BARRIO – Nightclubs are the epitome of excitement, glamour, and an unforgettable nightlife experience. Behind the scenes of every successful club, there’s a vital role played by club promoters. But what is a club promoter? Well, meet 2023 Toronto Latin Promoter of the Year, Gustavo Patzan.

This past Sunday, Gustavo, or Gusto as they call him, won Toronto’s Latin Promoter of the Year (for the 3rd time). A title he takes very seriously. It’s been a long road. He’s worked at over a dozen establishments, but appears that he has settled at Silent H, which also won Best New Venue. Can you say, Winning?

So what does Gustavo do? He’s basically responsible for driving the success of a nightclub by attracting guests and marketing events. He is the driving force behind a club’s popularity and ensures that there is a steady flow of guests which leads to creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved…. We’re going to pause and take this opportunity to mention that we are partners with Gustavo at Baro Saturdays on King St West in Toronto. See you all this Saturday night LOL.

Gustavo was born and raised in Mississauga and is of Guatemalan decent. He started in the entertainment industry as a salsa dancer, which took him to different parts of the world. His love for salsa dancing gave him a taste of Nightlife, so a shift to Executive Promoter was a seamless transition.

Gustavo mentions that building relationships through networking is key to this business, but it doesn’t stop there. Now you have to maintain these strong connections. They can be with club owners, DJs, celebrities, influencers and more. These relationships help attract a diverse and vibrant crowd to the venue.

Latin parties is an ultra competitive space, with many of them having popped up all over Toronto after the Covid pandemic. Before the pandemic, you can count the amount of Latin parties in Toronto on one hand. Now there are easily over a dozen.

Gustavo uses his popularity and social media in promoting clubs and events. The man is always selling. Wether it’s a table with a minimum spend, an experience, or a particular vibe. He can lead a group to upgrade to a booth and purchase bottles to enhance their experience.

Image is everything for Gusto. Given that social media is an essential part of life nowadays, the impression you give on your social media page will have a great impact on whether or not guests choose to party with you. Those who know Gustavo, know that he has this on lock. You can always find him wearing his perfectly tailored suits at all his parties.

For now you can catch Gusto mostly at Silent H, the legendary El Rancho, and with us at Baro. Give him a follow at @gustavopatzan and @partywithgusto.

If you believe we should be profiling someone in the City please have them email us at info@torontolatinos.com