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Citi and The Trust for the Americas are organizing a regional event to promote youth employability in Panama and the Dominican Republic

This initiative is part of the Creating Youth Prosperity Initiative, which will benefit more than 700 young people in Costa Rica, Panama, and the Dominican Republic, and demonstrates how inter-American cooperation can translate into concrete opportunities for youth. Panama, June 25, 2026. During the week that Panama is hosting delegations from across the hemisphere for the General Assembly of the Organization of American States, Citi and The Trust for the Americas carried out volunteer activities in Panama and the Dominican Republic aimed at improving educational spaces and expanding opportunities for vulnerable youth. The initiative reflected the kind of partnerships promoted by the inter-American system, bringing together institutions, the private sector, local organizations, and educational communities to address shared challenges such as youth employability, digital inclusion, and preparation for the future of work. In Panama, the activity took place at the Dr. Octavio Méndez Pereira Educational Center, with the participation of volunteers from Citi, The Trust for the Americas, Fundación Emprendamos, teachers, students, and members of the educational community. Also in attendance was Ambassador Ana Irene Delgado, Panama’s Permanent Representative to the OAS, whose participation underscored the link between inter-American cooperation, the private sector, and the educational communities of the host country of the General Assembly. Malcolm Muñoz, Executive Director of Citi Panama, and Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas—an OAS-affiliated organization—led the event. Together with the volunteers, they helped restore the school library by cleaning, painting the walls, and creating an educational mural inspired by innovation, perseverance, reading, and the students“ goals. The library is a place where young people study, read, talk, and imagine their future. The project aims to improve a central space for school life. Restoring it also sends a visible message to the educational community about the value of investing in the spaces where learning takes place. ”Today we saw what cooperation means when it comes to a school and turns into concrete work alongside the community,“ said Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas. ”Every painted wall, every organized book, and every young person who enters this space reminds us that opportunities are not built from afar. They are built by listening to communities and working with them.“ Ambassador Delgado’s presence gave the event special significance during a week of great hemispheric importance for Panama. Her participation reinforced the message that the inter-American agenda is also expressed through local, visible, and concrete actions that open up opportunities for young people. Malcolm Muñoz, Executive Director of Citi Panama, noted that the event reflects Citi’s commitment to volunteerism and economic inclusion. ”Citi’s Global Community Day is an opportunity to serve, but also to listen,“ said Muñoz. ”When our volunteers work alongside teachers, young people, families, and local partners, we see firsthand the impact that a well-built partnership can have. This library stands as a symbol of what we want for Panama’s youth. More tools, more confidence, and more opportunities to get ahead.“ In the Dominican Republic, the event took place at the Ave María Polytechnic, where more than 100 volunteers from Citi and ITIERD—a local partner of The Trust for the Americas—participated. The teams worked alongside young people from the program to paint the school’s facade, create a school garden, and set up a recycling and art workshop. Rocío Velarde, Executive Director of Citi Dominican Republic, attended the event in Santo Domingo and highlighted the value of creating support networks for young people. ”This day is a powerful demonstration of Citi’s unwavering commitment to the development of the communities where we operate. Through collaboration and volunteerism, we are investing in the future of our youth, strengthening their skills, and building sustainable progress that benefits everyone,” she said. The Creating Youth Prosperity Initiative, supported by the Citi Foundation, addresses the need to prepare young people for a changing job market, where digital skills, financial literacy, adaptability, and exposure to the private sector are increasingly important. Both events took place as part of Citi Global Community Day, a global volunteer initiative by Citi that mobilizes employees in multiple countries to support their communities. In Panama and the Dominican Republic, the event brought together the private sector, civil society organizations, educational communities, and partners within the inter-American system around a common goal: to expand real opportunities for young people in the region. About The Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization that promotes social and economic inclusion by equipping people with the key skills they need to thrive in the new world of work. As an affiliate of the Organization of American States (OAS), The Trust establishes strategic partnerships with the public, private, academic, and civil society sectors to expand opportunities throughout the region. With nearly 30 years of experience, it has impacted more than 6.3 million people in 29 countries, driving the development of economic opportunities and fostering innovation as a driver of progress in the Americas.

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The Trust for the Americas and CREAD are promoting access to artificial intelligence tools to strengthen education in Peru

Lima, Peru — June 4, 2026 — With the goal of strengthening teaching and learning processes through technological innovation, The Trust for the Americas and CREAD announced a strategic partnership as part of the DigiSpark Project, an initiative aimed at democratizing access to and use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in Latin America and the Caribbean, supported by Microsoft. Through this collaboration, CREAD will implement the DigiSpark Project’s educational toolkit, a set of practical resources designed to introduce teachers, students, and educational communities to the responsible, ethical, and productive use of artificial intelligence in learning contexts. The partnership seeks to help strengthen digital capabilities in Peru by promoting new teaching methodologies supported by accessible technological tools adapted to the current needs of the educational environment. It will also expand access to AI training content, enabling more people to develop key skills for the present and future of work. “At The Trust for the Americas, we believe that artificial intelligence should be an accessible tool for everyone, especially in the educational sphere. This partnership with CREAD represents an opportunity to bring innovative resources to teachers and students, strengthening digital skills and promoting the responsible use of technology to create greater opportunities for development in Peru,” said Lourdes Serrano, Regional Program Manager at The Trust for the Americas. CREAD is a Peruvian organization focused on driving educational transformation through innovation, technology, and capacity building. Since its inception, the organization has worked to connect education, creativity, and digital tools that prepare new generations to face the challenges of the 21st century. Although it is a young organization, having been in operation for just one year, CREAD has established itself as an emerging player in Peru’s educational ecosystem, promoting initiatives aimed at developing digital skills and strategically leveraging new technologies to improve educational quality and expand learning opportunities. “At CREAD, we believe in developing high-quality digital learning programs for Peru’s educational communities. This partnership with The Trust for the Americas, supported by Microsoft, aligns perfectly with our mission. Today, we have a robust and accessible resource for anyone who wants to learn about the use of artificial intelligence. Time is limited, and opportunities won’t wait: this could be the content that makes a difference in your learning, and we’ll make sure it reaches you,” said Felipe Robinet, Chair of the Board of Directors, CREAD DigiSpark, an initiative led by The Trust for the Americas and funded by Microsoft, seeks to bridge digital divides through training programs, innovative tools, and strategic partnerships that promote technological inclusion and the development of skills for the digital economy in the region. Through this partnership, The Trust for the Americas and CREAD reaffirm their commitment to education, innovation, and creating opportunities that enable more people to harness the potential of artificial intelligence in a responsible and transformative way. About The Trust for the Americas The Trust for the Americas is an organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS) that promotes opportunities for economic, social, and digital inclusion in Latin America and the Caribbean through strategic partnerships, innovation, and training programs. About CREAD CREAD is a Peruvian organization dedicated to driving educational innovation and strengthening digital capabilities through the strategic use of technology and emerging tools. Its work seeks to contribute to a more inclusive, modern education system that is prepared for the challenges of the future.

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The Trust for the Americas Announces New Board Leadership to Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships Across the Hemisphere

Founding leaders June DeHart, Esq., and Dr. Enrique Segura are taking on greater leadership roles on the Board as The Trust enters a new phase of regional impact, institutional visibility, and strategic growth. WASHINGTON, D.C., June 1, 2026. In Colombia, at the end of a Trust entrepreneurship program, a woman named Diana said: “I am no longer an entrepreneur. I am a businesswoman.” In Trinidad and Tobago, young innovators developed digital tools to address challenges in their own communities. One of them, Kwasi, reflected: “I was very passionate and deeply connected to my project. Being able to secure seed funding, after many mentoring sessions, was instrumental in helping me continue my venture.” In Argentina, María Gabriela, who participated in our digital and life skills initiatives, took what she learned and shared it with women with disabilities: “Everything I learned, I brought back to my workplace. Today, more than 60 people are moving forward with me.” For nearly three decades, across the Americas, these are the kinds of moments that have defined The Trust for the Americas, a private-sector-led affiliate of the Organization of American States (OAS) that connects governments, communities, and the private sector to create opportunity where it is needed most. This month, The Trust announced a new chapter in that mission through a leadership transition on its Board of Directors. June Langston DeHart, Esq., will serve as Chair of the Board. A partner at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, Ms. DeHart focuses on federal legislative and regulatory matters and has extensive experience in the international, healthcare, energy, and infrastructure sectors at the law and consulting firm, which has offices throughout the United States. She previously served as Vice Chair of the Board. Dr. Enrique Segura, CEO of ENSE Group, returns to the Board as Vice Chairperson. ENSE Group is a holding company headquartered in Washington, D.C., with annual revenues of $3 billion and operations spanning more than 45 countries. Dr. Segura previously served as Chairperson of the Board. Both helped establish The Trust in 1997 alongside then-OAS Secretary General César Gaviria and Susan Benson. Guillermo Areas, Head of Government Relations and External Affairs for Latin America and the Caribbean at the BMW Group, will continue to serve as Secretary of the Board. The transition follows the conclusion of Enrique García’s tenure as Chairman of the Board. As former Executive President of CAF—Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean—García helped strengthen The Trust’s regional partnerships and visibility throughout the Americas. “It has been an honor to serve as Chairman of The Trust for the Americas,” said Enrique García. “I leave this role confident that the organization is well positioned for its next chapter.” “Since its founding in 1997, The Trust has demonstrated the power of bringing together governments, the private sector, and local communities to create opportunities across the Americas,” said June Langston DeHart, incoming Chairperson of the Board. “Over the years, The Trust has impacted more than 6 million people across 29 countries. Our focus moving forward is expansion.” Today, the organization works alongside leaders such as Stanley Motta of Copa Holdings, Alberto “Tito” Arciniega of Microsoft, Enrique García of CAF, and OAS Secretary General Albert Ramdin, as well as partners including Citi, EY, HP, Banco BHD, Mastercard, BMW Group, and Cemex, to help connect communities across Latin America and the Caribbean with the opportunities shaping the future economy. Some of these individuals serve on the governing body of The Trust. “The Trust is uniquely positioned to align the capabilities of the private sector with the priorities of governments and the needs of communities, thereby ensuring greater prosperity for all,” said incoming Vice Chairperson Dr. Enrique Segura. For governments, companies, and communities across the hemisphere, organizations like The Trust for the Americas continue to demonstrate how partnerships can create visible opportunities and tangible impact in people’s daily lives.

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Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Small Business and the Trust for the Americas Launch a National Pilot Program to Strengthen the Competitiveness of Dominican SMEs Through Artificial Intelligence

The Dominican Republic will host the pilot program, with the goal of expanding it to other countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Santo Domingo, June 1, 2026. – The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM) and The Trust for the Americas have announced an artificial intelligence (AI) advisory program that will train 50 Dominican small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) over a seven-month period. The initiative will have nationwide reach and be delivered virtually, with support from the MiPymes Centers and Banco BHD. The Trust for the Americas, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), selected the Dominican Republic as the pilot location due to its leadership in business development policies, the strength of its SME ecosystem, and its political commitment to modernizing the sector. Yayo Sanz Lovatón, Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, stated: “SMEs account for the majority of formal employment in the Dominican Republic. This program comes at a time when AI adoption is no longer a competitive advantage but a survival requirement for the sector.” Today, many SMEs across the region use AI tools but lack the knowledge to apply them effectively in their day-to-day operations. Businesses without training in emerging technologies face a growing risk of falling behind competitively. For this reason, the pilot will provide practical guidance to help each company adopt AI tools tailored to its specific needs. “The success of this pilot will not be measured solely by how many companies adopt artificial intelligence, but by how many are able to grow, strengthen their operations, and compete in an increasingly digital economy. At The Trust for the Americas, we believe innovation only has value when it expands opportunities for more people, and this initiative represents a concrete step toward technology-driven economic inclusion in the region,” said Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas. Funding for the program comes from Banco BHD and other private-sector partners. Steven Puig, President of Banco BHD, stated: “Our institution serves more than 155,000 Dominican SMEs. This pilot represents a tangible opportunity to increase the productivity of participating businesses and enhance our country’s competitiveness.” The program emerged from a multi-stakeholder partnership forged through diplomacy. The Permanent Mission of the Dominican Republic to the OAS established the institutional framework to connect MICM with The Trust for the Americas. Building on that foundation, three operational partners will make the pilot possible: (1) MICM will coordinate the selection of priority sectors. (2) The MiPymes Centers will facilitate demonstration sessions and training activities for participating companies. (3) Banco BHD will contribute its expertise in non-financial business development services, participate in identifying participating companies, and support implementation. This pilot serves as an example of how partnerships among governments, the private sector, and international organizations can be transformed into opportunities for people and businesses. Since its founding, The Trust for the Americas has worked to close economic inclusion gaps across the region through programs that have reached millions of entrepreneurs, young people, and vulnerable communities throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Based on the results of this initiative in the Dominican Republic, the organization will evaluate how to replicate the model in other countries across the region, making AI a growth tool accessible to any Latin American SME. About the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM): The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM) is the governing body responsible for public policies related to industrial, commercial, and business development in the Dominican Republic. Through its Vice Ministry for MSME Development, it promotes the formalization, competitiveness, and growth of Dominican micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization that promotes social and economic inclusion by equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the evolving world of work. As an affiliate of the Organization of American States (OAS), The Trust builds strategic partnerships with the public sector, private sector, academia, and civil society to expand opportunities throughout the region. With nearly 30 years of experience, the organization has impacted more than 6.3 million people in 29 countries, fostering economic opportunity and promoting innovation as a driver of progress across the Americas.

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MICM and The Trust for the Americas Launch a National Pilot Program to Strengthen the Competitiveness of Dominican SMEs Through Artificial Intelligence

The Dominican Republic will host the pilot program, with the goal of expanding it to other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Santo Domingo, June 1. – The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM) and The Trust for the Americas announce an artificial intelligence (AI) advisory program that will train 50 Dominican SMEs over seven months, with nationwide reach and delivered virtually. The initiative will be carried out with support from the MiPymes Centers and Banco BHD. The Trust for the Americas, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), chose the Dominican Republic as the site for the pilot program due to its leadership in business development policies, the strength of its SME ecosystem, and the political will to modernize the sector. Yayo Sanz Lovatón, Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, stated: “SMEs account for the majority of formal employment in the Dominican Republic. This program comes at a time when the adoption of AI is no longer a competitive advantage, but a matter of survival for the sector.” Today, many SMEs in the region use AI tools but do not know how to apply them efficiently in their daily operations. Companies without training in emerging technologies face a growing risk of falling behind the competition. Therefore, the pilot program will provide practical guidance so that each company can adopt AI tools tailored to its actual needs. “The success of this pilot will not be measured solely by how many companies adopt artificial intelligence, but by how many manage to grow, strengthen their operations, and compete in an increasingly digital economy. At The Trust for the Americas, we believe that innovation only has value when it expands opportunities for more people, and this effort represents a concrete step toward technology-driven economic inclusion in the region,” said Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas. Funding comes from Banco BHD and other private-sector partners. Steven Puig, president of Banco BHD, noted, “Our institution serves more than 155,000 Dominican SMEs. This pilot program represents a concrete opportunity to increase the productivity of participating SMEs and our country’s competitiveness.” This program emerged from a multi-stakeholder partnership built through diplomatic efforts. The Permanent Mission of the Dominican Republic to the OAS paved the institutional way to connect the MICM with The Trust for the Americas. Building on that foundation, three operational partners will make the pilot possible: the MICM will coordinate the selection of priority sectors; the MiPymes Centers will facilitate demonstration and training sessions with the beneficiary companies; and Banco BHD will contribute its expertise in non-financial business development services, participate in identifying companies, and support implementation. This pilot is an example of how partnerships between governments, the private sector, and international organizations can be transformed into opportunities for people and businesses. Since its founding, The Trust for the Americas has worked to close economic inclusion gaps in the region through programs that have reached millions of entrepreneurs, young people, and vulnerable communities in Latin America and the Caribbean. Based on the results of this initiative in the Dominican Republic, the organization will evaluate how to replicate the model in other countries in the region, so that AI becomes a tool for growth accessible to any Latin American SME. About the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs: The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM) is the governing body for public policies on industrial, commercial, and business development in the Dominican Republic. Through the Vice Ministry for the Promotion of MSMEs, it promotes the formalization, competitiveness, and growth of Dominican micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization that promotes social and economic inclusion by equipping people with the key skills needed to thrive in the new world of work. As an affiliate of the Organization of American States (OAS), The Trust establishes strategic partnerships with the public, private, academic, and civil society sectors to expand opportunities throughout the region. With nearly 30 years of experience, it has impacted more than 6.3 million people in 29 countries, driving the development of economic opportunities and fostering innovation as a driver of progress in the Americas.

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The Trust for the Americas and Fundación UANL sign strategic agreement to bring artificial intelligence to 15,000 youth in Mexico

Washington, D.C., May 21, 2026. — The Trust for the Americas and the Autonomous University of Nuevo León Foundation, A.C. (UANL Foundation) held a symbolic signing ceremony for an international collaboration agreement at the headquarters of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington, D.C., with the aim of expanding access to training programs in digital skills and artificial intelligence for students and communities associated with the educational institution. The agreement provides for the implementation of free, online, 45-minute micro-learning modules designed to facilitate flexible access to practical knowledge about artificial intelligence applied to education and entrepreneurship. The initiative has the technological support of Microsoft, which will enable the incorporation of tools and content aligned with the current demands of the labor market and the digital economy. The event brought together officials from both institutions, who agreed on the importance of building partnerships that respond to the demands of a changing labor market and help close the technological skills gaps in the Americas. Together, these initiatives have the potential to benefit more than 15,000 young people in the UANL university community. In his remarks, Alexander Figueroa, COO of The Trust for the Americas, stated: “This partnership reaffirms our commitment to putting the tools of the digital economy in the hands of those who need them most. When young people have access to real opportunities, communities thrive.” “This agreement is important because when a young person gains access to real digital tools, when they learn about artificial intelligence applied to specific problems in their community, something extraordinary happens. They discover their potential and see themselves with new possibilities”—Diego A. Hernández de León, Executive Director of the UANL Foundation. The UANL Foundation A.C., the strategic outreach arm of the Autonomous University of Nuevo León, has consolidated its role as a key player in promoting educational, social, and innovation initiatives, fostering opportunities for comprehensive development and strengthening ties with the public and private sectors. This international partnership reaffirms both organizations’ shared commitment to talent development, digital inclusion, and the creation of opportunities that contribute to the region’s economic and social development. *** About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is an organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS) that promotes inclusive economic development in Latin America and the Caribbean through innovation, digital skills training, and the creation of opportunities for vulnerable populations. About Fundación UANL A.C. Fundación UANL A.C. is a nonprofit organization with 26 years of experience that strengthens the ties between the Autonomous University of Nuevo León and society, focused on achieving social transformation through education, with a vision of bringing philanthropy to the realm of shared value, as well as creating opportunities that improve the quality of life and competitiveness in the region.

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EY and The Trust for the Americas Launch a Virtual Platform to Help Bridge the Digital Divide in Colombia with Support from Microsoft

Bogotá, Colombia. – May 8, 2026. With the goal of promoting key digital skills for the future of work, EY, The Trust for the Americas, and the organization Laudes Infantis announced the launch of the AI Skills Passport, an artificial intelligence (AI) training platform developed with support from Microsoft. The presentation took place during a workshop for high school students, as part of an initiative aimed at strengthening and democratizing access to digital knowledge in the country. The event brought together 72 eleventh-grade students from two high schools in the town of Ciudad Bolívar, who participated in a learning experience at EY’s offices in Bogotá. The project aims to equip young people with fundamental AI skills and encourage them to use this platform, which, through five modules, teaches the responsible use of this technology and illustrates how it can be applied in various fields (such as sustainability, business, and entrepreneurship, among others), thereby better preparing them for increasingly digital work environments. Students who complete the entire course will receive a certificate issued by EY and Microsoft that they can include in their academic record. “Today we are taking another step toward driving the country’s development and expanding opportunities for young people through new technologies. In Colombia, according to figures from MinTIC, although 74 % of the population has Internet access, the digital divide remains deep: only 35 % of Colombians have mastered basic digital skills, and 25% use artificial intelligence. For this reason, the AI Skills Passport becomes a valuable platform for democratizing access to digital knowledge for new generations, enabling them to accelerate their development and be better prepared for today’s job opportunities. ”This is how, at EY, we are committed to quality education as a tool for social transformation and are shaping the future with confidence,“ said Beatriz Carmona, Consulting Partner at EY Colombia. During the event, in which the young people had an immersive experience in a corporate environment, volunteers from EY and Microsoft taught specialized content and, through hands-on exercises, guided the students in applying the artificial intelligence skills they had acquired. At the same time, they reinforced skills such as teamwork, innovation, communication, creativity, and critical thinking to ensure the responsible and effective use of technology. ”At Microsoft, we believe that artificial intelligence is not just a technology—it’s an opportunity to transform lives. Initiatives like the AI Skills Passport allow us to bring this knowledge to young people—especially those who have historically had less access—so that they not only understand the future of work but can also play a leading role in it. Our commitment is to continue expanding access to these opportunities so that more people can actively participate in this transformation,“ said Catalina Rengifo, Leader of Social Impact Programs in Connection with Employees at Microsoft, emphasizing the role of AI as a fundamental skill for the future of work. For her part, Lourdes Serrano, Regional Program Manager at The Trust for the Americas, highlighted the social impact of such initiatives: ”We remain firmly committed to closing the technology skills gap in the region. Through strategic partnerships, we facilitate access to training in artificial intelligence, strengthening young people’s skills and expanding their opportunities for employment and educational development.“ ”On behalf of Laudes Infantis and the principals of the Vargas Vila and Nicolás Gómez Dávila high schools, we thank EY and Microsoft for their leadership, as well as Trust for the Americas for their support in enabling high school seniors to participate in an experience that introduces them to the business and technology sectors—an experience that will undoubtedly broaden their future prospects and strengthen their opportunities for learning and innovation,” said Almudena Rivas, Director of Community Development. Through initiatives like this, the organizations join forces to promote equitable access to technology skills—especially in underserved communities—thereby reaffirming their commitment to education, innovation, and the development of young talent in Latin America. About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization that promotes social and economic inclusion by equipping people with the key skills they need to thrive in the new world of work. As an affiliate of the Organization of American States (OAS), The Trust forges strategic partnerships with the public, private, academic, and civil society sectors to expand opportunities throughout the region. With 28 years of experience, it has impacted more than 5.5 million people in 29 countries, driving the development of economic opportunities and fostering innovation as an engine of progress in the Americas. About EY: EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society, and the planet, while fostering trust in capital markets. Driven by data, AI, and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop solutions to the most pressing challenges of today and tomorrow. EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in Audit and Tax, Consulting, Tax and Legal, Strategy, and Transactions. Driven by industry expertise, a globally connected and multidisciplinary network, and partners from diverse ecosystems, we deliver solutions in more than 150 countries and territories. About Laudes Infantis: It was established as a nonprofit organization in 1999, with the initial purpose of preventing children and youth from ending up on the streets of Bogotá, D.C. After many years of work in the field, Laudes Infantis carries out initiatives aimed at strengthening the social fabric, enhancing the capabilities and skills of its members, and creating positive role models among young people and adults so that children can find appropriate role models to follow,

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The CIMA Project closes successfully after four years of promoting the economic autonomy of young women in Mexico

Mexico City, April 15.—After four years of implementation, the CIMA Project (Comprehensive Training for Women in Action), implemented by The Trust for the Americas in partnership with Jóvenes Constructores de la Comunidad AC and Centro Laboral México IAP, concluded its activities, establishing itself as a key initiative for strengthening the skills and employability of young women in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area. Since its launch in April 2022, the project has graduated 860 women, 475 of whom were connected to opportunities for employment, self-employment, or continuing education, contributing significantly to their economic autonomy and professional development. The closing event brought together strategic partners, program participants, and institutional representatives for a day that highlighted the program’s main results, lessons learned, and testimonials. The session began with a welcome and opening remarks, followed by a presentation of results by Lourdes Serrano, regional manager at The Trust, who outlined the impact achieved throughout the program’s implementation. During the event, partner organizations such as CELAMEX and JCC participated, sharing institutional messages and success stories that reflect the tangible impact of the project on the lives of the participants. The stories presented demonstrated how access to comprehensive training, digital skills, and employability tools has enabled the beneficiaries to improve their living conditions and pursue new opportunities. The CIMA Project focused on providing training in technical and socio-emotional skills, incorporating innovative content such as digital tools, employability, and applied artificial intelligence, thereby strengthening the participants’ preparedness to meet the demands of today’s labor market. This closing ceremony marks the beginning of a new phase aimed at the sustainability and scalability of the model, with the goal of continuing to drive initiatives that promote the economic inclusion of young women in Mexico and the region.

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The Trust for the Americas and the Organization of American States Present the 2025 Corporate Citizen of the Americas Award to Mastercard

Washington, D.C. – April 24, 2026 — The Trust for the Americas and the Organization of American States (OAS) presented Mastercard with the 2025 Corporate Citizen of the Americas (CCA) Award during a ceremony and luncheon in the Miranda Room at OAS Headquarters. The CCA Award recognizes companies that have made a real difference in improving the lives of underserved communities and promoting economic growth throughout the Western Hemisphere for over 15 years. The award honors the Mastercard Strive initiative—a program of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth—and Mastercard’s leadership in digital and financial inclusion, innovation, and economic opportunity across the region. Mastercard Strive helps small businesses thrive in today’s digital economy by providing entrepreneurs with practical tools, access to capital, and trusted connections—enabling them to strengthen their operations, reach more customers, and drive inclusive economic growth in communities throughout the Americas. The award was presented by Dr. Michael Bogachek, Executive Director of the OAS, on behalf of H.E. Albert Ramdin, Secretary General of the OAS, and accepted by Mr. Jon Huntsman Jr., Vice Chairman and President of Strategic Growth at Mastercard. “For the OAS, it is an honor to present this award, together with The Trust for the Americas, to an organization whose work inspires what we do across our Member States. This award reminds us of the importance of having partners that not only connect sectors but also take action, turning collaboration into tangible results for people,” Bogachek said. During the award reception, Mr. Jon Huntsman Jr. said, “Across Latin America and the Caribbean, the scale of opportunity demands collaboration. Through Trust Emprende and Mastercard Strive, we’re proud to work with partners across the public, private, and multilateral sectors to help small businesses build resilience, adopt digital tools, and grow.”The ceremony also featured discussions on new opportunities to expand impact through initiatives such as Trust Emprende, which will collaborate with partners like Mastercard to strengthen micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Latin America and the Caribbean. Dr. Enrique Segura, CEO of ENSE Group and Founding Chairman of The Trust for the Americas, said, “Mastercard’s commitment to digital and financial inclusion across the Americas exemplifies exactly the kind of corporate leadership this award was created to honor. For twenty years, the CCA Award has celebrated companies that put purpose at the center of their business, and Mastercard has proven, through its Mastercard Strive initiative and beyond, that innovation and impact go hand in hand.” The gathering included ambassadors to the OAS from Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Panama, as well as private-sector leaders from Citi, BMW, Banco BHD, and Mastercard. The 2025 Corporate Citizen of the Americas Award honors Mastercard’s leadership in advancing economic inclusion and reflects a shared commitment to creating opportunities where they are needed most. Together, The Trust for the Americas and Mastercard are laying the foundation for a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient future for communities across the Americas. *** About The Trust for the Americas: The Trust for the Americas is a nonprofit organization that promotes social and economic inclusion in the hemisphere by developing key skills for employability, entrepreneurship, and innovation. As an organization affiliated with the Organization of American States, The Trust forges regional and local partnerships with the public, private, academic, and civil society sectors. Since its founding, it has worked in more than 29 countries across the Americas and has impacted over 6 million people through initiatives that connect training, technology, and real economic opportunities. About the Organization of American States The Organization of American States (OAS) is the world’s oldest regional organization and the main political, legal, and social governmental forum in the Western Hemisphere. It brings together the 35 independent states of the Americas, with an additional 70 states and the European Union holding permanent observer status. The OAS operates across four core pillars—democracy, human rights, security, and development—to promote peace, solidarity, and cooperation among its member states. About Mastercard: Mastercard fuels economies and empowers people in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can thrive. We support a wide range of digital payment options, making transactions secure, simple, smart, and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships, and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses, and governments realize their greatest potential. www.mastercard.com 

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President of Banco BHD elected to the Board of Directors of The Trust for the Americas

Steven Puig joins the executive team of The Trust for the Americas, an affiliate of the Organization of American States (OAS). National District, Dominican Republic. Steven Puig, president of Banco BHD, was elected to the board of directors of The Trust for the Americas, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), founded in 1997 with the goal of promoting social and economic inclusion in the hemisphere through the development of key skills for employability, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The board of directors is the foundation’s highest governing body and is composed of the Secretary General of the Organization of American States, as well as high-level leaders from private-sector companies and organizations such as CEMEX, COPA Holdings, BMW, San Francisco General Hospital, MasterCard, ENSE Group, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, Microsoft, and Grupo Ardila Lülle. Its members actively participate in strategic decision-making that guides the organization’s direction. Linda Eddleman, CEO of The Trust for the Americas, stated, “As the newest member of our distinguished board of directors, Steven Puig will play key roles in guiding our strategic initiatives and ensuring the organization’s financial integrity, transparency, and regulatory compliance. His extensive knowledge of the financial sector and his focus on inclusion will strengthen our mission to provide training and create high-impact economic opportunities for millions of people in the region.” Puig is a financial industry professional with more than thirty years of experience in international and domestic banking and industry trends. He has served as president of Banco BHD since 2023 and has been with the financial institution for more than a decade. “It is an honor for me to serve on the board of directors of The Trust for the Americas, an organization that has implemented projects in 29 countries, working with more than a thousand organizations, with the goal of strengthening social development and inclusion in the region,” said Puig. The BHD executive’s understanding and global vision of the banking business and its markets are evident in his professional career, which includes leadership roles at other financial institutions such as Citibank Colombia and Citibank El Salvador. He has also held other executive positions at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in the United States, Citigroup for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Chase Manhattan in Puerto Rico and the United States. Puig’s commitment as a visionary leader is grounded not only in his knowledge and extensive expertise in the banking industry but also in the work ethic and human virtues that set him apart as a person, a coworker, a team member, and, of course, a leader.

President of Banco BHD elected to the Board of Directors of The Trust for the Americas Read More »