Hugo is known in the Fruitvale area as one of the community’s strongest leaders. He has owned his travel agency for 23 years, and takes pride in Fruitvale's "power house of businesses." Hugo's own business is strong, drawing Latino clients from all over the area. "I fill a cultural niche that is unique in the travel agency market. With the Fruitvale BART right here, I can reach out to lots of communities, draw customers from all over the East Bay and let people know how amazing my services are here. I am lucky to have such a great location in this community." As a result of the increased traffic in the Fruitvale area, he has seen an increase in his clientele as "…more people are discovering the area; cultures are mixing together into one diverse marketplace."

Hugo doesn't just advocate for his own business; He also praises the effects that the Fruitvale Transit Village has had on the whole business community. "We all work together and want to show everyone that we have competitive services." In order for the businesses to benefit the community, in 1995, Hugo started the Oakland Businessmen and Professionals Association. With a membership of 73 different businesses around the Fruitvale station, the association is responsible for giving small business start-up loans and organizing local festivals, including the Cinco de Mayo festival. "We use our businesses as a way to help the community. The more customers we have and the better our businesses do, the more we can give back."

The association also supports local youth development by giving out academic scholarships every year and organizing "battle of the band" events for teenage musicians. "We want the youth to have opportunities. If they see different types of people who come through the Fruitvale Village, and have the chance to visit other communities easily, they will be self-motivated and learn to be great leaders. This brings strength to the community. Business and community; it's all connected."