Comms

Mexico City, April 27, 2023.- The Trust for the Americas is launching the second year of implementation of the CIMA Project (Comprehensive Training for Women in Action), in partnership with Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) and the Centro Laboral México I.A.P. (CELAMEX). The goal is to train young women for entry into the workforce in the hospitality industry, which offers significant economic potential and supports income generation, especially for women seeking to begin a formal career.  In its first year, the CIMA Project trained 179 women in life skills, empowerment, digital skills, and technical skills specific to the hospitality industry. Of these, 119 have already secured employment opportunities at restaurants, hotels, or cafes in Mexico City, thanks to the vital support of local partners, Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad (JCC) and Servicios para la Juventud (SERAJ).   Lourdes Serrano, Project Manager in Mexico for The Trust for the Americas, noted that ”CIMA seeks to impact groups of young women in Mexico City by offering them a comprehensive training program that covers technical, life, digital, and empowerment skills.” Similarly, once participants complete and graduate from the full program, we support their transition into quality job opportunities with a focus on the hospitality industry, with the goal of helping them achieve financial independence and overall well-being for themselves and their families.“  Participants also receive comprehensive guidance and cross-cutting support services, such as personalized mentoring, psycho-emotional support, and stipends.   During the launch of the second phase of the CIMA Project, a new partner, Casa Nishi-Terán, presented the booklet ”Your Toolkit for Life,“ a resource that offers tools related to topics such as ”Experiencing Motherhood Without Guilt,“ ”Understanding the Importance of Individuality,“ ”Responsibilities Within the Home,“ ”Knowing How to Say No,“ and ”Discipline Through Love,” among others.   This initiative by The Trust for the Americas contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, such as poverty reduction, quality education, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, and reduced inequalities.  The launch event was attended by representatives from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, a donor to the CIMA Project; Silia Rodríguez and Hanae Nishizawa, representatives from Casa Nishi Terán; Karen Islas, a representative from JCC; Atenas Pérez, a representative from CELAMEX; and Nadia Cortés Moreno, a 2022 CIMA beneficiary. It is important to note that, since 2016, The Trust for the Americas has been working in Mexico to empower women. Between 2016 and 2019, it trained more than 53,000 people nationwide, providing tools that enable women’s economic development and improve their economic situation. For more information, visit:    Visit: www.trust-oea.org Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter:   @Trust4Americas 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 27 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 is 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 promote cooperation for sustainable results. Mexico

Panama City – March 30, 2023. The Trust for the Americas, through its program Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA), seeks to strengthen the capacities of the public sector and citizens by supporting the implementation of the Inter-American Open Data Program to Prevent and Combat Corruption (PIDA) in Panama. In collaboration with the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and the National Authority for Transparency and Access to Information (ANTAI) in Panama, the workshop “Participatory Prioritization of Public Data to Be Made Open for Anti-Corruption Purposes” was held on March 26, 27, and 28.  The workshop provided a space for co-creation and collective ideation for the Anti-Corruption Open Data Working Group, composed of various stakeholders from public institutions, civil society, and academia, with the aim of working toward the goal of implementing an open data process aligned with Panama’s open data governance model. This component will ensure the publication of priority data and data suitable for publication in open, neutral, and interoperable formats, in accordance with international open data standards on the web.  During the initiative, Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, stated: “The workshop on implementing open data as a tool to combat corruption in Panama is crucial for strengthening transparency and accountability in the country. Making government data open and accessible to the public promotes greater citizen participation in decision-making, which can lead to more effective and equitable policies for all Panamanians.”  Likewise, Elsa Fernández, Director General of ANTAI, stated: “Through this activity, we aim to establish a PIDA Open Data Working Group that will support the program’s implementation and ensure that the datasets identified in the anti-corruption agenda are made available; but more importantly, it will help us create opportunities for participation and collaborative work with other civil society organizations. Involving these actors in this process ensures that the needs and concerns of all stakeholders—not just a select group—are addressed; at the same time, we draw on their knowledge and enhance the trust and legitimacy of the implementation.”  The Inter-American Open Data Program to Prevent and Combat Corruption (PIDA) in Panama focuses on initiatives such as training, awareness-raising, action, and the incubation of citizen empowerment projects to create new channels for combating corruption through open data. This workshop is part of the effort to advance this crucial work.  ***  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 24 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 fundamental partnership is the foundation through which we build strong networks across all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that promote cooperation for sustainable results.    Facebook: The Trust for the Americas | Twitter: @Trust4Americas     About the Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program:    DIA is a regional initiative that promotes the strengthening of democratic processes in the region and the empowerment of new generations through access to technology training, specialized curricula, collaborative spaces, mentorship, and financial support for the development of social and economic ventures.     Panama

Port of Spain. March 28, 2023. In an exciting virtual event, the “Hack 4 Change” Regional Hackathon brought together young innovators from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Belize. This idea-generation event was organized by The Trust for the Americas‘ local partner, the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI), and focused on challenging participants from the Democratizing Innovation in the Americas’ Lab network to develop innovative technology-based solutions.  As part of the challenge, 15 participating teams—comprising developers, subject matter experts, and idea generators—had 48 hours to craft an ICT solution for three priority areas: Technology, Creative Economies, and Climate Action, with the hope of receiving $1,000 in seed funding. All the teams demonstrated their passion, creativity, and commitment to developing impactful ideas, making it difficult for the panel of multidisciplinary judges—including Lynette Akong, Gerard Thomas, Miguel Andrews, and Camille Pagee—who carefully evaluated each proposal. Winners were selected for each country: From the DIA Lab Trinidad and Tobago:    From the DIA Urban Lab in Jamaica: From the DIA Lab in Belize: Rodrigo Iriani, DIA Senior Program Manager at The Trust for the Americas, stated: “48 hours of idea generation and conceptualization have produced some truly impressive and innovative proposals. I am amazed by the quality and creativity of these ideas. We are immensely proud of the young people who participated in this Regional Hackathon and inspired to continue fostering innovation. These tech-based solutions are exactly what the region needs to tackle its most pressing problems. Keep thinking outside the box and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible!” These initiatives celebrate the achievements of these young innovators and highlight the importance of empowering, connecting, and inspiring the next generation of multi-sector innovators and entrepreneurs. Now in its third edition, the DIA Regional Hackathon aims to create livelihood opportunities across the region by fostering innovation. By providing a platform for young Caribbean innovators to showcase their talents and exchange ideas, the ’Hack 4 Change“ Regional Hackathon is helping to build a brighter future for the region and beyond.  *** About The 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, aim to improve access to economic opportunities and foster innovation in vulnerable communities throughout 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.trustfortheamericas.org Facebook: The Trust for the Americas | Twitter: @Trust4Americas Belize – Jamaica – Trinidad & Tobago

La Vega, Dominican Republic – March 10, 2023.  The Trust for the Americas, together with its local partner ADASEC RD and with financial support from the Citi Foundation, held the DIA Lab RD – La Vega Innovative Projects Pitch Competition for the second time. At this event, 21 projects were presented to a multidisciplinary jury in hopes of winning seed funding to strengthen and advance their ventures, which aim to provide solutions to social issues in their communities.  In his opening remarks, Rafael Lorenzo, president of ADASEC, exclaimed: “Long live the entrepreneurial spirit! I encourage you not to lose hope, because what truly matters is having the necessary tools—and you have them. You’ve had an opportunity that very few people have: access to technology, the ability to manage your finances, and the chance to compete for resources to carry out your ventures—and DIA Lab RD makes this possible. Your initiative and enthusiasm show me that our youth is not lost, but rather full of dreams—full of people who want to make things better and people who want to help.”   Likewise, Allen Feliz, Coordinator of the DIA Lab RD Project at ADASEC, concluded his welcome remarks by saying: “DIA Lab RD is yours—it provides $11,000 in seed capital for your ventures. We’ll provide day-to-day support, and after this process, we’ll meet to discuss the existing protocols and ongoing training. Don’t lose heart—DIA Lab RD is building a real story among the youth of the Dominican Republic.” The young people participated in groups or individually, after having prepared and developed their entrepreneurial proposals during several weeks of prior training and practice. Of the 21 projects, the following 11 were selected as winners: The DIA Labs in the Dominican Republic are part of a unique ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. They provide development opportunities for young people in the communities of Baní, La Vega, and Bonao through access to technology, collaborative spaces, training, and competitive seed funding. Young people gain the tools to develop their business ideas or launch social projects aimed at solving local challenges.   Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, reaffirmed the commitment to the community, commenting: “We are confident that the work we do through this partnership will provide the skills and tools necessary to develop leaders who will be instrumental in building an inclusive society. That is why, through the DIA Labs, we seek to provide our youth with opportunities that empower them and create the conditions necessary to improve their lives and those of their communities.”  The DIA Lab RD Innovative Projects Pitch Competition is just the first step in its entrepreneurial journey, which aims to improve participants’ quality of life, give back to the community, and make a difference in the lives of its people. Dominican Republic

Tegucigalpa, March 9, 2023. Fundación Terra, through its participation in the POETA Social Franchise (Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas) is joining forces with the international organization The Trust For The Americas and, in collaboration with Microsoft and the Nasser Foundation, is inaugurating the Digital Skills Center (POETA) at the Institute for Sustainable Development in the village of El Hatillo. This is the first of four POETA centers that the Terra Foundation will establish in Honduras during 2023 and subsequently throughout the region. The POETA Social Franchise seeks to promote the social and economic inclusion of vulnerable populations in Latin America and the Caribbean through access to, use of, and adoption of technologies and comprehensive in-person and virtual educational strategies. Through training in digital and life skills, the POETA Centers help people build a better future through economic opportunities such as finding employment, advancing in their careers, launching a micro-business, or continuing their education. The establishment of the POETA Center at the Institute for Sustainable Development will benefit 18 nearby communities, including El Reparto, La Estanzuela, La Canaán, Lomas del Hatillo, Carpintero, San Antonio, Hatillo, Lo de Ponce, Corralitos, Limones, Matasano, Primavera, La Puente, Jutiapa, Piligüin, Cantadora, Crucitas del Picacho, and Las Matas. The POETA Center will serve approximately 35,000 residents, who will be able to access and use technology to strengthen their capabilities, skills, and competencies, with the goal of fostering economic growth and promoting employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in their communities. Lara Bersano Calot, Director of Communications for The Trust for the Americas, noted during the center’s opening ceremony that “the work of the digital skills centers we’ve developed at The Trust for the Americas began in Central America in 2004. Since then, we have reached more than 4 million people in 27 countries, and in 2023 we are very proud to inaugurate our 351st center together with the TERRA Foundation and Microsoft. The network of which the POETA Center at the Institute for Sustainable Development is a part consists of 351 organizations dedicated to improving the lives of hundreds of people in each of their communities. Through this network, you’ll have access to up-to-date technologies and content, Microsoft licenses, resources for personal and entrepreneurial development, and, above all, access to a team of professionals who work every day to devise solutions and methodologies to support each person in our region, empowering them and enhancing their capacity for development.” The POETA Center will be open during daytime hours from Monday through Saturday for children, youth, and adults from the various communities surrounding the Institute for Sustainable Development, providing them with access to education and training platforms. Access to content that includes, among other things: Additionally, Microsoft, as a partner of The Trust for the Americas, provides software licenses (Windows and Office Suite). The President of the Nasser Foundation, Architect Fredy Nasser, commented: ”We are pleased to open the doors of this POETA Center, through which we will continue our commitment to creating conditions that facilitate access to connectivity for educational purposes in the village of El Hatillo. We are confident that through this center, community members will acquire new skills and abilities that will enable them to access jobs that contribute to their economic growth.” For her part, Mariel Rivera, Executive Director of the Terra Foundation, stated: “At Fundación Terra, together with The Trust for the Americas, we will continue to join forces to implement the four POETA Centers in Honduras, to create comprehensive and inclusive educational opportunities that provide digital and life skills, with the goal of fostering citizens committed to the development of their communities.” For more information, visit: https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA/poeta-digispark Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter: @Trust4Americas 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 24 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 allows us to engage with decision-makers throughout the region. This fundamental partnership is 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 promote cooperation for sustainable results. About the POETA Social Franchise The POETA Social Franchise (FSP) stems from The Trust for the Americas“ flagship program “Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA),” with the aim of replicating and expanding this model of successful practices with significant social impact in a standardized manner so that a greater number of organizations can offer their participants: high-quality resources, services, and benefits throughout the Americas. About the Terra Foundation: The Terra Foundation is a non-governmental development organization with extensive experience in implementing programs and projects in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. Its social work focuses on objectives aimed at improving the quality of life, socioeconomic well-being, and the environment of our communities through four areas of action: quality education, social infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and the environment. Honduras

Choluteca, March 8, 2023. Fundación Terra, through its membership in the POETA Social Franchise (Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas), is joining forces with the international organization The Trust For The Americas, in collaboration with Microsoft, and the companies Mecanismos de Energía Renovable (MECER) and Generacion Renovable de Honduras (HELIOS), is inaugurating the POETA Digital Skills Center at the San José de la Landa Community Center in Choluteca. This is the second of four POETA centers that the Terra Foundation will establish in Honduras during 2023 and subsequently throughout the region, in accordance with its commitments as a member of the Partnership for Central America (PCA). The POETA Social Franchise seeks to promote the social and economic inclusion of vulnerable populations in Latin America and the Caribbean through access to, use of, and adoption of comprehensive in-person and virtual educational technologies and strategies. Through training in digital life skills, POETA Centers help people build a better future through economic opportunities such as finding employment, advancing in their careers, launching a micro-business, or continuing their education. The establishment of the POETA Center at the San José de la Landa Community Center will benefit three nearby communities, including San José de la Landa, La Fortunita, and Montecillos. The POETA Center will serve approximately 1,341 residents, who will be able to access and use technology to strengthen their capabilities, skills, and competencies, with the goal of fostering economic growth and promoting employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in their communities. Lara Bersano Calot, Director of Communications at The Trust for the Americas, emphasized during the center’s opening ceremony that “The work of the digital skills centers we’ve developed at The Trust for the Americas began in Central America in 2004. Since then, we have reached more than 4 million people in 27 countries, and in 2023 we are very proud to inaugurate our 361st center together with Fundación TERRA, MECER, HELIOS, and Microsoft. The network of which the POETA Center at the San José de la Landa Community Center is a part consists of 361 organizations dedicated to improving the lives of hundreds of people in each of their communities. Through this network, you’ll have access to up-to-date technologies and content, Microsoft licenses, resources for personal and entrepreneurial development, and, above all, access to a team of professionals who work every day to devise solutions and methodologies to support each person in our region, empowering them and enhancing their capacity for development.” The POETA Center will be open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for children, youth, and adults from the various communities surrounding the Community Center, through which they will have access to education and training platforms. Access to content that includes, among other things: Additionally, Microsoft, as a partner of The Trust for the Americas, provides software licenses (Windows and Office Suite). Paola Villanueva, Sustainability Manager at MECER and HELIOS, commented: ”We are very pleased to open the POETA Center in San José de la Landa, one of the communities served by our solar parks, MECER and HELIOS. We hope that neighboring businesses and communities will take advantage of this training space, as we believe that investing in education and the development of technological skills will provide young people with better opportunities for personal and professional growth.” For her part, Mariel Rivera, Executive Director of Fundación Terra, stated: “At Fundación Terra, together with The Trust for the Americas, we will continue to join forces to implement the first four POETA Centers in Honduras, to create comprehensive and inclusive educational opportunities that foster digital and life skills, with the goal of shaping citizens committed to the development of their communities.” For more information, visit: https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA/poeta-digispark Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter: @Trust4Americas 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 24 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 fundamental partnership is 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 promote cooperation for sustainable results. About the POETA Social Franchise The POETA Social Franchise (FSP) emerged from The Trust for the Americas“ flagship program “Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA),” with the aim of replicating and expanding this model of successful practices with significant social impact in a standardized manner so that a greater number of organizations can offer their participants: high-quality resources, services, and benefits in the Americas. About Fundación Terra: Fundación Terra is a development nongovernmental organization with extensive experience in implementing programs and projects in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. Its social work focuses on objectives aimed at improving the quality of life, socioeconomic well-being, and the environment of our communities through four areas of action: quality education, social infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and the environment. About Mecanismos de Energía Renovable (MECER) and Generación Renovable de Honduras (HELIOS): The MECER and HELIOS photovoltaic plants,  located in the department of Choluteca, benefit more than 1,341 residents in the communities of San José de la Landa, Montecillo, and La Fortunita through programs focused on community transformation, financial inclusion, climate change management, and the formation of strategic partnerships,

Marzo 2 de 2023. San Andrés, Colombia – The Trust for the Americas y la Secretaría de Educación de la Gobernación del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina inauguraron el Centro POETA – Casa Lúdica del Cove.  Esta apertura se suma a los 21 centros que ya ofrecen capacitaciones en habilidades digitales en varias localidades de Colombia. Este logro fue posible gracias a la donación de 20 computadoras por parte de la Fundación Lenovo, así como licencias de Microsoft y toda la oferta educativa con la que cuenta la Franquicia Social POETA de The Trust for the Americas. La Franquicia Social POETA (Programa de Oportunidades Económicas a través de la Tecnología en las Américas) impulsa el desarrollo integral de las personas a través de la tecnología por medio de la capacitación y el entrenamiento en habilidades que mejoren las oportunidades económicas de poblaciones en situación de vulnerabilidad. Con el apoyo de la Secretaría de Educación de la Gobernación del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina, más de 300 personas jóvenes y población vulnerable; principalmente en las comunidades cercanas al centro, tendrán acceso a capacitación y a beneficios para generar oportunidades económicas y aportar al desarrollo social local. Linda Eddleman, Directora Ejecutiva de The Trust for the Americas destacó que “durante 25 años, desde The Trust for the Americas hemos trabajado en pos de la igualdad y la equidad para las comunidades que viven alguna condición de vulnerabilidad. Me emociona saber que a través de la Franquicia Social POETA, continuaremos apoyando a más personas colombianas”. Por su parte, la Secretaria de Educación del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina, Lucila Morelos Páez, resaltó la importancia de este centro, el cuál será sin lugar a dudas un espacio que va a permitir a la comunidad (niños, jóvenes, madres cabeza de hogar), pequeños negocios y emprendedores que puedan acceder a las herramientas digitales necesarias para brindar un mejor servicio, nuevas habilidades y ser más competitivos en el mercado local, aportando desarrollo en el territorio insular. Adicionalmente, agradeció a The Trust for the Americas y la Fundación Lenovo por el valioso aporte que le entregan a la comunidad de la isla. Asimismo, en Lenovo Colombia resaltaron que, “desde Lenovo hemos venido trabajando en fortalecer la educación como un agente de transformación social. Estamos convencidos que la tecnología está generando un impacto positivo en la pedagogía y que es un vehículo de oportunidades para el desarrollo del país. Con el propósito de seguir llevando tecnología más inteligente para todos estamos proponiendo soluciones para los retos actuales de equidad, acceso a la educación y brecha digital en Colombia”, aseguró Jorge Ramírez, Government and Education Business Manager de Lenovo Colombia. En la inauguración estuvieron presentes Linda Eddleman, Directora Ejecutiva de The Trust for the Americas, Lucila Morelos, Secretaria de Educación de la Gobernación del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina, Luis Viloria Howard, Gobernador (E) del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina, Estudiantes y Representantes de la comunidad del sector del Cove. Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  Twitter: @Trust4Americas 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. Colombia

Bogota Colombia. – After the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment and underemployment rates increased in countries like Colombia. Its most vulnerable populations face difficulties in accessing training options, especially those that involve digital and technical skills. Access to these opportunities is key to revitalizing economies and increasing the competitiveness of people, particularly those looking to get their first job. In this sense, The Trust for the Americas is committed to the development and professional growth of people and, therefore, offers them the possibility of strengthening their skills and knowledge. Hand in hand with Microsoft Philanthropies and in association with a network of local partners, The Trust implements the POETA DigiSpark Project, which focuses on providing training in digital, technical and life skills, in order to facilitate access to economic opportunities and schools in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico and Uruguay. The Trust for the Americas, as a regional NGO, strengthens ties between the public and private sectors to impact the lives of millions of people. Therefore, in 2022, EY joined the POETA DigiSpark initiative to offer Future Skills Workshops courses and help beneficiaries acquire the necessary skills for employability. Through the EY Future Skills Workshops content series, POETA DigiSpark contributes to strengthening the capacities of our network of local partners so that they, in turn, are better positioned to promote 21st century skills among teachers and vulnerable communities. . In Colombia, this alliance has the support of the local partner Fundación Laudes Infantis, which will allow face-to-face training for participants of this POETA center. In turn, hundreds of more people will benefit through training, both face-to-face and virtual, that Laudes Infantis will implement throughout 2023. During the presentation event, Linda Eddleman, CEO at The Trust for the Americas, highlighted that “The essence of our work at The Trust for the Americas is to create solid alliances to promote the transformation of the communities of the region through inclusion economic and social. Training in digital skills and the use of technology allow people to prepare and train for work or boost their ventures. This is a very successful work model that we have been developing for 25 years and Colombia has been and is one of the countries where our impact and success have been proven since we began our work in the region.” These workshops will be led by volunteers who work at EY, who will train people over 16 years of age, especially the unemployed and/or underemployed, in digital, technical and life skills. This will make it easier for them to compete in the labor market, whether it is in the search for a job, a promotion, an internship, as well as in the creation or strengthening of a business, or when starting or advancing in their formal education. “At EY we are very excited about this collaboration that allows us to reach vulnerable communities with the knowledge, experience and skills of our professionals, and thus promote the development of talent among young people and women in search of opportunities, facilitating their connection to the labor market. . We need to promote quality education in the country, which transforms the lives of future generations. This alliance with Microsoft and The Trust for the Americas allows us to accelerate the multiplier effect of our EY Ripples corporate responsibility program, to fulfill our purpose of building a better business world,” says Beatriz Carmona, Lead Partner of Technology Consulting at EY for North Latin America. On the other hand, Almudena Rivas, Director of Social and Productive Development of the Laudes Infantis Foundation, highlights that for 11 years the Foundation has had an alliance with the Trust for The Americas – OEA, and with Microsoft through the DigiSpark project. Progress has been made in creating educational and economic opportunities through technology for young people and adults in vulnerable conditions, who live in the south of Bogotá. Almudena is pleased that EY has joined this effort, contributing its catalog of short and asynchronous courses, whose contents clarify and strengthen, in a didactic and accessible way, those skills that are required for the jobs of the future. Rivas shares that at Laudes Infantis they are excited to be able to count on a group of EY volunteers this Friday, February 24, who will develop some of these workshops in person at the POETA centers in Ciudad Bolívar and Usme. “There we will wait for them with open arms to continue working to generate more and better conditions for these young people and women from the south of Bogotá,” shares Almudena.  The Trust for the Americas, through the POETA DigiSpark Project, since 2013, has directly trained 74,838 people aged 16 and over and teachers in digital, technical and life skills. In addition to facilitating 27,287 economic and educational opportunities. For more information visit: https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA/poeta-digispark Facebook: The Trust for the Americas   Twitter: @Trust4Americas   About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit entity affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). Established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, The Trust has implemented projects in 24 countries and has worked with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives seek to promote educational and economic opportunity, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique alliance with the OAS allows us to have access to decision makers within the region. This fundamental partnership is the foundation through which we create strong networks in all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, The Trust continues to contribute to overcome challenges through strategic alliances that promote cooperation for sustainable results. About EY: EY exists to build a better business world, helping to create long-term value for its clients, its people and society at large, as well as building trust in the capital markets. Through data and technology, EY’s diverse and inclusive teams, located in more than 150 countries, deliver confidence through audit and help clients grow, transform and operate. EY’s multidisciplinary approach across audit, consulting, legal, strategy, tax and transactions empowers

September 28, 2022 (Washington, D.C., and Gatineau, Que.) – The Trust for the Americas, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) are pleased to announce the Canadian launch of a digital skills training initiative for Indigenous peoples that has proven successful throughout Latin America. The POETA DigiSpark Canada Project, which will contribute to economic inclusion, reconciliation, and resilience, is designed to equip Indigenous peoples with skills in the high-demand technology and digital services industries. The POETA program began in 2004, and the POETA DigiSpark project launched in 2012; it now operates in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. The Canadian pilot project marks the first time POETA DigiSpark will be implemented with a partner in Canada. Under the terms of a memorandum of understanding signed by The Trust for the Americas and NWAC, the Trust will provide NWAC with the program template, including training for trainers and hands-on experience for participants. In addition to culturally sensitive training in digital literacy and computer skills, participants will learn life skills necessary for the workplace. The initiative will be funded by public and private entities. Training will be offered at NWAC’s new Social, Cultural, and Economic Innovation Centre in Gatineau, Que., and will also be available remotely to allow those living outside the National Capital Region to participate. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate of competence. “NWAC is thrilled to have been selected to run this remarkable program in Canada,” said NWAC Chief Executive Officer Lynne Groulx. “Indigenous women, transgender, and gender-diverse people have been left behind when it comes to economic reconciliation. Only 2.2 percent of employees in the tech workforce are Indigenous. We need to take concrete action to end that economic marginalization, and this project will help address that inequity.” Linda Eddleman, CEO of Trust for the Americas, noted that “we are especially honored to announce this program in the year of our 25th anniversary.  The Trust for the Americas was established in 1997 to promote public-private partnerships, and since then, we have implemented projects in 26 countries and worked with over 1,000 organizations. Our unique alliance with the OAS provides access to decision-makers throughout the region. This foundational partnership is the basis upon which we build strong networks across member states and the private sector. I would like to personally thank OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro, NWAC Executive Director Lynne Groulx, and Dr. Daniel Cano, Senior Advisor to the Secretary General on Indigenous Affairs, for joining us for this announcement.” Finally, Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the OAS, concluded the announcement event by noting that “according to the American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, adopted by the OAS member states in June 2016, and the subsequent Plan of Action, I see how this project addresses critical issues affecting indigenous peoples in the hemisphere. The success of the project should serve as a model for achieving inclusive, sustainable, social, and economic development in partnership with Indigenous communities and the region as a whole.” — 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 is incorporated in the U.S. and has a legal presence in Canada. The Trust has implemented projects in 26 countries and worked with over 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives aim to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. As our region evolves, The Trust continues to thrive by addressing challenges through strategic partnerships that foster cooperation for sustainable outcomes. The Trust of the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. About NWAC The Native Women’s Association of Canada is a national Indigenous organization representing the political voices of Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people in Canada, including First Nations people—both on and off reserve, status and non-status, and disenfranchised—as well as Inuit and Métis. It was founded on the collective goals of enhancing, promoting, and fostering the social, economic, cultural, and political well-being of Indigenous women in their respective communities and in Canadian society. Canada

September 1, 2022 – Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. – The AES Dominicana Foundation, in partnership with The Trust for the Americas, concluded the training sessions for the “Empowering Innovative Entrepreneurship” project. Through this initiative and its training sessions, 170 people created and strengthened their businesses aimed at local development in the municipalities of Boca Chica, La Caleta, and Los Mina. Over the course of four months, the beneficiaries received training in digital and business tools, managerial and administrative skills, as well as personalized mentoring for new entrepreneurs. As part of this project, three entrepreneurship fairs were held on August 29 and 31. At these events, participants competed in a pitch contest for a financial incentive to develop or expand their businesses. During the event, the beneficiaries had the opportunity to showcase their products and services to potential customers. Serving as judges for the occasion were Madelka MacCalla, Global Vice President of Stakeholders and Social Impact at AES Corporation, who visited the country to participate in the fair, Bredyg Disla, Executive Vice President of the AES Dominicana Foundation; Luz Marina Correa, Project Manager at The Trust for the Americas; and executives from the National Council for the Promotion and Support of Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (Promipyme). “We decided to launch a second phase of this initiative after reviewing the success stories of the individuals who received training in 2019; today, they share how they have developed successful business models and have served as channels for replicating what they learned. ”At the AES Dominicana Foundation, we have decided to continue strengthening this entrepreneurship program by expanding it to other locations nationwide. To this end, we have also formed a partnership with Promipyme, facilitating access to soft loans for the entrepreneurs we have trained and pre-screened,“ said Edwin De los Santos, President of the AES Dominicana Foundation. In this regard, Luz Marina Correa, Project Manager at The Trust for the Americas, commented that ”the selection of the winning projects was carried out by a panel of judges representing AES Dominicana, The Trust for the Americas, and other experts in the fields of business development, who evaluated each project’s financial viability, sustainability, creativity, innovation, and coherence in its business model.“ On this occasion, both institutions congratulated all project participants, with a special mention for the winners of the pitch competition. Linda Eddleman, Executive Director of The Trust for the Americas, celebrated this event, noting that ”since 2011, we have been working with the AES Corporation to support vulnerable people in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Panama, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. We are very pleased with the achievements made over the years, and we know that together we will continue to bridge gaps in our hemisphere.” It is worth noting that the partnership between AES Dominicana and The Trust for the Americas has benefited 340 people, who have strengthened their entrepreneurial ventures through training and financial incentives, while others have received support through specialized mentoring. — 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 24 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 fundamental partnership is the foundation through which we build strong networks across all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, The Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic partnerships that promote cooperation for sustainable results. www.trustfortheamericas.org About the AES Dominicana Foundation The AES Dominicana Foundation is an organization dedicated to the health of the Earth and the well-being of its inhabitants; We focus on addressing environmental, cultural, entrepreneurial, and “orange economy” needs as essential areas for ensuring sustainable human development. We also respond to national needs during emergencies and natural disasters.  About AES Corporation: AES Corporation is a Fortune 200 global energy company. It provides affordable and sustainable energy to 15 countries through a diverse portfolio of distribution businesses, as well as thermal and renewable generation facilities. Dominican Republic