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TierraNatal is a recently launched site that is looking to form a social network for the Hispanic community, providing online connections for both those in the US and in Mexico.
The network is rather location-based, and really sticks to its theme of connecting people based on geography and culture. Your profile lets you create a personal network comprised of people and towns. Each town in Mexico can be represented in TierraNatal, and these function in a very similar manner to Groups--each comes with a gallery, tag cloud, and discussion board. Most everything else you'll need for a social network is included to, from private messaging to blogs and photo-sharing tools.
The distinct focus on connecting people based on culture and location is a very strong way that TierraNatal can build its community. There are a few ways in which this is encouraged, such as helping users find loved ones abroad or more information about their homeland. Several directions for expansion are viable options for TierraNatal, including a genealogy component, geo-tagging media share options, language and cultural tutoring (or a simple Q&A).
From LatinoAIM Pages to MySpace Mexico, the larger brands are incorporating Hispanic communities into their overall service, though I think TierraNatal could be more useful for many.
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