Leonardo Velez De Villa

June 9, 2023 Monterrey, Nuevo León, May 31, 2023 – The Trust for the Americas, in partnership with the Santa Catarina Technological University (UTSC), is pleased to announce its official launch as a Microsoft Authorized Certifying Center, Certiport. This important certification positions UTSC as a leader in training and certification in cutting-edge technology in the country.   In collaboration with Certiport, a global leader in digital certifications, UTSC is now recognized as a Certiport Authorized Testing Center for obtaining Microsoft Learn certifications. This strategic partnership will allow participants in the Program for Education and Technological Opportunities for the Americas (POETA) at UTSC to access quality training and earn official Microsoft certifications.   UTSC has been selected as a local partner of POETA DigiSpark since 2014, and this new achievement strengthens its position as a leader in technology education in the region. Through its experience and commitment to academic excellence, UTSC has demonstrated its ability to prepare students and professionals for the challenges of the digital world.  Verónica Philippe, Project Manager at The Trust for the Americas, noted: ”On behalf of The Trust for the Americas, we thank UTSC for this partnership, which allows us to celebrate nearly 10 years of the POETA Center. Now, as a Microsoft Certification Center, UTSC is further expanding its leading role in training in key digital skills to meet the surge of technology companies coming to invest in Nuevo León.”  As an Authorized Microsoft Certification Center, UTSC will be equipped with the necessary resources to provide an optimal and reliable testing experience. Participants will have access to a variety of training and assessment programs, including certifications in areas such as software development, database administration, and data analysis.  In this regard, Lara Bersano Calot, Director of Communications for The Trust for the Americas, congratulated UTSC officials and invited the hundreds of young people present at the ceremony to “think about all the life opportunities that young people in Monterrey can have through access to technology, promoting joint projects that benefit their community and build a bright future for everyone.”   At the ceremony, The Trust for the Americas presented UTSC with a plaque of recognition, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence and the development of digital skills. This distinction is a testament to UTSC’s hard work and constant effort in promoting technology education.    MAAP Laura Madrigal González, president of UTSC, acknowledged “the strategic partnership that the Santa Catarina Technological University has had with The Trust for the Americas since 2014. ”The support provided through the POETA center and the DIA lab has had a significant social impact, and these tools help us work every day in the field of education with a broader vision.”  Likewise, The Trust for the Americas took advantage of this milestone to host its first Board of Directors meeting of 2023. During this meeting, the organization’s executives had the opportunity to hear the stories of some of the program participants, thanks to the digital and technological skills they gained through the #POETADigiSpark and #DIA programs.   During the meeting, Emmanuel Loo, Undersecretary of Investment for the Nuevo León State Ministry of Economy, representing Governor Samuel García Sepúlveda, congratulated both institutions for creating a project with significant social impact on the development of the state’s human capital skills and competencies. This is crucial, as the companies that choose to establish themselves in Nuevo León every day are looking for highly skilled individuals.       *** 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 foster cooperation for sustainable outcomes.  Mexico

June 9, 2023, Santiago, Chile (May 25, 2023) – With the mission of boosting employability and transforming the lives of vulnerable populations in Chile, The Trust for the Americas has established a strategic partnership with Ernst & Young (EY) and Microsoft. This alliance aims to empower people through training in digital and technical skills, increasing their competitiveness in the labor market and opening the door to new economic opportunities, especially for those looking for their first job. The Trust for the Americas, an international NGO with a significant impact throughout the Americas, fosters synergies between the public and private sectors, seeking to bring about positive change in the lives of millions of people. In 2022, Ernst & Young (EY) took the initiative and joined the POETA DigiSpark project to deliver Future Skills Workshops, a platform designed to help participants acquire the skills necessary for employability in today’s world. It should be noted that Microsoft and The Trust have been partners for more than 15 years, working to empower vulnerable communities in the Americas through access to, use of, and mastery of technology. Funded by Microsoft Philanthropy, the POETA DigiSpark project continues to spearhead Microsoft’s Global Skilling Initiative in Latin America and the Caribbean. This is made possible by providing access to training and mentoring for people most affected by recent job losses or who are at risk of being replaced by automation. During the opening of this meeting, Verónica Philippe, Manager of the POETA DigiSpark Project at Trust for the Americas, emphasized that “It is thanks to the partnership between various stakeholders—including private companies, social organizations, and NGOs, as well as international organizations—that we are able to bring international development initiatives such as today’s training to fruition.” Verónica went on to thank POETA DigiSpark’s local partners in Chile—Innovacien, CDI Chile, and Fundación Lace—for their tremendous support, as well as Fundación de las Familias for their willingness and commitment in providing the space at their training center to host the event. As part of this partnership, EY volunteers led these workshops, providing training in FSW Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy to people over the age of 16, particularly those who are unemployed or underemployed. This training opens up opportunities to compete in the labor market, whether by seeking a job, a promotion, or an internship; creating or strengthening a business; or beginning or advancing in formal education. In this regard, Patricio Cofre, a partner in Data Analytics Consulting at EY Chile, commented: “Helping people improve their economic opportunities through the use of modern tools brings us closer to our purpose as a company. We are very pleased with the outcome of this event, and we hope to continue amplifying this impact in future activities.” The Trust for the Americas, together with EY and Microsoft Filantropías, underscores a strong commitment to professional development and growth in Chile through its local partners, such as Innovacien, Fundación Lace, CDI Chile, and Fundación de las Familias. Through this, they aim to expand the scope of the training initiative of The Trust for the Americas’ POETA DigiSpark Project, which seeks to promote economic and educational opportunities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. Microsoft has been a crucial pillar in the development of The Trust for the Americas’ POETA DigiSpark project. In this regard, Jorge Cella, Director of Philanthropy at Microsoft Latin America, noted that “collaboration, technological learning, and inclusion are key for Microsoft. By equipping people with digital skills, we aim to support them so they can improve their employment prospects and better adapt to the changing needs of the market. We cannot achieve these objectives on our own; the only way to begin addressing these social problems is by collaborating with various organizations. This partnership will enable us to continue working together to meet people’s needs quickly and effectively, so that they can secure new and better job opportunities.” Since its inception in 2013, The Trust for the Americas, through the POETA DigiSpark project, has made a tangible impact, directly training nearly 75,000 people ages 16 and older, as well as educators, in digital, technical, and life skills. 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 collaborated with more than 1,000 organizations in the region. Our initiatives aim to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique alliance with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This fundamental partnership serves as the foundation through which we build strong networks in all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic alliances that foster 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 fostering trust in the capital markets. Through data and technology, EY’s diverse and inclusive teams, located in more than 150 countries, instill confidence through audit and help clients grow, transform, and operate. EY’s multidisciplinary approach across audit, consulting, legal, strategy, tax, and transactions empowers EY teams to ask better questions and find new answers to the complex issues facing our world today. About Innovacien: It is a nonprofit organization that promotes creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the educational system, seeking to develop new learning models based on practical experience that will enable people to become active participants in the global knowledge society. To promote the thoughtful and creative use of new information and communication technologies (ICT), Innovacien provides training and support to various audiences in educational institutions, as well as to entrepreneurs and other foundations. Expanding its original scope

February 17, 2023, Mexico City. – Following the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment and underemployment rates rose in countries such as Mexico and Colombia. The most vulnerable populations in these countries face difficulties in accessing training opportunities, especially those involving digital and technical skills. Access to these opportunities is key to revitalizing economies and enhancing people’s competitiveness, particularly for those seeking their first job. It should be noted that both countries are among the largest economies in Latin America and have been severely impacted by the pandemic. In this regard, Trust for the Americas is committed to the development and professional growth of individuals and, therefore, offers interested people the opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge. Working hand in hand with Microsoft Philanthropies and in partnership with a network of local partners, Trust implements the POETA DigiSpark Project, which focuses on providing training in digital, technical, and life skills to facilitate access to economic opportunities and education in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. Trust for the Americas, as a regional NGO, strengthens ties between the public and private sectors to improve the lives of millions of people. Consequently, in 2022, EY joined the POETA DigiSpark initiative to offer courses from the Future Skills Workshops program and help participants acquire the skills necessary for employability. Through the EY Future Skills Workshops content series, POETA DigiSpark helps build the capacity of our network of local partners so that they, in turn, are better equipped to promote 21st-century skills among teachers and vulnerable communities.    In Mexico, this alliance will be supported by the local partner Centro Laboral México I.A.P. (Celamex), which will enable in-person training for approximately 30 people. In turn, hundreds more people will benefit from training—both in-person and virtual—that Celamex will implement throughout 2023. Pierina Nepote, Senior Manager of the Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA), emphasized that “for POETA, it has been a privilege to have the support of Microsoft Philanthropies and to work with a partner like EY. Together, we have managed to provide practical content that contributes to the development of active and productive citizens who seek to have a positive impact on their communities. At Trust, we appreciate the support of Microsoft Philanthropies and EY in making it possible for thousands of people, including teachers, to benefit from the EY Future Skills Workshops and contribute to the comprehensive training of POETA DigiSpark participants.” These workshops will be led by volunteers from EY, who will train individuals over the age of 16—particularly those who are unemployed and/or underemployed—in digital, technical, and life skills. This will make it easier for them to compete in the labor market—whether they are looking for a job, seeking a promotion, applying for an internship, starting or growing a business, or beginning or advancing in their formal education. Diana Díaz, Director of Strategy and Head of Corporate Responsibility at EY Mexico, notes that “at EY, we are very excited about this collaboration, which allows us to reach vulnerable communities to share the knowledge, experience, and skills of our professionals, and thus promote the talent of young people who can be successfully integrated into the labor market. We need to promote quality education in the country, which transforms the lives of future generations. This alliance with The Trust for the Americas and Microsoft allows us to accelerate the multiplier effect of our EY Ripples corporate responsibility program, to fulfill our purpose of building a better business world.” On the other hand, Atenas Pérez, General Director of Celamex I.A.P., emphasized that, for Celamex, the promotion and holistic development of each of its young beneficiaries is essential. “The partnerships with The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration with Microsoft and EY, have enabled us to carry out a significant initiative to enhance the skills of each participant. We have been able to make each course more flexible and adapt it to the specific needs of each group of young people we work with, thereby achieving greater reach and impact on the population both in Mexico City and nationwide. We are very proud to be able to collaborate and to know that we are part of the same effort that effectively contributes to increasing job opportunities.” Since its inception, Trust for the Americas, through the POETA DigiSpark Project, has trained 74,838 people aged 16 and older, as well as teachers, in digital, technical, and life skills. It has also facilitated 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 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 aim to promote educational and economic opportunities, as well as government accountability and transparency. Our unique alliance with the OAS gives us access to decision-makers throughout the region. This fundamental partnership serves as the foundation through which we build strong networks in all member states and the private sector. Through the development of our region, Trust continues to help overcome challenges through strategic alliances that foster 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 fostering trust in the capital markets. Through data and technology, EY’s diverse and inclusive teams, located in more than 150 countries, instill confidence through audit and help clients grow, transform, and operate. EY’s multidisciplinary approach across audit, consulting, legal, strategy, tax, and transactions empowers EY teams to ask better questions to find new answers to the complex issues facing our world today. About CELAMEX: Centro Laboral México I.A.P. provides comprehensive care to

January 26, 2023, Buenos Aires, January 25, 2023.- As part of the partnerships developed by The Trust for the Americas to expand the network of digital skills training centers in Argentina, a new POETA program center was inaugurated today at the Hogar de Cristo headquarters in Villa Soldati. The center is coordinated by the “La Vida Como Viene” Workers“ Cooperative and was established thanks to a contribution from the company Klimber Latam and a donation of equipment from Estudio EAF in the City of Buenos Aires. The new training center will benefit the men and women living at the Hogar de Cristo Center who receive training and work there every day. Trust for the Americas works with 1,000 institutions in 26 countries and coordinates 357 digital training centers to provide vulnerable populations in Latin America and the Caribbean with an opportunity to get ahead, find a job, start a microbusiness, or return to formal education. Each year, the POETA program impacts the lives of more than 800,000 people. 56.1% of the beneficiaries are women, many of whom are victims of domestic violence and are the primary breadwinners for their families. A high percentage of the beneficiaries are migrants, people who are overcoming drug addiction or social problems, or who—having been unable to complete a formal education—simply cannot find the economic opportunities that would allow them to support themselves and their families. In this regard, Lara Bersano, Director of Communications, commented: “The Trust for the Americas business model is a ”Social Franchise” model.“ We work through well-known, established institutions in each country in the region. We identify these institutions and provide them with content, training, classes, support, follow-up, performance metrics, and software licenses so they can offer training to their beneficiaries. That is why a key factor in the success of our work is having the support of private companies like Klimber and Estudio EAF, which are essential partners in ensuring these programs reach more people, have the necessary resources to operate, and obtain the equipment needed to deliver the courses. We contacted the worker cooperative through the Office of Institutional Relations of the Government of the City of Buenos Aires, a key partner to whom we are very grateful for helping us identify institutions that carry out essential social work.” Federico López, president of the worker cooperative that coordinates the training center, commented: “The Cooperative opened its first facility, Juan Pablo II, in 2014—an outpatient center where neighborhood residents could find a comprehensive response to their issues with problematic substance use, homelessness, and social exclusion. In 2017, we opened the San Expedito shelter in Villa Soldati, where the new POETA center operates; in this outpatient facility, participants deepen their progress in both the therapeutic and the social-occupational dimensions of the process. This is achieved through workshops focused on vocational training, therapeutic groups, and spaces for social, psychological, and psychiatric support. We consider it extremely valuable to have a computer lab that promotes digital inclusion and the acquisition of digital tools that enable better social integration, as we seek to create dignified and healthy workspaces—places that support, accommodate, provide a sense of belonging, and enhance everyone’s abilities, while also fostering teamwork and community.” Andrea Falcone, director and founder of Estudio EAF, commented: “At Estudio Falcone and Comunidad + 55, we are convinced that strategic partnerships for employability and education are key to transforming the reality of many people. We deeply believe in generational diversity as an agent of change in society. That is why we are always collaborating on innovative projects in which young people and their families can acquire skills and competencies that enable them to enhance their development. We are transforming the present for the silver generation through high-impact initiatives that promote dialogue and action among different actors and sectors of society. Of course, for us, technology is both a tool and a bridge for strengthening intergenerational ties.” Diego Naveira, Chief ESG Officer at Klimber, commented: “These types of initiatives, which provide real opportunities for development to people who otherwise would not have access to them, are only possible through collaboration. We are proud to be part of the collaborative ecosystem made up of private-sector companies, NGOs, and governments that makes #POETA possible. Ensuring access to financial education and digital inclusion is one of the pillars that underpin our mission to bridge gaps. Actions aimed at creating opportunities are fundamental to our sustainability plan.” The member institutions of the Social Franchise that are part of the alliance with Klimber receive from The Trust for the Americas, the benefits of advanced membership, which include, among other things, access to Virtual Classroom content on digital life skills and entrepreneurship, Microsoft licenses for computers, and training to strengthen their institutional capacity (communication, monitoring, and evaluation, among others). — About the “La Vida como Viene” Workers’ Cooperative We are part of the community of the “La Familia Grande Hogar de Cristo” Federation (FGHC), which brings together neighborhood centers dedicated to providing a comprehensive response to situations of social vulnerability and/or problematic use of psychoactive substances, always putting the individual and their qualities first. We are part of the Virgen Inmaculada parish in Villa Soldati. About KLIMBER Klimber is the insurtech company that has been transforming the insurance industry since 2018, with the goal of closing the coverage gap in Latin America. It pioneered the region’s first digital life insurance policy and, since then, has continuously innovated, offering personal accident, health, auto, and assistance products through its end-to-end automated digital infrastructure. Its disruptive model

December 12, 2022, Costa Rica – The Trust for the Americas, in partnership with the Costa Rican national government, local and international organizations, and with financial support from the U.S. Embassy in San José, implemented the project “Innovation and Civic Technologies for Greater Transparency in Government Services,” aimed at strengthening the capacities of municipal governments and public institutions in the post-pandemic recovery.  After two years of implementation, the project fostered collaboration among different sectors of society and established a process to stimulate innovation in public administration and the use of data to improve government services. In this regard, the five proposed components were successfully carried out: Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, commented: “All these efforts are aligned with the standards and best practices recommended by the Inter-American Open Data Program (PIDA) and facilitated the use of emerging technologies to support the Government of Costa Rica in maximizing efficiency, improving relations with citizens, and ensuring transparency in the allocation of resources and services.”   In this regard, the project’s impact was as follows: Furthermore, the implementation of this project will have a long-term impact that will be reflected in effective collaboration between government entities and different sectors of society, as well as in improved quality and coverage of government services during the post-pandemic recovery. Costa Rica

December 6, 2022, Washington, D.C. December 6, 2022. By signing the agreement to join the POETA Social Franchise (Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas), Fundación Terra will join forces with The Trust for the Americas to open four POETA centers in Honduras in 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. As a member organization of the Partnership for Central America (PCA) and in line with its ongoing commitment to promoting economic opportunities to address the root causes of migration in the region’s Northern Triangle, is entering into this partnership with The Trust for the Americas, convinced that the POETA Centers will provide comprehensive and inclusive educational opportunities that foster digital and life skills, with the goal of developing citizens committed to the development of their communities. Pierina Nepote, POETA Program Manager, emphasized that “For The Trust for the Americas, it is an honor to welcome Fundación Terra into our POETA Social Franchise network. The POETA team is very excited to work closely with the great team behind Fundación Terra to empower Hondurans, particularly by promoting skills and tools that are useful for people who want to start and grow their own businesses.” Initially, the centers that will open their facilities for the implementation of the POETA Social Franchise will be located in the Department of Francisco Morazán; the Department of Cortés, and the Department of Choluteca in Honduras, where participants will have access to: The President of Fundación Terra, Architect Fredy Nasser, commented: ”We thank The Trust for the Americas for the trust they have placed in us; and we are confident that this partnership will allow us to continue working to create conditions that facilitate access to connectivity for educational purposes among vulnerable populations lacking technological tools, as well as to strengthen the capabilities, skills, and abilities that will enable them to access employment and achieve economic growth.” 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 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. About Fundación Terra: Fundación Terra is a nongovernmental 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

December 2, 2022 Washington, D.C. November 30, 2022.—The Trust for the Americas kicked off its 25th anniversary year by presenting its Humanitarian Award on November 30 to the founding members of its Board of Directors. The Humanitarian Award honored Enrique Segura, June DeHart, and Susan Benson for founding an institution dedicated to promoting the socioeconomic inclusion of all people and for embodying their belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to excel. The award was presented by Secretary General Luis Almagro Lemes during a ceremony at the Organization of American States headquarters in Washington, D.C.  In his speech, Almagro stated, “The Trust for the Americas is recognizing three exemplary individuals who have contributed in practical and significant ways to improving opportunities for vulnerable and marginalized people and to strengthening the sustainability of democracy in many countries across our hemisphere. I should add that the work has not always been easy. To build a beautiful structure, you have to do a lot of digging, and June, Susan, and Enrique have been there alongside the staff of The Trust and other members of the Board of Directors, shouldering the burdens.  The result of all their hard work is the noble edifice we now call The Trust for the Americas. Millions of people are better off because of the work they began in 1997.” After the awards were presented, Dr. Enrique Segura and Mrs. DeHart, speaking on behalf of herself and Mrs. Benson, described their experiences in founding The Trust for the Americas and the work they spearheaded to promote social and economic inclusion for vulnerable communities in the Americas by mobilizing public and private resources.   Mrs. DeHart mentioned that “it has been an honor and a privilege to be part of the growth and success of The Trust, fostering hope and inclusion for millions of vulnerable and marginalized people in the Americas.  ”Linda Eddleman, CEO, and her very talented and capable team at The Trust are all our heroes.“ Dr. Enrique Segura reaffirmed his commitment to The Trust.  As a well-known philanthropist, he recalled his support for The Trust and his early provision of ”seed capital” and sponsorship of anti-corruption summits. Dr. Enrique Segura is the founder and majority shareholder of the ENSE Group, a group of companies with annual revenues of four billion dollars. Prior to his work at the ENSE Group, Dr. Segura held several diplomatic posts. He is also the Chairman of the Board of the Smithsonian Museum of American History and a member of the Advisory Board of the Smithsonian Institution. June L. DeHart is a partner at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP. Prior to joining the law firm in 1987, she served as a legislative assistant/counsel and as chief counsel for a subcommittee in the U.S. Senate.  A creative problem-solver for her clients, Ms. DeHart specializes in federal legislative and regulatory matters before the U.S. Congress, the Administration, and federal agencies.  She is Vice Chair of the Board for The Trust for the Americas; Vice Chair of the Board for the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES); and a Member of the Board and Chair of the Governance Committee for the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Mrs. Susan Shattuck Benson founded The Trust for the Americas in 1997, drawing on her experience at the Organization of American States in the fields of information systems, library and community development, and the marketing of handicrafts.  Susan set The Trust in motion with programs focused on technology for marginalized populations and on increasing government integrity, which evolved into today’s programs supporting increased access to technology and the internet for marginalized populations, as well as improved governance.  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, seek 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 United States

November 16, 2022, Kingston, Jamaica – November 9 & 10, 2022. At an in-person event held at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), The Trust for the Americas, through its Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program, celebrated the DIA Summit 2022. Under the theme “Global YOUth: youth in the context of the globalized world,” the DIA Summit 2022 aimed to foster meaningful connections and empower youth through networking opportunities and discussions on cutting-edge topics.    Attendees at the event included Linda Eddleman, Chief Executive Officer of The Trust for the Americas; Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program at The Trust; Cheryll Stewart, Acting Managing Director of GEN Jamaica; Dr. Andre Hill, National Literacy Coordinator; Milton Samuda, Chairman of the Institute of Law and Economics (ILE); Dayne Gutzmer, CEO of ILE; and Laura D’abreau from the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) of Trinidad and Tobago.   Additionally, the summit featured the following four panels: At the event, Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust, stated, “Here at The Trust, we have spent a great deal of time thinking about ways to achieve our mission of helping young people in the Caribbean and Latin America build a better future. Through the DIA Program, we provide collaborative spaces and training, and we help young people take their ideas and turn them into businesses. We are thrilled that we began in Jamaica in 2016, and now we operate in seven countries, with approximately 15,000 young people having participated in our program.”   For his part, Dwayne Gutzmer commented: “The Summit is strategically held during Youth Month as we strive to focus on our youth and their development. The Summit gives young people an opportunity, a voice, and a platform to inspire others. We want you [the youth] to be part of the conversations about the pressing issues around us, and we can only do that if we provide opportunities like this so that you can get involved.” Finally, Laura D’Abreau reaffirmed: “DIA has impacted thousands of lives over the past couple of years. Collectively, the initiative will impact millions of lives through The Trust for the Americas, the Organization of American States, and the support of the Citi Foundation. Young people need opportunities like this to broaden their perspectives, encourage them to improve their circumstances, and harness their creativity and talent to create things that benefit society.”  The DIA Summit is an annual event that brings together members of the DIA community and other stakeholders to celebrate the DIA program while offering attendees insightful discussions, training workshops, and featured speakers.  *** About Trust for the Americas:  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 across 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   Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  Twitter:   @Trust4Americas  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.    Belize – Jamaica – Trinidad & Tobago – Dominican Republic

November 14, 2022, Kingston, Jamaica – November 8, 2022. At an in-person event, The Trust for the Americas, together with the Inter-American Development Bank Lab (IDB Lab), celebrated the official launch of the project “Unleashing the Potential of Jamaican Youth through Empowerment & Training,” known as JET.   This project is an initiative designed by The Trust for the Americas through the Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program and implemented with financial support from the NCB Foundation, Microsoft, the Citi Foundation, and the IDB Lab, as well as 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.  JET used artificial intelligence (AI) to identify labor market needs in Jamaica, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and the United States. JET’s training is now tailored to current market opportunities to ensure that participants have the digital skills required to secure good entry-level jobs in Jamaican companies and government agencies.  Participants at the event included Linda Eddleman, Chief Executive Officer of The Trust for the Americas; Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program at The Trust; Sudaney Blair, Operations Associate at the IDB office in Kingston; Nadeen Matthews-Blair, Chief Executive Officer of the NCB Foundation; Colonel Martin Rickman, Chairman of the JET Steering Committee; Imega Breese-McNab, Executive Director of the Private Sector of Jamaica; and Yanique Williams, Senior Director of the Youth and Adolescent Policy Division at the Ministry of Education and Youth.  Mr. Michael Lee-Chin, CEO of Portland Holdings and a member of the Board of Directors of The Trust for the Americas, stated, “The Trust for the Americas has been providing training to Jamaican youth since 2017. As a Board member of The Trust, I have witnessed firsthand the organization’s commitment to our young people’s success. I am delighted that the Trust will continue its good work through its new project, ”Unleashing the Potential of Jamaican Youth through Empowerment & Training.“ A stronger Jamaica is built on the strength of our empowered youth.” At the event, Nadeen Matthews-Blair said, “There is no shortage of brilliance in Jamaica, but what is mostly missing are opportunities. So, at that time, we embarked on this journey to help Jamaicans without access to higher education acquire skills, because our fundamental philosophy is that to build a better Jamaica, you have to build its people. JET is what all of this is about; it is education, with a special focus on skills that are in high demand globally.”  For her part, Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust, commented, “The Trust for the Americas has been operating for the past 25 years, and one of our main goals is to provide young people with skills and access to economic opportunities. All of this has been achieved through alliances, which is why the JET project is an excellent example of partnerships. We have representatives from all sectors committed to helping young people find 1,200 jobs of the future.” Digital technologies continue to spread rapidly. Jamaican employers, therefore, are demanding advanced digital skills from their employees. But many otherwise capable young Jamaicans have yet to have the opportunity to develop those skills. JET is addressing that gap. This project aims to train 1,200 young innovators in Kingston and St. Andrew over the next three years in relevant digital and employability skills and provide 500 of them with three months of relevant work experience. In addition, it will offer entrepreneurship opportunities, business mentorship, seed funding, and networking opportunities to Jamaican youth who successfully complete the program. It is expected that many thriving participants in the program will be able to develop the skills necessary to transition into the future of work, capitalize on freelance opportunities, and apply innovations to create new businesses.    “Unleashing the Potential of Jamaican Youth through Empowerment & Training” is working to fulfill the UN 2030 Agenda development goals listed below: ***    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, 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. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.  More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org   Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  Twitter:   @Trust4Americas  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

October 28, 2022 Bogotá, Colombia – The M&M Formando Líderes Foundation and The Trust for the Americas announced the opening of a new POETA Center in Colombia. This center, part of the POETA Social Franchise, will serve residents of the municipality of Villanueva in the department of Casanare. This partnership reinforces both organizations“ commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. The M&M Foundation joins the 18 active POETA centers already operating in Colombia. These centers offer training in technology, computer science, and entrepreneurship, with the aim of contributing to the personal and professional development of the beneficiary communities by providing tools to secure better job and educational opportunities. Hermes Eduardo Mojica, Director of the M&M Foundation, commented that ”education is one of the most important tools, and we must ensure it is the best possible—this is precisely the goal of the M&M Foundation, which is why we work every day with great energy and passion to achieve it. To achieve all of this, we are forming partnerships with the best institutions in the country and around the world—such as The Trust for the Americas, a partnership that today allows us to open this POETA Center.“ This new collaboration will provide more than 120 people in Colombia with access to training programs each year. Likewise, they will have access to all the services and benefits offered by the POETA Social Franchise to strengthen the capabilities of the M&M Foundation and its team. Pierina Nepote, Senior POETA Program Manager for The Trust for the Americas, emphasized that for The Trust for the Americas, ”it is a pleasure to have partners like the M&M Foundation, who are joining the POETA Social Franchise. At The Trust, we seek to build the capacity of organizations and individuals through a series of online tools, including our two e-learning platforms, as well as dedicated technical assistance from a team ready to work closely with our Local Partners. Through this partnership, we will contribute to the development of leaders, preparing them for today’s jobs by building technical, digital, and life skills.” These centers implement the Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA), which aims to promote the comprehensive development of individuals through technology by providing training in vulnerable communities to facilitate their access to economic and educational opportunities that contribute to their quality of life. The Trust for the Americas donated the software for the computers at this POETA Center to provide access to more than 70 courses through its various educational platforms, as well as to connect this center with the more than 350 POETA Centers in Latin America and the Caribbean. Present at the inauguration were Oswal Fontecha, mayor of Villanueva; Yasbleidi Vargas, president of the community action board of the San Agustín district; Erlinda Diaz Bohorquez, president of the community action board of the Buenos Aires district; Ana Toloza, a teacher at Ezequiel Moreno y Diaz School; as well as parents and young beneficiaries of the M&M Foundation. https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA 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 vital 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. About the M&M Formando Líderes Foundation: The Foundation was born out of a father and mother’s need to provide their daughters with a quality education and protect them from the armed conflict that gripped the municipality of Villanueva, Casanare, during the 2000s. Having experienced firsthand the consequences of violence—such as poverty, drug addiction, and, above all, a lack of education—the Mojica Millán family felt the need to help more children and young people and thus break the cycle of poverty in the region. Although at first they only taught their two daughters at home due to the dangers of going to school in the village where they lived, more children from the area began to join these classes. Today, the foundation not only offers tutoring in English, Mandarin, programming, and the exact sciences, but also provides hope, a home, and food for those in need. Colombia