with major international companies including Cisco, Ericsson, and Redback Networks.
Today, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of renewable energy through his leadership at First Solar. With strong Louisiana roots, Antoun will share insights on innovation, economic growth, and navigating the evolving global business landscape.
About the Honorees
The Chamber will also recognize individuals and businesses whose contributions have made a significant impact on the Iberia Parish community.
The 2026 Civic Service Award will be presented to Jenny Toups in recognition of her outstanding volunteerism and dedication to community service. Toups has devoted countless hours to organizations and initiatives that enrich Iberia Parish, including Iberia Crime Stoppers, the St. Francis Diner Board, and Bayou Traditions. As a founding member and Executive Vice President of Bayou Traditions, she has played a key role in preserving the beloved Queen City Downtown Christmas Parade and creating community events such as Pancakes & PJ’s with Santa that bring families together while supporting local traditions.
The Chamber will also present its 2025 Business Impact Awards, which recognize businesses demonstrating exceptional growth, innovation, and community investment.
The Small Business Impact Award will be awarded to Bambino’s, owned by Grant and Krysta Myers. Beginning as a popular food truck in 2022, Bambino’s quickly grew into a thriving restaurant located in a beautifully restored historic building on Main Street in downtown New Iberia. In addition to providing a popular gathering place for residents and visitors alike, Bambino’s has demonstrated a deep commitment to the community through local events, fundraising initiatives, and job creation, including providing employment opportunities to workers affected by the closure of a longtime local restaurant.
The Large Business Impact Award recipient will also be recognized during the banquet, honoring Iberia Parish School District which has demonstrated significant growth, innovation, and economic impact within Iberia Parish.
For ticket information, sponsorship opportunities, or additional details, please contact Marketing & Membership Director Shannon Thorne at (337) 364-1836, email or visit their website.
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