Press releases

Mexico City, September 29.—The Young Community Builders Center, a local partner in Mexico and the implementing organization for the CIMA Project (Comprehensive Training for Women in Action), presented awards to 44 female graduates. The event was attended by Ambassador Aníbal Quiñónez, representative of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Mexico, and Lara Bersano Calot, Director of Communication and Digital Transformation at The Trust for the Americas, who served as the godmother for this first graduating class. José Ramón Garrido Susacasa, National Executive Director of Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad, noted that “we are facing challenging times, and only through the commitment of people like this team (JCC and CIMA) can we bring about this change.” He also noted that it is thanks to organizations that trust them—such as The Trust for the Americas and the OAS—that they are able to implement projects which enable them to benefit communities through training in life skills and job skills. The CIMA Project was developed with the goal of improving the financial autonomy and overall well-being of women in the country through training in technical, digital, and life skills, This goal was reflected in the testimony of Jazmin García, a 20-year-old woman who shared with us that thanks to these skills, “I am now a new person seeking new paths to become a better person.” In her remarks, Lara Bersano Calot acknowledged the courage of the young graduates, noting that “despite the challenges, they are waiting for a certificate that recognizes their efforts. Because, despite their fears and uncertainty, they decided to take these training courses that will help them open new doors.” This is only the first step; it marks the beginning of a journey. I also want to remind you that you are not alone; there are many people thinking of you, thinking of each and every one of you, and that should be important to you.“ She also invited the graduates to become ambassadors for the project, explaining that through their experiences, they can encourage others to acquire these skills, which will help them secure better economic opportunities. Ambassador Aníbal Quiñonez, the OAS representative in Mexico, emphasized that the beneficiaries now have the foundation to ”build their house“—as a metaphor—as they embark on a new search for opportunities that will allow them to improve their quality of life. ”I know you are not inheriting a perfect world, but it is your responsibility to build a better world to live in. Here, you received the foundation for what you are going to build. I encourage you to continue your education and to remember that, if I want to, I can, and I will get wherever I want to go.” The graduation ceremony featured moving messages from participants in other projects implemented by JCC; thanks to technology, people from different centers in Mexico City, the State of Mexico, and Tijuana were able to come together virtually. The CIMA Project is implemented in Mexico by The Trust for the Americas, in partnership with SERAJ (Youth Services) and JCC (Young Community Builders), with funding from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. Since 2022, CIMA has sought to improve the overall well-being and financial independence of young women between the ages of 16 and 29 through in-person and/or virtual training and mentoring focused on technical, life, digital, and empowerment skills. In this way, CIMA supports the integration of project participants into the labor market within the hospitality industry in Mexico City. 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 serves as 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 Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Hotel entrepreneur Conrad N. Hilton established a foundation bearing his name in 1944 to help people living in poverty and facing disadvantages around the world. Today, the work continues, focusing efforts on ensuring healthy early childhood development and providing employment opportunities for young people, as well as improving access to housing and support services for the homeless, identifying solutions for access to safe water, and supporting the work of Catholic sisters. In addition, once a year, following a selection by an independent international jury, the Foundation awards the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize of $ 2.5 million dollars to an organization that does extraordinary work to reduce human suffering. The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation is one of the largest in the world, with approximately $$ 8.5 billion in assets. To date, the Foundation has awarded grants totaling more than $2,400 million dollars, including $339 million in 2021 alone. Visit www.hiltonfoundation.org for more information. Through its Youth Opportunity program, the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation serves young people between the ages of 15 and 24 who are disconnected from both school and work. The Foundation, in partnership with its allies, provides access to meaningful training pathways—particularly focused on the healthcare and hospitality industries—including comprehensive support and real opportunities for advancement. About Young Community Builders Young Community Builders

Washington, D.C., September 27, 2023 – The Trust for the Americas, through the Program for Economic Opportunities through Technology in the Americas (POETA), is pleased to announce the third edition of Trust Inclusion Week. Under the theme “Artificial Intelligence for All: Unlocking Technology and Knowledge,” this event will bring together experts and technology enthusiasts to explore the impact and potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in empowering teachers, employees, and entrepreneurs through productive and ethical use.  Over the course of four days, participants will have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence, from its application in educational settings to its influence on accessibility and representation. This edition promises to offer a unique perspective on how technology can pave the way toward a more inclusive and equitable region.  Pierina Nepote, Senior Manager of the POETA Program, shares, “It is with great enthusiasm that the POETA Team celebrates the Trust Inclusion Week for the third time. On this occasion, we are thrilled to bring together local POETA partners, experts, and technology enthusiasts to discuss the enormous potential AI has to enhance the work and facilitate the daily lives of students, teachers, employees, and entrepreneurs.”  Under the guidance of Jorge Cella, Director of Microsoft Philanthropies in the Americas, the session “Artificial Intelligence for Productivity” will demonstrate how artificial intelligence can optimize workplace performance.   In addition, Lisseth Falcon from CDI, Chile; Gelber Morán from ParqueSoft, Colombia; and Luis Monreal from UTSC, Mexico—representatives of local implementation partners for the POETA DigiSpark Project—will address the topic “Integrating AI into Content for Education and Employability” through a panel discussion that promises valuable insights into the future of education and employability.  Leonardo Ortiz, Vice President of Development & International Alliances at Code.org, will also participate, leading the session “Artificial Intelligence for Teaching and Learning,” which will explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the work of teachers and the learning experiences of their students.  Andrés Rengifo, Director of Corporate, External, and Legal Affairs at Microsoft, will close Inclusion Week with a session on “Responsible Use of AI and Inclusion,” which will delve into the use of Artificial Intelligence to promote equity and inclusion.   We look forward to your valuable participation in this event, which is sure to be enriching and full of insights. Mexico

Kingston, Jamaica – September 17, 2023 – The Trust for the Americas, through its Democratizing Innovation in the Americas (DIA) Program, celebrated the in-person graduation of the pioneering JET Project cohort, “Pixels of Possibility.” Fourteen young Jamaicans are now ready to enter the workforce after acquiring digital and life skills through the Unleashing the Potential of Jamaican Youth Through Empowerment and Training (JET) program. This event is a resounding testament to the project’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in the face of the digital economy. The JET Project aims to equip young Jamaicans with essential skills while supporting their transition into the digital workforce, freelancing, or entrepreneurial ventures. As of 2022, youth unemployment rates in Jamaica had surged to six times their pre-pandemic levels*. Notably, the JET Project utilized the results of a labor market study generated by Citibeat’s artificial intelligence platform. Web programming and app development emerged as the top digital skills in demand. The training modules challenged students to think differently about engaging with technology. At the event, Milton Drucker, Special Advisor at The Trust for the Americas, said: “… this project is an example of what can happen when we harness private and public sector resources and the goodwill of community leaders. The Trust’s mission is to give people who would otherwise be unable to participate in the digital world a fair chance. Moreover, through the DIA Program, we aim to give young people the tools to innovate, tap into their innate creativity, and develop their own independent businesses.” Likewise, Sudaney Blair, Operations Associate at the IDB, stated: “There is a disconnect between some of the opportunities available in the global market and what our young people can access. And so, in discussions with The Trust for the Americas—focused on understanding the needs of our young people and helping them reach a stage where they would have access to these opportunities—we were very excited to be involved. I urge you today to take advantage of these opportunities… You don’t necessarily have to travel to make an impact—so make that impact.” Finally, in her closing remarks, Bianca Powell, a JET Project graduate, shared: “I saw the JET Project as an opportunity to gain more digital skills. Having the confidence to use these tools and to use them effectively has been life-changing. I just started using Canva (a graphic design platform) within the past three months, and I’ve gone from not being able to use it at all to building a website—that’s crazy to me! We also built an app, and I never in my life imagined I’d be able to do that.” The JET Project’s inaugural graduation marks the beginning of a transformative journey for these 14 young Jamaicans, who have become “Pixels of Possibility” and are now poised to thrive in the digital economy. This milestone underscores the commitment of all partners involved to empower Jamaican youth and build a more resilient labor market for the future. There has been a significant increase in expressions of interest for the second cohort of students. Importantly, the JET Project is also focused on providing pathways for students to put their skills into action—through entrepreneurship, work placements, and freelancing opportunities.   Naketa West, Local Coordinator of the JET Project, said: “The JET Project’s momentum is building, and we’re actively seeking to collaborate with more small and medium-sized enterprises, organizations, and partners that can offer meaningful opportunities to our graduates.” More information is available at es.surveymonkey.com/r/DJ875NN. The project is a collaborative effort implemented by The Trust for the Americas with financial support from the NCB Foundation, Microsoft, the Citi Foundation, and the IDB LAB. The project is also driven by 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. It exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships in driving positive change. * Source: ILO (2022) ***    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 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.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

2023/08/31 Montevideo, Uruguay, 22 de agosto de 2023 – En un movimiento estratégico diseñado para abordar desafíos tecnológicos y sociales en Uruguay, The Trust for the Americas, organización sin fines de lucro afiliada a la Organización de Estados Americanos (OEA), ha anunciado una colaboración con la Agencia Uruguaya de Cooperación Internacional (AUCI). Esta alianza estratégica está centrada en ofrecer capacitación en habilidades digitales y fortalecer las perspectivas de vida de las comunidades vulnerables en el país.  Con el avance constante de la tecnología y la creciente importancia de la economía digital, la necesidad de habilidades digitales se ha convertido en un imperativo para muchos uruguayos. Esta colaboración traerá consigo herramientas esenciales para que las comunidades de Uruguay no solo se mantengan al día, sino que prosperen en un panorama tecnológicamente avanzado.  Más allá de la capacitación técnica, esta alianza se constituye como una fuerza motriz para la inclusión social. Está diseñada para promover la inclusión y resaltar el talento humano de grupos que históricamente han sido desplazados. incluyendo mujeres, personas LGBTIQ+, individuos con discapacidad y comunidades indígenas.  Alexander Figueroa, Chief Operating Officer en The Trust for the Americas, expresó su entusiasmo por la alianza: “Hoy, más que nunca, vemos la necesidad de capacitar y empoderar a las comunidades en habilidades digitales. Esta alianza nos brinda una plataforma inigualable para hacerlo, y estamos ansiosos por trabajar codo a codo con AUCI para enriquecer la vida de los uruguayos.”  Por su parte, Rodrigo Ferrés, Presidente de AUCI, subrayó que la cooperación internacional es un instrumento para la implementación y desarrollo de políticas públicas. Manifestó que la firma del acuerdo con The Trust es muy significativo para nuestro país porque tiene la peculiaridad de atribuirle una gran importancia a las nuevas tecnologías y a la innovación.   En ese contexto hizo referencia al programa POETA, que trata de sistemas vinculados a las nuevas tecnologías, herramientas muy demandadas en la educación actual. “Para las nuevas generaciones el poder tener o contar con instrumentos de la globalización tecnológica o el desarrollo de software o de conectividad es relevante”.  Claudia Barrientos, representante de la OEA en Uruguay, estuvo presente durante el evento y destacó la vitalidad de estas colaboraciones. Señaló: “que siempre que se menciona este programa genera gran interés, tiene mucho potencial para mejorar las habilidades digitales de los uruguayos”.  En esta primera etapa, se espera capacitar a un amplio espectro de personas a nivel nacional, con acceso a más de 70 cursos de Academia Trust, todos diseñados con contenidos actualizados y de alta relevancia para el sector digital.  Para mayor información entra en:  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 29 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno. Nuestra alianza única con la OEA nos permite tener acceso a los tomadores de decisiones dentro de la región. Esta asociación fundamental es la base a través de la cual creamos redes sólidas en todos los estados miembros y el sector privado. A través del desarrollo de nuestra región, The Trust continúa contribuyendo a superar los desafíos a través de alianzas estratégicas que promueven la cooperación para resultados sostenibles.  Sobre la Organización de Estados Americanos:  La Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA) es el principal organismo regional para la promoción y defensa de la democracia, los derechos humanos, la seguridad y el desarrollo en las Américas. Fundada en 1948, reúne a los 35 países independientes de las Américas y constituye el principal foro gubernamental político, jurídico y social del Hemisferio. A través de su trabajo, la OEA busca prevenir conflictos, fomentar la paz, abordar los desafíos socioeconómicos y promover valores comunes.  Sobre la Agencia Uruguaya de Cooperación Internacional (AUCI)  fue creada en diciembre de 2010. Funciona en la órbita de la Presidencia de la República y cuenta con un Consejo Directivo y un Director Ejecutivo designado por el Presidente de la República.  Entre los cometidos de AUCI están la planificación, diseño, supervisión, administración, coordinación, ejecución, evaluación, seguimiento y difusión de actividades, proyectos y programas de cooperación internacional, recibida y otorgada por Uruguay, para dar cumplimiento a las prioridades nacionales de desarrollo del país.  Uruguay

August 21, 2023, La Vega, Dominican Republic – August 18, 2023. The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration 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. On this occasion, a total of 10 projects were presented to a multidisciplinary jury, which evaluated criteria such as the business model, social and environmental impact, economic viability, and degree of innovation. The most outstanding projects were awarded USD 1,000 in seed funding to strengthen their structures and catalyze their impact.  In his opening remarks, Rafael Lorenzo, president of ADASEC, said: “With gratitude to The Trust for The Americas and the Citi Foundation, the DIA Labs, in collaboration with ADASEC, held the third Innovative Projects Pitch Competition. Young people from diverse fields presented impactful projects to address local challenges. Their brilliant presentations highlight the potential of our youth. We continue to promote the DIA Innovation Labs to forge a better future for our young people.”  Likewise, Allen Feliz, Coordinator of the DIA Lab RD Project at ADASEC, emphasized: “At DIA Lab RD, we recognize the vital importance of equipping Dominican youth with practical knowledge in technology, sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship. We are committed to supporting and guiding them in realizing their aspirations, so they can become agents of change.”  The young people participated in groups or individually, having previously developed and refined their entrepreneurial proposals during the “Virtual Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ideathon,” held from July 10 to 24. Of the projects submitted, the following seven were selected as winners: Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager of the DIA Program, concluded: “In this competition, we celebrate the dedication and potential of Dominican youth to tackle challenges through innovation. We thank our partners and the young people for placing their trust in us. Let’s continue investing in youth and building a more equitable future.” The DIA Labs in the Dominican Republic are part of a unique ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. These labs provide an environment conducive to the growth of young people from the communities of Baní, La Vega, and Bonao. Through access to technology, collaborative spaces, training, and funding opportunities via seed funds, young people receive the tools they need to bring their business ideas to life or catalyze social projects aimed at addressing local challenges.  *** 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.  The Trust for the Americas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.   Facebook: The Trust for the Americas Twitter: @Trust4Americas Dominican Republic

2023/08/17 Ciudad Asunción, Paraguay 8 de agosto de 2023. The Trust for the Americas, organización sin fines de lucro que impulsa el desarrollo sostenible en la región, se complace en anunciar una significativa alianza con la Cámara Paraguaya de Comercio Electrónico (CAPACE). Esta colaboración tiene como objetivo ampliar la red de centros de capacitación en habilidades digitales en América Latina, y para ello, sumarán 11 Centros POETA en el territorio paraguayo. El Programa de Oportunidades Económicas a través de la Tecnología en las Américas (POETA) de The Trust for the Americas, celebra la unión de Paraguay a la red de trabajo de su Franquicia Social. La alianza entre The Trust for the Americas y CAPACE impulsará el acceso a oportunidades digitales y el desarrollo de habilidades tecnológicas a múltiples participantes de diferentes sectores del país. En particular, la iniciativa beneficiará a jóvenes y a las Micro, Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas (Mipymes), proporcionándoles herramientas y recursos para fortalecer sus operaciones y aumentar su presencia en el mundo digital, impulsando así el crecimiento del sector del comercio electrónico en Paraguay. En este sentido, Pierina Nepote, Gerente Senior del Programa POETA, comentó que “el trabajo en estos centros tecnológicos de capacitación se enfocará en dos grupos clave: personas jóvenes y personas emprendedoras. Para los jóvenes, se les facilitarán nuevas habilidades digitales, abriendo así mejores oportunidades de empleo y favoreciendo su desarrollo profesional en un entorno altamente competitivo. Por otro lado, los emprendedores también serán parte fundamental del programa, ya que se busca apoyarlos en la digitalización y formalización de sus emprendimientos. Esto no solo les permitirá salir de la informalidad, sino también ampliar sus mercados para con ello aumentar sus ventas”. En esta etapa inicial, se tiene previsto capacitar a 100 personas a nivel nacional. Los participantes tendrán acceso a una amplia oferta educativa de más de 70 cursos disponibles en Academia Trust, con contenidos actualizados y relevantes para el ámbito digital. Por su parte, Gustavo Giménez, Presidente y Director Ejecutivo de CAPACE, señaló “el lanzamiento de esta alianza con Trust representa un hito sumamente importante para nuestra cámara y principalmente para el país, debido a que uno de nuestros objetivos como cámara es el desarrollo del ecosistema digital, y sin capacitación esto no sería posible. A través de nuestro acuerdo de cooperación con el MIC (Ministerio de Industria y Comercio) y al acompañamiento de la Dirección Nacional de Emprendedurismo, implementaremos este ambicioso proyecto en los 11 CAE (Centro de Apoyo al Emprendedor) que se encuentran en diferentes ciudades de nuestro país. Será realmente un hito y quizás un punto de inflexión en materia de preparación de nuestras Mipymes y principalmente de nuestros jóvenes para este nuevo mundo conectado del que Paraguay ya forma parte. Agradezco en nombre de la CAPACE a Trust y a la OEA por el privilegio de poder trabajar juntos en este proyecto”. The Trust for the Americas y CAPACE trabajarán en conjunto para promover un futuro digital inclusivo en América Latina, impulsando el desarrollo de habilidades digitales, la adopción de tecnología y la transformación de la sociedad hacia un enfoque más sostenible y competitivo en la era digital. Para mayor información entra en: Visite:  https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA 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 29 países y ha trabajado con más de 1,000 organizaciones en la región. Nuestras iniciativas buscan promover oportunidades educativas y económicas, así como la responsabilidad y transparencia del gobierno. Nuestra alianza única con la OEA nos permite tener acceso a los tomadores de decisiones dentro de la región. Esta asociación fundamental es la base a través de la cual creamos redes sólidas en todos los estados miembros y el sector privado. A través del desarrollo de nuestra región, The Trust continúa contribuyendo a superar los desafíos a través de alianzas estratégicas que promueven la cooperación para resultados sostenibles. Sobre Franquicia Social POETA: La Franquicia Social POETA (FSP), nace del programa bandera de The Trust for the Americas Programa de Oportunidades Económicas a través de la Tecnología en las Américas (POETA) con el fin de replicar y expandir este Modelo de prácticas exitosas y de gran impacto social, de una manera estandarizada para que un número mayor de organizaciones pueda ofrecer a sus participantes: recursos, servicios y beneficios de alta calidad en las Américas Sobre la Cámara Paraguaya de Comercio Electrónico (CAPACE): La Cámara Paraguaya de Comercio Electrónico (CAPACE) reúne a más de 130 empresas y emprendedores de diferentes sectores de la economía, generando oportunidades para el mercado local e internacional a través de internet. Tiene como objetivo, lograr que los negocios a través del comercio electrónico, se afiancen como una nueva forma de interacción entre individuos y empresas, constituyéndose en una eficaz herramienta para el desarrollo social y económico del Paraguay y sus economías regionales. Este grupo nació debido a la necesidad de difundir el comercio electrónico en Paraguay, darle un marco legal, brindar capacitación sobre comercio electrónico y así, ayudar a empresarios a dar el salto a esta nueva era basada en la tecnología. La cámara trabaja activamente con el Gobierno, con cámaras de toda América Latina y organismos multilaterales sobre estos objetivos y sigue creciendo en miembros e influencia en la economía nacional. Paraguay

2023/07/11 July 11, 2023 – San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration with AES Puerto Rico, has kicked off the free training sessions for the “Empowering Innovative Entrepreneurship” Project. Through this initiative, approximately 120 individuals are expected to create and strengthen their entrepreneurial ventures aimed at local development in the municipalities of Guayama, Salinas, Humacao, and neighboring areas. The fourth edition of the project aims to benefit participants with training in digital tools, business strategies, managerial skills, and administrative expertise, along with personalized guidance for budding entrepreneurs. “We are excited to launch the fourth edition of this initiative. When we look back at the success stories of individuals who underwent training in previous years and now share their thriving business models and how they have served as channels to replicate what they learned, we see the fruits of our efforts benefiting our communities. At AES Puerto Rico, we have decided to continue strengthening this entrepreneurship project by expanding to nearby municipalities and other locations on the island,” expressed Jesús Bolinaga, President of AES Puerto Rico. In addition to the training, the most outstanding ventures in terms of viability and sustainability will be selected to receive economic incentives, and other ventures will have the opportunity to receive specialized business acceleration guidance. The project’s advisor will support the entrepreneurs in accelerating their businesses by analyzing their strengths and weaknesses and aligning them with current market opportunities. This time, both institutions are delighted to have the Interamerican University Guayama Campus join the Empowering Innovative Entrepreneurship Project in 2023. The university will provide facilities for training and host the Business Fair of the Project in August. Additionally, participants can benefit from the InterEmprende Program to further strengthen their projects. Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas, celebrated this new phase of the project, stating, “Since 2018, we have been working with AES Corporation to support individuals who want to improve their living conditions. Through continuous education, participants acquire the skills to strengthen their entrepreneurial ventures. We are very pleased with the achievements over the years, and we know that together with AES, we will continue to enhance living conditions in communities, expanding rights and improving inclusion in our hemisphere.” Since its inception in 2018, the collaboration between AES Puerto Rico, The Trust for the Americas, and Acción Social has benefited over 200 entrepreneurs. Many have successfully strengthened their businesses through training and economic incentives, as well as receiving specialized mentoring. This new edition of the “Empowering Innovative Entrepreneurship” Project is undoubtedly great news for Puerto Rican entrepreneurs seeking to expand and improve their businesses. — 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 29 countries and collaborated with over 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 grants us access to decision-makers within the region. This essential partnership serves as the foundation through which we build strong networks in all member states and the private sector. Through our region’s development, The Trust continues to contribute to overcoming challenges through strategic alliances that foster cooperation for sustainable results. www.trustfortheamericas.org About AES Puerto Rico:AES-PR produces approximately 25% of Puerto Rico’s electricity. AES-PR generates the lowest-cost energy on the island, saving the government and people of Puerto Rico about $2 billion. The company’s operations provide 110 direct and 600 indirect jobs on the island, offering significant employment opportunities for the people of Puerto Rico. AESPR is a subsidiary of AES Corporation (NYSE:AES), a Fortune 500 global energy company that operates a diversified portfolio of 30,000 MW, including over 13,000 MW in solar and wind projects in operation, under construction, or with signed contracts. The company has diversified Puerto Rico’s energy production through AES Ilumina, a 24 MW solar park. About the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, Guayama Campus:The Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, Guayama Campus, is a private, nonprofit institution with deep Christian roots. For 67 years, it has been dedicated to preparing students in various fields of knowledge, including humanities, social sciences, and sciences in the southeastern area of Puerto Rico. At the Guayama Campus, students can choose from a variety of academic programs, including technical certificates, associate degrees in Forensic Informatics, Video Games, and Mobile Applications; bachelor’s degrees in Veterinary Technology and Agronomy Sciences. Additionally, it offers a unique master’s program in Digital Marketing and E-commerce. Students have the option to study in-person or entirely online. Inter Guayama fosters the dreams of each person who comes with the desire to achieve an academic goal. Puerto Rico

São Paulo, Brasil – Con la misión de impulsar acciones educativas que permitan incitar la empleabilidad y transformación de la vida de las poblaciones en situación de vulnerabilidad de Brasil, The Trust for the Americas establece una colaboración estratégica con EY y Microsoft. Esta alianza pretende empoderar a las personas mediante la capacitación en habilidades sociales, digitales y técnicas, aumentando su competitividad en el mercado laboral y abriendo la puerta a nuevas oportunidades económicas, especialmente para aquellos que buscan su primer empleo. The Trust for the Americas, una organización internacional con un impacto significativo en las Américas, promueve sinergias entre los sectores público y privado, buscando generar un cambio positivo en la vida de millones de personas. En 2022, EY tomó la iniciativa y se unió al proyecto POETA DigiSpark para impartir los cursos Future Skills Workshops, una plataforma para ayudar a las personas beneficiarias a adquirir las habilidades necesarias para la empleabilidad en el mundo actual. En el marco de esta alianza, 30 jóvenes entre 18 y 25 años del Instituto Tecnológico Inovação (Centro POETA ITI), socio local implementador del Proyecto POETA DigiSpark en Brasil, acudieron a las instalaciones de EY en São Paulo para atender a los cursos Sostenibilidad Ambiental y Tecnologías Emergentes impartidos por empleados voluntarios de EY y Microsoft. Dichos contenidos forman parte de la iniciativa Future Skills Workshops de EY los cuales han sido replicados de manera internacional a través de The Trust. Durante el evento, los beneficiarios recorrieron las oficinas corporativas de EY, lo cual fue una oportunidad para ellos de empaparse del mundo del trabajo y las dinámicas del trabajo presencial en oficinas. De igual forma, se contó con la presencia de voluntarios de Microsoft en las personas de Irio Bertolini, Partner Development Director y André Teixeira Gonçalves, Partner Technical Architect, además de la participación de Daniel Ryan Zilenovski de Microsoft Filantropía. Fátima Galeazzo, Coordinadora Nacional Brasil compartió que “El evento fue un hito importante en nuestra alianza, pero especialmente en la vida de los jóvenes participantes. La oportunidad de combinar el aprendizaje de habilidades relevantes proporcionado por los cursos EY Future Skills Workshops, junto con la participación activa de los voluntarios que generosamente compartieron sus conocimientos y experiencia práctica, resultó en una experiencia emocionante para todos. Fue un momento enriquecedor en el que los jóvenes experimentaron una transformación personal y profesional significativa, adquiriendo confianza y habilidades técnicas y socioemocionales esenciales para promover cambios positivos en sus vidas y enfrentar los desafíos del mundo laboral”. En este sentido, “es muy importante para EY tener un papel tan significativo en una iniciativa como esta, que refuerza nuestro compromiso con el desarrollo, la educación y el empoderamiento de los jóvenes que formarán parte del mercado laboral en un futuro cercano a través de la tecnología. Sin mencionar la alianza con Microsoft y The Trust en esta iniciativa, lo cual agrega aún más valor a la causa”, comenta Luiza Ferraz, Gerente de Responsabilidad Corporativa de EY Brasil. Cabe resaltar que Microsoft y The Trust han sido aliados por más de 19 años en favor de empoderar a comunidades en situación de vulnerabilidad en las Américas a través del acceso, uso y apropiación de la tecnología. Financiado por Microsoft Filantropía, el proyecto POETA DigiSpark continúa encabezando la Iniciativa Global Skilling de Microsoft en América Latina y el Caribe. Esto es gracias al acceso a capacitación y mentoría a las personas más afectadas por la reciente pérdida de empleos o que se encuentren en riesgo de ser reemplazadas por procesos de automatización.  Microsoft ha sido un pilar crucial en el desarrollo del proyecto POETA DigiSpark de The Trust for the Americas. Según Lucia Rodrigues, líder de Filantropía de Microsoft Brasil, es fundamental que los jóvenes tengan conocimiento y aprendan a manejar las nuevas tecnologías. “Solo de esta manera estarán preparados para cumplir con las demandas del mercado laboral actual y futuro. Nuestra larga alianza con The Trust ha sido de gran importancia para poder contribuir a ofrecer a estos jóvenes cursos de capacitación y aumentar sus oportunidades de empleo, fomentando el aprendizaje de las habilidades más necesarias para el éxito en la economía digital”, comenta. Desde su concepción en 2013, The Trust for the Americas mediante el proyecto POETA DigiSpark ha logrado un impacto tangible, capacitando directamente a casi 75,000 personas de 16 años en adelante y a docentes en habilidades digitales, técnicas y para la vida en toda América Latina y el Caribe. Para mayor información visite:  https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/programs/POETA/poeta-digispark 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. Sobre EY: EY existe para construir un mejor mundo de negocios, ayudando a crear valor a largo plazo para sus clientes, su gente y la sociedad en general, así como también para construir confianza en los mercados de capitales. Por medio de datos y tecnología, los equipos diversos e incluyentes de EY, ubicados en más de 150 países, brindan confianza a través de la auditoría y ayudan a los clientes a crecer, transformarse y operar. El enfoque multidisciplinario en auditoría, consultoría, legal, estrategia, impuestos y transacciones, busca que los equipos de EY puedan hacer mejores preguntas para encontrar nuevas respuestas a los asuntos complejos que actualmente enfrenta nuestro mundo. Sobre Instituto Tecnológico Inovação: El Instituto Tecnológico Inovação es una organización con fines no lucrativos que promueve la investigación y el

2023/06/29 8th of May 2023, Belize City, Belize  – The Trust for the Americas, in collaboration with the Caribbean School of Data (CSOD) is pleased to launch a digital literacy initiative at the Kolbe Foundation, Belize Central Prison. This initiative, facilitated through its DIA Innovation Lab for Youth Belize (DIA Lab Belize), aims to equip young inmates with essential digital skills of the 21st century to enhance their employability upon release and empower them to secure a stable future. Supported by the U.S. Embassy through a CARSI-ESF grant, this project represents a significant step towards creating opportunities for marginalized youth.  The CSOD Digital Foundations and Data Fundamentals program is a 12-week initiative comprising of four courses and 16 modules covering a wide range of topics. These include professional typing, digital communication, cyberspace security, data literacy, online marketing, and website building. Through March to June 2023, the program provided 15 young inmates with 60 hours of training.   Rodrigo Iriani, DIA Senior Program Manager, said: “These training sessions are crucial as they bridge the digital gap experienced by marginalized youths and provide them with essential skills required to thrive in a connected world and secure employment.” Additionally, one participant shared: “Now that the world has transformed technologically, I feel privileged to attend the program, so I can have access to information and the ability to cope with society and everyday life.”   Upon completion, participants received a certificate from The Trust for the Americas and the Mona School of Business and Management. Furthermore, six inmates were selected to undergo training by CSOD to prepare them to become instructors for the next cohort. The digital literacy initiative assesses students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, allowing them to apply their newly acquired digital skills to any given scenario.   Patrick Robateau, a trained facilitator, shared: “I have been in prison 21 years now and didn’t know anything about the internet or its usage and value. I’m being educated on digital literacy, which opens a new world to me in using technology and how it applies to everyday life.”    The digital literacy program at the Kolbe Foundation Belize Central Prison owes its inception to the vision and initiative of Mr. William Dawson, former chairman of the Leadership Intervention Unit (LIU), who dedicated his efforts to mentoring and rehabilitating juvenile detainees. His legacy will continue through the initiative’s positive impact on the lives of these young inmates.   CEO Murillo of the Kolbe Foundation explained: ”Being incarcerated and still having the opportunity to participate in a training course like this, using modern-day computer technology, is truly a morale booster and gives them hope for when they are released.” It is a testament to the power of individuals to make a positive difference in their communities and the lives of those who need it most.    The DIA Innovation Lab for Youth Belize aims to build a network of youth agents of change by providing access to training, technology, mentorship, and best practices from the region. The partners involved in this initiative eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on the lives of young inmates at the Kolbe Foundation Belize Central Prison and their communities.   ***  About The Trust for the Americas:  The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities as well as to foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.   Facebook: The Trust for the Americas  | Twitter:   @Trust4Americas  About the Caribbean School of Data (CSOD):  The CSOD is an initiative of the Mona School of Business & Management (MSBM), premier business school in the Caribbean, that seeks to develop a comprehensive and sustainable “digital/data literacy” program aimed at underserved populations within the Caribbean, with the goal of building a stronger data culture across the region and creating essential employment skills for the emerging digital economy.  Website: https://coi-csod.org/   About Kolbe Foundation, Belize Central Prison:​​   The Kolbe Foundation is a non-government and non-profit organization established in 2002 by concerned Rotarians. The foundation manages the Belize Central Prison and employs over 200 security officers and 40 civilians. The Kolbe Team is committed to maintaining high levels of security and reducing escape rates through continuous training programs for security officers. The organization’s Board of Directors oversees its mission of active inmate rehabilitation, which includes education, spiritual, physical, vocational, and rehabilitation programs. The foundation’s vision is to be a positive catalyst for change by rehabilitating offenders and reintegrating them into society as law-abiding and productive citizens.  Belize

2023/06/29 Belmopan, Belize – May 31, 2023 – After two years of implementation, the DIA Innovation Lab for Youth Belize (DIA Lab Belize) marked the successful completion of the first phase of the program. Key stakeholders gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of this groundbreaking initiative which aims to create a network of youth agents of change in Belize. The Trust for the Americas‘ project is supported financially by the U.S. Embassy Belize through the Central American Regional Security Initiative – Economic Support Fund (CARSI-ESF) and is implemented in collaboration with the University of West Indies (UWI) Open Campus.  Celebrating the 81 youth trained, 182 people sensitized, and the 34 participants who developed innovative projects and received seed funding to kick-start their ventures, Rodrigo Iriani, DIA Senior Program Manager, and Audrey Robin, DIA Lab Belize Project Coordinator, were joined by our stakeholders to share experiences and exchange best practices.  Esteemed representatives from the U.S. Embassy, UWI, the Department of Youth Services, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, the Organization of American States (OAS), the Kolbe Foundation Central Prison, Humana People to People, Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), and Beltraide also attended the ceremony..  The DIA Lab Belize provided participants with cutting-edge technology, including computers, camera equipment, 3D printers, and tablets, empowering young beneficiaries with invaluable resources. Participants underwent 40 hours of training in fundamental courses such as digital literacy, canvas business model, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and other specialized courses. After the training, beneficiaries could showcase their ventures in the Pitch Tank Competition, participating with the hope of receiving seed funding.   Rodrigo Iriani, DIA Senior Program Manager, said: “We have been doing this project since 2015, where we opened an Innovation Lab in Monterrey, Mexico, and then we expanded to other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, including Colombia, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, the Dominican Republic, and last year we started here in Belize. So, we are bringing here the best practices and successes from the Innovation Labs in the Caribbean and those opportunities that the youth value the most.”  In addition to the in-person initiatives, the project offered a range of online modality activities to strengthen the curricula and broaden its impact. For instance, the “Hack 4 Change Regional Hackathon” allowed participants from various DIA Labs across the region to pitch tech-driven solutions in a 48-hour challenge to secure funding for their projects.  During the event, Christine Valerio, Grant Officer Representative of the U.S. Embassy, explained: “The idea of the Regional Hackathon was to identify solutions through the use of data based on the challenges that might be faced in their different communities.” Also, Tadeo Bennett, a Hackathon participant, expressed: “I feel like having young people more interest in ICT and software development is very important because as we move forward, everything is becoming digital.”  The DIA Lab also fostered collaborations with other organizations, such as Humana People to People to develop and facilitate a workshop on anti-corruption and transparency for representatives from local governments, civil society, and citizens. Additionally, online training on GovTech practices introduced government representatives to concepts aimed at leveraging technology in the public sector and driving innovation.  The Trust for The Americas, through the DIA Lab Belize project, aimed to foster multi-stakeholder collaboration, facilitating a long-term process to promote innovation, improve local government services, and equip young people with the skills necessary to participate in the economy of the future. “The DIA Lab has allowed me to grow in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Entrepreneurship starts by developing the entrepreneur. Thank you for sharpening my skills, altering my perspective, and brightening my future.” stated a Lab beneficiary.  ***    About The Trust for the Americas:     The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities as well as to foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.     More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org      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