Soto is a Mexican immigrant who came to the United States when he was 5 years old. He graduated from Holy Trinity High School and the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Today, Soto is the executive director of Pilsen Neighbors Community Council and Gamaliel of Metro Chicago. Soto has also been the director of Fiesta del Sol for 20 years. Fiesta del Sol is considered one of the largest free, family-oriented events in the Midwest.
Community members nominated Soto because they say he is a strong leader who is passionate about helping people and bettering the community.
Soto also has a wife and two daughters.
