Press releases

2024/09/24 Ciudad de México, 24 de septiembre. – En el contexto del nuevo mundo laboral, la discusión sobre la inteligencia artificial (IA) se ha vuelto cada vez más relevante, especialmente en su vinculación con la educación, la innovación y el emprendimiento. En este marco, la Confederación Patronal de la República Mexicana (Coparmex) llevó a cabo la Feria Internacional de Innovación y Emprendimiento (FIIE 2024), donde empresarios de México intercambiaron experiencias y reflexiones sobre la creciente necesidad de profundizar en el conocimiento de la IA.  Durante este evento, Linda Eddleman, CEO de The Trust for the Americas, participó en el panel titulado “La inteligencia artificial como eje transformador de México”, donde destacó el trabajo conjunto con Microsoft para ofrecer capacitaciones en el uso responsable de herramientas de IA como Copilot. Eddleman señaló: “Con este ciclo de capacitaciones, buscamos seguir impulsando el desarrollo de habilidades digitales y empoderar a más sectores de la población.”  La inteligencia artificial está transformando rápidamente diversos sectores, especialmente en el ámbito de la educación y el emprendimiento. Su integración en el mundo laboral está ayudando a automatizar procesos, optimizar recursos y mejorar la toma de decisiones. Para México, la adopción de IA es clave para cerrar brechas digitales y promover el crecimiento económico, particularmente entre las pequeñas y medianas empresas (PyMEs) y en comunidades con acceso limitado a tecnologías avanzadas.  Eddleman explicó: “A través de estas capacitaciones, enfocadas en habilidades tecnológicas, técnicas y para la vida, estamos empoderando a jóvenes, emprendedores, estudiantes, mujeres y docentes en todo México. Estas herramientas no solo mejoran las competencias digitales, sino que también crean oportunidades económicas que elevan la calidad de vida de las personas y sus familias.”  A lo largo de los tres días de la FIIE, The Trust for the Americas tuvo una destacada presencia en el pabellón de Aliados Internacionales con un stand informativo. Karen Castro, Adriana Rueda, Alejandra Barrios y Valeria Tafoya, representantes de The Trust for the Americas, facilitaron la interacción directa con los asistentes. El público mostró gran interés en las capacitaciones y en cómo la IA puede tener un impacto positivo en sus emprendimientos.  La colaboración entre Coparmex y The Trust for the Americas reafirma el compromiso de empoderar a empresarios y comunidades en un entorno laboral en constante evolución. Al integrar la IA en la educación y los negocios en México, estamos construyendo un futuro más inclusivo y próspero para todos.  The Trust for the Americas apoya a las comunidades en las Américas dotándolas de las habilidades necesarias para prosperar en el nuevo entorno laboral. En México, la organización ha impactado a más de 800,000 personas, empoderando a jóvenes, emprendedores y mujeres a través de sus iniciativas. Como afiliada a la Organización de Estados Americanos, cuenta con una posición privilegiada para colaborar estrechamente con los gobiernos de la región y llevar a cabo proyectos que generan un impacto tangible en las comunidades. Gracias a sus alianzas estratégicas con los sectores público, privado y sin fines de lucro, promueve la inclusión socioeconómica y fomenta la innovación.  Si deseas mejorar tu productividad y adquirir habilidades en inteligencia artificial, The Trust for the Americas te invita a inscribirte en sus cursos gratuitos. Estas capacitaciones prepararán a los participantes para enfrentar los retos del nuevo mundo laboral y aprovechar las oportunidades que ofrece la tecnología.  Para más información sobre las iniciativas de The Trust for the Americas y su trabajo en tecnología y educación, visita www.thetrustfortheamericas.org  Sobre The Trust for the Americas  The Trust for the Americas, una organización sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA), promueve la inclusión social y económica en todo el continente americano. A través de proyectos innovadores y asociaciones estratégicas, el Trust empodera a las personas con las habilidades y oportunidades para mejorar sus vidas y comunidades en el nuevo mundo del trabajo.   Carlos Escalante, Gerente de Comunicación   +1 202 370 9865   cescalante@20.9.190.97  Mexico

2024/09/09 Coahuila, México, 10 de septiembre – La Confederación Patronal de la República Mexicana “COPARMEX” Laguna firmó un convenio de colaboración con The Trust for the Americas para la apertura de tres nuevos Centros POETA en Torreón, Coahuila. POETA es el Programa de Oportunidades Económicas a través de la Tecnología en las Amércias, implementado por The Trust for the Americas en alianza con organizaciones diversas en 18 países de la región. Esta colaboración estratégica marca un hito significativo en el fortalecimiento de la empleabilidad a través de capacitaciones en temas de tecnología y desarrollo personal.   La alianza permitirá que, con apoyo de organizaciones afiliadas, COPARMEX Laguna implemente capacitación en Inteligencia Artificial, habilidades digitales, técnicas y para la vida, para promover las oportunidades económicas de los beneficiarios, mediante microemprendimientos y vacantes para la empleabilidad formal, estudios formales y prácticas profesionales.   Los nuevos Centros POETA, ubicados en Torreón, ofrecerán cursos de capacitación desde alfabetización digital hasta desarrollo humano, para desarrollar habilidades en las personas participantes y facilitar su acceso a mejores oportunidades económicas. Estos Centros están diseñados para proporcionar a la comunidad las herramientas tecnológicas necesarias para fortalecer sus perfiles profesionales y potenciar sus oportunidades de empleo.  Pierina Nepote, Gerente Senior de POETA en The Trust for the Americas, comentó: “Es para The Trust un gusto y un honor iniciar nuestra colaboración con COPARMEX Laguna. Estamos comprometidos a unir esfuerzos para fortalecer los perfiles profesionales de jóvenes estudiantes, emprendedores y empresarios que estén listos para desarrollar habilidades que les permitan competir por prácticas profesionales y empleos formales, iniciar o fortalecer sus emprendimientos o bien, potenciar sus empresas.”  La apertura de estos tres Centros representa un paso importante hacia la construcción de una sociedad más inclusiva y equitativa, donde cada persona tenga la oportunidad de desarrollar habilidades e impulsar su potencial profesional.  Sobre The Trust for the Americas:  The Trust for the Americas es una entidad sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA). Establecida en 1997 para promover alianzas público-privadas, The Trust ha implementado proyectos en 29 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno. Nuestra alianza única con la OEA nos permite tener acceso a los tomadores de decisiones dentro de la región. Esta asociación fundamental es la base a través de la cual creamos redes sólidas en todos los estados miembros y el sector privado. A través del desarrollo de nuestra región, The Trust continúa contribuyendo a superar los desafíos a través de alianzas estratégicas que promueven la cooperación para resultados sostenibles.  Sobre COPARMEX Laguna:  COPARMEX Laguna es un sindicato patronal apartidista y de afiliación voluntaria que aglutina a empresarios de todos los tamaños y sectores que trabaja para fomentar el desarrollo económico y social en la región de La Laguna. Su misión es promover el bien común impulsando el emprendimiento y la innovación para lograr un desarrollo inclusivo. Mexico

Kingston, Jamaica. August 25th, 2024. The Trust for the Americas’ local partner for its Innovation Lab in Jamaica, the Institute of Law & Economics (ILE), recently hosted its Residential Pitch Tank Finals, marking a significant milestone in fostering entrepreneurial innovation in Jamaica. This event brought together a diverse group of aspiring entrepreneurs, primarily from the JET Project, with additional participation from the AIDS Health Foundation (AHF) Summer Internship Program. Out of 75 initial invitees, 18 dedicated participants engaged in weekly Zoom sessions that began in June. These sessions, led by Ms. Shauna Todd, Project Coordinator from ILE, covered essential topics designed to equip participants with the tools needed for entrepreneurial success. Over five weeks, participants delved into subjects such as: Despite challenges, including delays caused by Hurricane Beryl that extended the program into August, the commitment to innovation remained unwavering. On August 24th, the shortlisted participants gathered at the Eltham Training Centre in St. Ann for an intensive Boot Camp. This session focused on refining their pitches and preparing for the finals. Following a day of preparation, the participants retreated to Mystic Ridge Resort for further practice and final touches on their presentations. The Pitch Tank Finals took place on August 25th at the Eltham Training Centre, where 14 participants from across the island presented their business ideas. The event was a hybrid affair, with some participants pitching in person and others joining virtually via Zoom. A distinguished panel of judges, including Mr. Dwayne Gutzmer, CEO of the Institute of Law & Economics, Mrs. Regina Owen-Morrison, Project Coordinator for the local Trust for the Americas team, and Ms. Racheal Callaghan, PR Specialist for The Trust, provided insightful feedback. The judges evaluated pitches based on criteria such as: The event culminated in the announcement of the winners, with 13 out of 14 businesses receiving seed funding to support the development of their ventures. This achievement underscores the Trust for the Americas’ commitment to empowering the next generation of Jamaican entrepreneurs and driving economic growth through innovation. ***        About The Trust for the Americas:      The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities as well as to foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.        More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org         About Citi:  Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions. Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management.    Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | Twitter: @Citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Blog: http://blog.citigroup.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi.    About Citi Foundation:  The Citi Foundation works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. We invest in efforts that increase financial inclusion, catalyze job opportunities for youth, and reimagine approaches to building economically vibrant communities. The Citi Foundation’s “More than Philanthropy” approach leverages the enormous expertise of Citi and its people to fulfill our mission and drive thought leadership and innovation. For more information, visit  www.citifoundation.com.   Jamaica

In a region marked by significant challenges in both education and water resource management, an invaluable opportunity is emerging for young people in Ciudad Juárez and El Paso. The Skills for Sustainability (S4S) / Jale por el Agua project, an initiative of The Trust for the Americas, implemented by Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad AC with support from the North American Development Bank (NADBank), Microsoft, Water House Group, and other private-sector entities, has launched its call for applications for the third cohort of water operator training in Ciudad Juárez.  The project seeks to empower men and women by equipping them with the skills to thrive in the water management industry, which is essential for sustainable development, especially in regions facing water scarcity. According to the United Nations, by 2025, half of the world’s population will live in areas experiencing water stress. Therefore, professionals with experience in the water sector are essential to ensuring access to clean water and managing wastewater efficiently, which directly impacts public health and environmental sustainability.  Binational collaboration in water management is crucial due to the interdependence of water resources; the S4S-Jale por el Agua project operates within this complex context, offering young people the opportunity to be part of the solution. Among its objectives are: To expand its impact, the S4S-Jale por el Agua project has opened its call for applications for the third cohort of participants. Young people in Ciudad Juárez are invited to register and join this initiative, which will not only provide them with knowledge and practical skills in sustainable water management but will also allow them to make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of this vital resource.  “We are proud that this project has a threefold positive impact in Ciudad Juárez, as it provides training and job placement to communities facing unemployment or underemployment, supports companies in the sector with qualified personnel to provide better service, and raises awareness about better water use in the region,” says Jorge Márquez Gaspar, Project Manager for S4S-Jale por el Agua.  Since May 2023, this project has successfully graduated a total of 148 participants from Ciudad Juárez and El Paso, of whom 77% have secured employment in the water sector.   The S4S-Jale por el Agua project offers a unique combination of digital, technical, and life skills development, providing a comprehensive approach to training. Graduates are in high demand, highlighting the need for trained professionals in the water sector. Those interested can obtain more information and register through the official channels of Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad AC. This is a unique opportunity for young people committed to the environment and the future of their community.  *** About The Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), promotes social and economic inclusion throughout the Americas. Through innovative projects and strategic partnerships, Trust empowers people with the skills and opportunities to improve their lives and communities.  About NADBank The North American Development Bank (NADBank) is a binational financial institution that supports infrastructure projects that improve the environment and public health in the border regions of the U.S. and Mexico. It focuses on areas of sustainable development such as water quality, pollution control, and energy efficiency. Through collaboration and financial solutions, NADBank seeks to improve living conditions and foster economic growth in border communities.  About Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) JCC is a Mexican nonprofit civil society organization established in 2004, dedicated to promoting human development, improving employment opportunities, and facilitating the return to school of young people in marginalized communities. Mexico

Kingston, Jamaica – June 30, 2024 – As the digital landscape evolves, the gap between current skill sets and market demands poses challenges for many young people. In this context, The Trust for the Americas, through its JET Project, addresses this issue by equipping Jamaican youth with digital, entrepreneurial, and life skills to catalyze their growth in the digital economy. Jamaica’s future became brighter in this opportunity as 501 young Jamaicans celebrated their graduation from JET.  The graduation ceremony, held at the University College of the Caribbean (UCC) Campus, was a vibrant affair attended by proud family members, community stakeholders, and distinguished guests. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and hope as graduates received their certificates, symbolizing not just the completion of the program but the beginning of new professional opportunities.  At the graduation ceremony, Quimey Del Rio, Senior Program Officer of The Trust for the Americas, praised the graduates for their dedication and hard work. “At the Trust, we are immensely proud of our graduates for their dedication and commitment throughout this stage of their journey. We are confident that the skills and knowledge attained throughout their preparation will be instrumental as they move on to the next one. We look forward to witnessing the fruits of their efforts as they move onto the later stages in their professional development.”  One of the graduates, Shalona Watson, shared their journey, “The JET Program has significantly impacted my life, providing essential digital and soft skills that have boosted my freelance career. The hands-on training and supportive community fostered both professional and personal growth, enhancing my confidence and conflict-resolution abilities. I now feel more prepared and resilient to face any challenges.”  Among the 501 graduates, we are proud to highlight the following remarkable achievements:  The success of this project underscores the importance of investing in youth development. Andrew Pairman, Deputy Chair of the N.C.B. Foundation highlighted the ongoing commitment to supporting Jamaican youth, “Empowering Jamaican youth through programmes like JET is not just a mission for N.C.B. Foundation; it’s a testament to our commitment to building a better Jamaica. We are dedicated to ensuring that youths have access to digital education, enabling them to leverage software for online learning opportunities and enhancing their employability.”  These young professionals are ready to embark on their careers, poised to bring innovation and prosperity to Jamaica’s socioeconomic landscape. The JET Project remains dedicated to supporting young individuals, providing them with essential digital and life skills, and helping them secure employment, freelance opportunities, or entrepreneurial ventures.  As these 501 graduates’ step into their futures, the ripple effect of their achievements is expected to be felt across their communities. The skills and confidence they have gained position them as future leaders and innovators, ready to contribute to Jamaica’s growth and development.   The JET Project is a collaborative effort spearheaded by The Trust for the Americas, with financial backing from the NCB Foundation, Microsoft, Citi Foundation, and the IDB LAB. The project also benefits from the leadership of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ), the Caribbean School of Data (CSOD), and the Ministry of Education and Youth. This initiative underscores the power of public-private partnerships in effecting meaningful change.  If you are a forward-thinking organization, join us by hiring our talented interns. Access a pool of skilled, motivated, and innovative individuals ready to impact your business. Register at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QC9XFTV .  ***      About The Trust for the Americas:       The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities and foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.       More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org        About Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA):     DIA is a regional initiative of The Trust for the Americas that was launched to foster innovation and empower new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaboration spaces, mentorship, and financial resources for social and economic ventures.   Jamaica

Santo Domingo, República Dominicana. 28 de junio, 2024.- The Trust for the Americas, en colaboración con su socio local ADASEC Dominicana y con el apoyo de la Fundación Citi, celebró la Competencia Pitch de Proyectos Innovadores de los DIA Labs RD. En este evento, un grupo de jóvenes presentó sus proyectos ante un jurado, compitiendo por la oportunidad de ganar fondos semilla para fortalecer e impulsar sus emprendimientos.  Los DIA Lab RD tienen como objetivo proporcionar a los jóvenes acceso a tecnología, formación en currículos de innovación y emprendimiento, y espacios de mentoría. Esto les ayuda a desarrollar las habilidades necesarias para el mercado laboral y la creación de sus propios negocios. Los jóvenes participantes, que desarrollaron sus propuestas de emprendimiento durante semanas de capacitación y práctica, compitieron en grupo o de manera individual. Los jueces evaluaron exhaustivamente los planes de negocios y el potencial de los proyectos presentados, seleccionando a los equipos ganadores.  “Los DIA Labs RD han demostrado ser una plataforma invaluable para que los jóvenes puedan transformar sus ideas en realidades que beneficien a sus comunidades y a sí mismos. Agradecemos a todos los jóvenes que participaron con tanto entusiasmo y dedicación. Juntos, continuaremos fomentando un futuro prometedor para la juventud del Caribe.,” comentó Maximo Vidal, Gerente General de Citi Republica Dominicana.  Los proyectos ganadores de esta convocatoria fueron:  A nivel regional, los DIA Labs ha impactado a más de 8 313 personas en Jamaica, Trinidad y Tobago y la República Dominicana. Desde su inicio, el proyecto ha establecido seis laboratorios de innovación, fomentando el desarrollo de proyectos empresariales y tecnológicos entre los jóvenes, y otorgando financiamiento inicial a varios emprendimientos innovadores.  ***  Sobre The Trust for the Americas:   The Trust for the Americas es una entidad sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA). Establecida en 1997 para promover alianzas público-privadas, The Trust ha implementado proyectos en 24 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno.Nuestra alianza única con la OEA nos permite tener acceso a los tomadores de decisiones dentro de la región. Esta asociación fundamental es la base a través de la cual creamos redes sólidas en todos los estados miembros y el sector privado. A través del desarrollo de nuestra región, The Trust continúa contribuyendo a superar los desafíos a través de alianzas estratégicas que promueven la cooperación para resultados sostenibles. The Trust for the Americas es una organización sin fines de lucro 501 (c) (3).     Sobre Citi:  Citi, el banco líder global, tiene aproximadamente 200 millones de cuentas de clientes y realiza negocios en más de 160 países y jurisdicciones. Citi ofrece a personas, corporaciones, gobiernos e instituciones una amplia gama de productos y servicios financieros, incluyendo servicios bancarios y de crédito al consumidor, servicios bancarios corporativos y de inversión, corretaje de valores, servicios de transacción y administración patrimonial. Información adicional: www.citigroup.com | Twitter: @Citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Blog: http://blog.citigroup.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi  Sobre la Fundación Citi:  La Fundación Citi trabaja para promover el progreso económico y mejorar la vida de las personas en comunidades de bajos ingresos en todo el mundo. Invertimos en esfuerzos que aumentan la inclusión financiera, catalizan oportunidades laborales para los jóvenes y reinventan enfoques para construir comunidades económicamente dinámicas. El enfoque “Más que Filantropía” de la Fundación Citi despliega la enorme especialización de Citi y su gente para cumplir nuestra misión e impulsar el liderazgo de ideas y la innovación. Para ver más información, visite www.citifoundation.com  República Dominicana

San Antonio de Guerra, República Dominicana – 28 de junio de 2024 – The Trust for the Americas, entidad afiliada a la Organización de Estados Americanos (OEA), en colaboración con la Fundación AES Dominicana, ha culminado con gran éxito las dos semanas de capacitaciones presenciales en el municipio de San Antonio de Guerra. Estas sesiones son parte de un ambicioso programa de formación que se realizará en junio, julio y agosto, dentro del proyecto Potenciando el Emprendimiento Innovador. Esta primera fase presencial se diseñó para fortalecer los emprendimientos existentes y fomentar nuevas ideas de negocio en la comunidad local.  Desde el lunes 17 de junio, cerca de 80 emprendedoras han participado activamente en estas formaciones. Cabe destacar que el 95 % de las asistentes son mujeres, subrayando así el firme compromiso del proyecto con el empoderamiento femenino en el ámbito empresarial, promoviendo la igualdad de oportunidades y el liderazgo femenino en los negocios.  En estas dos semanas, las participantes se han formado en áreas fundamentales para el desarrollo y éxito empresarial en el entorno competitivo actual. Entre los temas abordados se encuentran: el modelo de negocio Canvas, el uso estratégico de redes sociales para el emprendimiento, inteligencia artificial y marketing digital, estrategias de comunicación y ventas, y manejo de finanzas. Estas competencias son esenciales para el crecimiento sostenido y el fortalecimiento de sus proyectos.  Con la conclusión de las sesiones presenciales, las participantes ahora entrarán a la fase virtual de esta iniciativa donde podrán acceder a sesiones de mentoría personalizadas. Estas sesiones están diseñadas para profundizar en los contenidos y conocimientos adquiridos, asegurando una aplicación efectiva de las estrategias aprendidas y garantizando así el éxito y sostenibilidad de sus negocios.  Finalmente, en agosto, se llevará a cabo una Feria de Emprendimiento donde las emprendedoras podrán exhibir sus productos o servicios. Durante este evento, presentarán un pitch ante un panel de jueces, aplicando los conocimientos adquiridos durante el programa de formación, con la esperanza de recibir un capital semilla no rembolsable que potencie aún más sus emprendimientos.  Desde 2019, The Trust for the Americas, en alianza con la Fundación AES Dominicana, ha estado implementando el proyecto Potenciando el Emprendimiento Innovador con el objetivo de contribuir al desarrollo económico local. Esto se realiza mediante el fortalecimiento de emprendimientos bajo el paradigma de la Low Touch Economy en la República Dominicana, adaptándose a las nuevas realidades del mercado. A través de iniciativas como estas, se reafirma el compromiso con el apoyo y fortalecimiento del espíritu emprendedor en San Antonio de Guerra. A través de la provisión de herramientas y conocimientos esenciales, estas organizaciones buscan capacitar a los emprendedores locales para que alcancen el éxito y contribuyan significativamente al desarrollo económico y social de su comunidad.  ***   Sobre The Trust for the Americas:  The Trust for the Americas es una entidad sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA). Establecida en 1997 para promover alianzas público-privadas, The Trust ha implementado proyectos en 24 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno.Nuestra alianza única con la OEA nos permite tener acceso a los tomadores de decisiones dentro de la región. Esta asociación fundamental es la base a través de la cual creamos redes sólidas en todos los estados miembros y el sector privado. A través del desarrollo de nuestra región, The Trust continúa contribuyendo a superar los desafíos a través de alianzas estratégicas que promueven la cooperación para resultados sostenibles.  The Trust for the Americas es una organización sin fines de lucro 501 (c) (3).    Sobre la Fundación AES Dominicana:  La Fundación AES dominicana es una organización sin fines de lucro que trabaja por la salud de la Tierra y por el bienestar de sus habitantes, especialmente a favor de las familias que viven en las comunidades donde se encuentran los activos de generación de electricidad del Grupo AES Dominicana. Se enfoca en atender las necesidades medioambientales, educativas y de salud como áreas prioritarias en las comunidades vecinas de nuestras plantas y en responder a las necesidades nacionales en situaciones de emergencia y desastres naturales.  República Dominicana

June 26, 2024, Asunción, Paraguay – June 25, 2024 – In today’s digital age, where access to technology defines economic opportunities, public-private partnerships have become the cornerstone of social development. As part of the 54th General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Asunción, Paraguay, the side event “Multisectoral Partnerships in the Digital Age” was held. This event highlighted the successful training of more than 1,000 Paraguayans in digital skills, opening new opportunities for entrepreneurs and citizens, and underscoring the importance of digital inclusion in economic development.  The Trust for the Americas, an OAS-affiliated organization, is leading this social and economic transformation by promoting projects that foster digital inclusion in the Americas. In collaboration with the Paraguayan Chamber of E-Commerce (CAPACE) and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, 14 training centers have been established across the country, providing participants with training in digital tools that are crucial for excelling in an ever-changing world.  Néstor Méndez, Assistant Secretary General of the OAS, noted: “The work of The Trust for the Americas illustrates how initiatives supported by the OAS General Secretariat can have a profound and lasting impact on communities. By training more people in our region, we are not only providing essential tools for the present but also building a more inclusive and prosperous future.”  Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas, said: “These centers are a shining example of public-private collaboration, demonstrating how access to technology can transform lives. We are proud to see how these initiatives facilitate the integration of more people into the digital world, enabling them to advance economically and socially.”  With a network spanning nearly 400 technology centers and innovation labs across 22 countries in the Americas, The Trust for the Americas, in partnership with organizations such as Microsoft, has impacted millions of people, bridging the digital divide and creating new economic opportunities. Despite initiatives such as these, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) reports that 37% of the population in Latin America still lacks adequate access to technology. The World Bank highlights that improving this access could lift 12 million people out of extreme poverty in the region by 2030.  Javier Giménez, Minister of Industry and Commerce, highlighted the transformative power of these initiatives, which have trained more than 1,000 people in less than a year—an achievement that underscores the effectiveness of the collaboration. “This is a commendable and effective effort that will bring about profound change in Paraguay, and if we’ve reached 1,000 beneficiaries, I challenge you to make that number 5,000 by next year,” he said.  For his part, Gustavo Giménez, Deputy Minister of MSMEs, commented that “through this partnership, we can forge the paths we believe will drive the growth of the entrepreneurial sector, using technology that is vital for strengthening MSMEs.”  The commitment of organizations, governments, and businesses at the regional level is essential for building a more equitable and connected hemisphere. As the digital age advances, coordination is crucial to ensure that the benefits of technology are accessible to all, thereby promoting inclusive and sustainable development for future generations.  Andrés Veirano, President of CAPACE, stated: “Being part of this network fills us with pride, as it has empowered the entrepreneurs who visit us daily by providing them with the tools they need to thrive, and one statistic we want to highlight is the participation of women, who have accounted for 81% of the program’s beneficiaries.”  The event, held in conjunction with the OAS General Assembly, was attended by key leaders such as Néstor Mendez, OAS Assistant Secretary General; Javier Giménez, Minister of Industry and Commerce; Gustavo Giménez, Deputy Minister of MSMEs; Andrés Veirano, President of CAPACE; and members of the private sector committed to the cause. This partnership highlights the importance and value of promoting technological development in Paraguay and across the continent. *** About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, The Trust has implemented projects in 29 countries and has worked with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique partnership with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This vital partnership serves as the foundation through which we build strong networks across all member states and the private sector. As our region develops, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that foster cooperation for sustainable results.   About CAPACE: The Paraguayan Chamber of E-Commerce (CAPACE) brings together more than 170 companies and entrepreneurs from different sectors of the economy, creating opportunities for the local and international markets through the internet. Its goal is to ensure that e-commerce becomes established as a new form of interaction between individuals and businesses, thereby becoming a key ally for the social and economic development of Paraguay and its regional economies.  This association was founded in response to the need to promote e-commerce in Paraguay, establish a legal framework for it, provide training on e-commerce, and thereby help entrepreneurs make the leap into this new technology-driven era. The chamber actively collaborates with the government, chambers of commerce throughout Latin America, and multilateral organizations to advance these objectives and continues to grow in membership and influence within the national economy. 

June 26, 2024, Valencia, Trinidad and Tobago – June 22, 2024 – Citi Trinidad and Tobago is delighted to announce an exceptional and engaging celebration for the 19th annual Global Community Day (GCD) at the H2O Grow agricultural farm in Valencia. This event, held in collaboration with beneficiaries from The Trust for the Americas’ DIA Youth Innovation Lab TT—implemented by CARIRI—invited participants and their families to step away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the vibrant world of sustainable farming. Attendees gained hands-on experience, fostering a deeper connection with their community and the environment. Founded by the visionary Antonio Ramcharan, winner of the DIA Pitch Tank Competition 2024, H2O Grow is a beacon of sustainable innovation. This remarkable farm uses hydroponics technology and custom-developed modular drip irrigation systems to produce organic food locally without the use of pesticides or insecticides. Antonio’s dedication to sustainable farming offers healthier food options and sets a powerful example for sustainable agriculture. The day was a whirlwind of interactive activities, designed to educate and inspire. Over 40 Citi volunteers and their family members had the unique opportunity to connect with beneficiaries from the DIA Lab, fostering community bonds and sharing experiences. Volunteers immersed themselves in farm activities, participating in icebreaker farm games, taking a tour of the farm, decorating pots, setting up seedling trays to learn about the life cycle of a plant, planting seedlings, planting hydroponic lettuce, planting chives, and planting trees.  Melissa London, Senior Executive Assistant & PAO at Citi TT, shared: “The event struck the perfect balance between informative content and engaging fun. It provided a unique opportunity for our volunteers to learn about sustainable farming while enjoying hands-on activities. The experience left us all feeling more connected to our community and inspired by the innovative techniques we encountered. It was truly unforgettable.” In his closing remarks, Mitchell De Silva, CCO & Head of Banking at Citibank Trinidad & Tobago, said: “Citi’s Global Community Day fosters a variety of things—it’s a time to make an impact on our community, to build camaraderie, to learn, and to grow.  Our efforts are aimed at making a real and sustainable difference in the lives of the people we meet. On June 22, Citi visited a farm in Valencia to spend time with a young farmer, Antonio Ramcharan, a mechanical engineer by training whose life challenges led him to choose a different path.  Antonio’s drive led him to establish a farm in Valencia, where he grows lettuce using hydroponic technology. His farm primarily serves the Sangre Grande community, but he has ambitions to expand beyond those borders.  Our team spent the day listening to Antonio’s inspirational story and his plans, while doing what we could to lend a hand on the farm itself. Although our focus on this day is typically on what we can do for the people we assist, I believe the opposite happened on the 22nd—Antonio, without a doubt, gave us more than he received. Global Community Day 2024 will be remembered for its unique and enriching experience.” Global Community Day is an integral part of Citi’s annual company-wide day of service. This initiative creates valuable team-building opportunities, allowing employees to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Whether mentoring youth, conserving parks, or educating the public about sustainable ecosystems, GCD activities are designed to address a wide range of community needs.  In June 2021, The Trust for the Americas, in partnership with the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) and with financial support from the Citi Foundation, launched the DIA Lab in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. This initiative empowers young innovators and disruptive entrepreneurs to create low-cost, high-impact solutions that provide affordable access and livelihood opportunities for their communities. The DIA Lab TT’s mission is to promote innovation and foster the creation of disruptive solutions among the youth of Trinidad and Tobago. By providing training and access to cutting-edge technology, the lab aims to develop skills that will enable long-term, sustainable community development. ***       About Trust for the Americas:      The Trust for the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities and foster innovation in vulnerable communities throughout the hemisphere. To this end, Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.       More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org        About Citi: Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and operates in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions. Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management.    Additional information can be found at www.citigroup.com | Twitter: @Citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Blog: http://blog.citigroup.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi.   About the Citi Foundation: The Citi Foundation works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. We invest in efforts that increase financial inclusion, create job opportunities for young people, and reimagine approaches to building economically vibrant communities. The Citi Foundation’s “More than Philanthropy” approach leverages the vast expertise of Citi and its people to fulfill our mission and drive thought leadership and innovation. For more information, visit www.citifoundation.com.  Trinidad & Tobago

June 3, 2024, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico – As part of the Skills for Sustainability (S4S) – Jale por el Agua Project, a joint initiative between The Trust for the Americas and Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC), the second graduation ceremony was held, where 57 young people—who have now acquired life, work, and technical skills—received certificates of proficiency in water management and operations. Currently, 47 graduates reported being in various stages of development and growth. Among these, notable developments include connecting with educational opportunities, launching entrepreneurial ventures in the plumbing sector, securing job opportunities, and receiving promotions in their current jobs. This commitment to continuous learning, entrepreneurial innovation, and professional advancement demonstrates the determination and forward-thinking vision of this generation of water specialists. Jorge Márquez, Project Manager, commented: “At The Trust for the Americas, we celebrate the work of our local partner, Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC), as well as the persistence and resilience of each of our graduates from Skills for Sustainability – Jale por el Agua. We celebrate that they overcame all adversities, and that their sacrifice and effort will not only provide a better future for themselves and their families but also for hundreds of thousands of people in their communities as they join the workforce in the water sector in Ciudad Juárez.” The Skills for Sustainability (S4S)—Jale por el Agua—is part of the Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA) and is made possible thanks to financial support from the North American Development Bank (NADBank), Microsoft, and other private-sector companies such as Water House Group. This project aims to empower 200 young people in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and 200 young people in El Paso, Texas, by connecting at least 50% of the participants with high-quality job opportunities in the water sector. This achievement was made possible by JCC’s strategic partnerships with public and private institutions, such as the Secretariat of Human Development and the Common Good, the Ciudad Juárez Chamber of Commerce (CANACO), Municipal Community Centers, Integrated Community Service Centers, the Juárez Municipal Water and Sanitation Board, Veolia, and the Chihuahua Institute for Training and Technological Linkages (ICATECH). José Ramón Garrido Susacasa, National Executive Director of Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad AC, added: “We are deeply grateful to all the institutions that have enabled ”Jale por el Agua/Skills for Sustainability‘ to achieve more than originally anticipated. With support from Cecati 87 in hydraulic systems and from ICATECH in basic plumbing, we were able to adapt the technical training to the reality in Juárez, and the participation of the young people of Juárez has far exceeded our expectations. ’This project is truly at the forefront of developing skills that will help solve the serious problems facing our community, especially regarding water management,” he stated.” The project’s curriculum provides the skills sought by employers, helping to bridge the gap between those aspiring to stable careers in the water sector and the companies that rely heavily on this valuable resource and urgently need a skilled workforce to operate and maintain their facilities effectively. In Ciudad Juárez, more than 30% of the population is under 25 years of age, underscoring the importance of training young people in skills critical to water sustainability and stewardship in a region where water resources are limited and their management is crucial for the future. For more information on the initiatives of The Trust for the Americas, please visit www.thetrustfortheamericas.org About The Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, The Trust has implemented projects in 29 countries and has worked with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. About POETA The Trust for the Americas collaborates with local partners in 21 countries in the Americas to establish centers that promote technical and vocational training. These centers leverage technology to create economic and educational opportunities for individuals in the Americas. About Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) JCC is a Mexican nonprofit organization established in 2004, dedicated to promoting human development, improving employment opportunities, and facilitating the return to school of young people in marginalized communities. Mexico