Ecuadorian Delegation
In partnership with One Young World (with the support of Ecuador Un Solo Corazon, Vivo Joven and Fundación Resurgere), The First Lady of Ecuador María De Lourdes Alcivar De Lasso formed a delegation of Ecuador’s brightest and most talented young leaders creating the "Youth United in Action National Prize’' to promote young talent in every corner of the country.
The award was created to identify outstanding young leaders from each of Ecuador's 24 provinces who demonstrate ethical leadership skills and positive impact in several areas.
24
Winners - one from each province in Ecuador
1
Cohort
With more than 630 applications from all over the country, the Youth United in Action National Prize was awarded to one young leader from each of the 24 provinces of the country. The incredible young leaders were selected by a jury of 5 professionals with expertise in the following themes: Mental Health, Climate Change (care of the oceans and the Amazon), Defending the Rights of Women, and Migration.
As part of the prize, the 24 young leaders were invited to an exclusive event at the presidential Carondelet Palace. There, they were awarded by the First Lady of Ecuador María De Lourdes Alcivar De Lasso and Ministers of the country.
Presentation of “Ecuador, Un Solo Corazón”
News
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Jóvenes ecuatorianos fueron seleccionados por el Premio Jóvenes Unidos en Acción y participarán en Cumbre Mundial de liderazgo
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24 jóvenes ecuatorianos fueron seleccionados por el Premio Jóvenes Unidos
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Ecuatorianos Seleccionados Por El Premio Jóvenes Unidos En Acción Y Participarán En Cumbre Mundial De Liderazgo
Youth United in Action Scholars 2023
Alex José Flores Arciniega
President of the Fuerza Del Presente Foundation FDP
Ecuador
Bio
The Somos Huaquer project was born out of a need to empower public spaces and address rights violations in the Huaquer Community. It started on December 30, 2017, with the Organizational and Territorial Capacity Forum, where the central focus was on preserving the habitat of the Andean condor. Since that date, the following educational meetings have taken place:
- Fuerza Del Presente Encounter
- Joven Carchense Actívate (Activate, Carchense Youth)
- Joven Mireño Impulsate (Empower, Mireño Youth)
- Aquisito es Mira Forums 1, 2, and 3 (Here is Mira Forums 1, 2, and 3)
These events have involved the participation and organization efforts of children, adolescents, and youth from Huaquer. In addition, there have been panel discussions, talks, and spaces for volunteers from other provinces. Somos Huaquer has also participated in events organized by national and international entities such as:
- Impulso Joven (Youth Momentum)
- She Is
- WEF Colombia (World Economic Forum Colombia)
Somos Huaquer has established itself as a collective that seeks sustainable development in its territory. It utilizes the 2030 Agenda as a tool to facilitate the execution of all activities, processes, and events. From rural areas, we face many challenges, and Somos Huaquer aims to create sustainable development opportunities for current and future generations.
Expertise
Sustainable Development
Anthony Rolando Cabrera Cordova
JCI Ecuador 2023 National Vice President
Ecuador
Bio
Anthony Rolando Cabrera Córdova, a 25-year-old native of Santo Domingo, is a passionate leader dedicated to positive social change. With a degree in Software Engineering, he has transcended the boundaries of his profession to become an influential advocate for various causes.
Over the course of four years with JCI Santo Domingo, he has held key roles, from Director of Marketing to Immediate Past President. His influence extends nationally as the National Vice President of JCI Ecuador for 2023.
The project "Sí se puede," an emblematic podcast of JCI Santo Domingo, reflects his innovative vision. Anthony has been a driving force behind the podcast, which highlights the voices of notable leaders and shares valuable lessons on combining social commitment with professional success. His involvement in JCI has also led him to lead projects in critical areas, from environmental care to women's advocacy, leaving tangible traces of social impact. With a recognized track record, graduation from leadership academies, and participation in international conferences, Anthony embodies the essence of a bold and visionary leader. His commitment to social improvement and his ability to inspire others make him a beacon of change in Ecuador and beyond.
Expertise
Software Development, Information Technology, Social Work
Astrid Coraima Torres Bermúdez
Co-founder of Jóvenes Iberoamericanos
Ecuador
Bio
Journalist, director, and screenwriter from La Troncal. She holds a degree in Social Communication from the Salesian Polytechnic University, Guayaquil branch, and a degree in Film from the University of the Arts. Her investigative focus centres on human rights, environmentalism, and feminism.
She is a co-founder of Jóvenes Iberoamericanos, a youth organization with a presence in over 20 countries. She was a youth spokesperson at the Youth Pact Delivery during the Ibero-American Summit of Heads of State in Cartagena and represented Latin American youth at the commitment delivery during the Population and Development Summit in Nairobi in 2019.
She has been a fellow of FES-NY, Global Solutions, Fundación Botín, and Hoja Blanca. She is a member of the 6th generation of the Latam Young Journalists Network driven by Factual Mx and part of the Bosques Latam research team. Currently, she collaboratively promotes the journalistic project "Efecto," which aims to narrate Ecuador through stories. On TikTok, she creates content on accounts like @rojaindomita, where she provides political analysis. Since 2020, she has been working on feminist film projects set in La Troncal and El Triunfo, the places where she lives, which are not commonly represented in Ecuadorian cinema. Her interest lies in building perspectives from these regions.
Expertise
Journalism
Doménica Cobo Flandoli
Executive Director of JuntasXEllas
Ecuador
Bio
I am a determined, passionate, and sensitive person from Cuenca, Ecuador. I love my country, its food, its people, and its landscapes. I also have roots in Ambato and Italian immigrant heritage from post-World War II. I was raised by a woman who taught me to be grateful and to give back to life for all the kindness and grace it has bestowed upon us through perseverance and attitude.
I graduated as a lawyer one year ago, but three years ago, during the pandemic, I decided to embark on my first venture in a non-profit organization for women. This dream achieved the desired impact in January 2022 when I started working on mental health for women and adolescents throughout Ecuador, using technology as my ally.
Why mental health if I am a lawyer? Because mental health has helped me cope with many events and emotions in my life, and we are living in an unprecedented time in history when it comes to mental health. Why women? Because it's my life's mission. I chose to work and invest in them through something that had not been considered as a direct community and social impact. I want this project to continue positively impacting the lives of women so that psychology is not a luxury for the few, especially in a disruptive area with innovation and access to technology, and certainly not a taboo.
I am passionate about reading stories and autobiographies. I am fascinated by animals and have rescued more than 50 dogs and cats, of which 6 have become permanent members of my home.
Expertise
Mental Health
Estefanía Monserrath Cabascango Chiliquinga
Project Manager at Napo Sumaco Geopark UNESCO Aspirant
Ecuador
Bio
I am Estefanía Cabascango. I am 25 years old and I live in the Tena canton in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Currently, I am the director of projects at the Napo Sumaco Geopark, a UNESCO Aspiring Geopark, and a graduate of the Geosciences Engineering program at the Ikiam Regional Amazon University. I firmly believe that ancestral knowledge and scientific knowledge go hand in hand to achieve sustainable and resilient societies.
Juan Montalvo, through his books, was one of my greatest influences, instilling in me from a young age the idea of being a person of action. That's why I am an activist for gender equality, the protection of urban wildlife, the eradication of social inequality, environmental conservation, and the preservation of geological heritage, among other causes. I seek to create collective, inclusive, and strong spaces that allow us to progress as a society alongside other living beings and their environment.
I am a lover of spaces dedicated to art, culture, sports, and recreation. I firmly believe that it is in these spaces that new ways of positively shaping the world we live in emerge, and that's why we must take ownership of public spaces.
I believe that my tenacity, empathy, and leadership have allowed me to contribute from various angles. The most valuable lesson I have learned in the Amazon is that through "minga" (community cooperation), we build, always walking alongside the local communities, who are the natural guardians of the geological, biological, and cultural diversity of this region.
Expertise
Conservation
Evelyn Patricia Yucailla Espín
Co-creator of Radio Valiente
Ecuador
Bio
After being a victim of sexual violence at the age of 15, she embarked on a quest for justice. After exposing the case in the National Assembly, she became a part of the AAMPETRA Occasional Commission, dedicated to unveiling cases of sexual abuse in the country. Her case became one of the 8 emblematic cases in the country. Following the closure of the Aampetra Commission, along with other survivors and rights advocates, she formed the National Coalition Against Child Sexual Abuse (COCASEN) in July 2018.
In November 2019, she became a representative of the Youth Advisory Council of Tungurahua, and in December of the same year, she was elected as the National Secretary of the National Youth Advisory Council of Ecuador.
In 2020, she collaborated with Human Rights Watch in their investigation and report titled "Ecuador: High Levels of Sexual Violence in Schools," where her case was part of the research and audiovisual report presented to the authorities of the country, providing recommendations on the issue of sexual violence in the educational system.
During 2021, she began working as a trainer at the Cantonal Council for the Protection of Rights in Ambato, using her experience to raise awareness among the public about violence issues and the resilience of survivors of violence. In the same year, she was re-elected as a representative of the Youth Advisory Council of the Tungurahua Province and was elected as the National President of the National Youth Advisory Council of Ecuador. Additionally, she was awarded the TOYP 2021 Tungurahua and TOYP National 2021 awards in the category of Achievements and Personal Overcoming, organized by the Junior Chamber International.
She is a co-creator of a radio project called "Radio Valiente," alongside another survivor of sexual violence. This radio program is broadcast from the cities of Mexico and Ambato and aims to bring attention to the issues of sexual violence in Ecuador and Mexico.
Expertise
Human Rights, Advocacy, Policy and Advocacy, Social Work
Fernando André Freire Noboa
Law Student
Ecuador
Bio
Fernando André Freire Noboa is a 21-year-old young man who resides in the city of Guayaquil. He is the co-founder of the Fernove Foundation, an organization of which he currently serves as the president. Fernando began his social work at a young age, starting at the age of 12 when he sponsored various communities in the Guayas region, including El Tigre, Sabanilla, and Muey.
In 2016, at the age of just 14, Fernando Freire Noboa volunteered during the earthquake in Manabí, providing support in San Vicente and Pedernales within the temporary shelters that were set up.
In April 2020, at the age of 18, Fernando, in collaboration with his mother Martha Noboa, launched the social campaign #AyudaparaBalao with the goal of helping to reduce the number of COVID-19-related deaths in the Balao Canton. Due to a lack of medical supplies, with the support of both local and international contributions from the United States, Norway, and Canada, they were able to provide essential equipment such as oxygen tanks, mechanical ventilators, hospital beds, and more. This initiative led to a stabilization in the daily death rate in the canton.
To date, Fernando has volunteered in rescue and support efforts during more than 10 natural disaster events in Ecuador. Together with the foundation, they have been able to benefit over 10,000 people since 2020 up to the present day.
Expertise
Law, Disaster Relief, Social Work
Jefferson Bolivar Castillo Esmeralda
Founder of the NGO "Youth Protectors of the Planet"
Ecuador
Bio
I am Jefferson Esmeralda, and I live in the Esmeraldas Province of Ecuador. I am an Environmental Engineer, Climate Activist, advocate for Human Rights and Nature. I am the founder of the NGO "Youth Protectors of the Planet." Within the organization I represent, we develop projects, programs, activities, and actions aimed at reducing the climate crisis, eradicating gender-based violence, and protecting the human rights of Afro-descendants.
Currently, I am involved in the implementation of inclusive environmental education projects, initiatives to combat gender-based violence, and efforts to prevent drug consumption among adolescents in Esmeraldas. I also write opinion articles about socio-environmental issues in the region, provide social assistance to vulnerable groups, and volunteer for programs such as "VivioJoven," the Special Educational Unit "Nuevo Amanecer," and the Youth Network LAC.
As an agent of change, I align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13, 4, 5, 8, and 10. I aim to transform social inequality by developing innovative ideas with a future perspective, in order to create a society free from violence, racism, and classism on a global scale.
Expertise
Sustainable Development, Climate Change, Women's Rights
Jenko Joseph Del Rosario Loor
Operational Coordinator of the Fotosentidos Project in Ecuador
Ecuador
Bio
Jenko Del Rosario is a passionate advocate for social change and a dedicated volunteer from an early age. Since the age of 12, he has devoted his time and energy to the Ecuadorian Red Cross, making a significant impact on lives and communities. His heart beats for social inclusion and equal opportunities, especially for those with disabilities or who have been socially excluded.
Today, as the manager and operational coordinator of the inspiring Fotosentidos Ecuador project, he seeks to take his dedication to a new level. Fotosentidos is an innovative project that uses multisensory photography to bridge the gap between blind individuals and the visual world around them. This initiative not only enables artistic expression but also fosters inclusion and understanding through the active involvement of visually impaired individuals in the creation of these unique visual works.
My commitment to equality and community connection is a beacon of hope. I firmly believe that volunteering and the potential of young people can leave a lasting impact on the lives of many. I believe that changing the world is possible; let's change the world!
Expertise
Disability, Social Work
Josselin Alejandra Hernández Altamirano
Environmental Education Analyst at the Pindo Mirador Biological Station of the Autonomous Decentralized Provincial Government of Pastaza
Ecuador
Bio
I graduated as a Biotechnology Engineer and am currently an associated researcher with the "Biomolecule Discovery" research group at Ikiam Amazon Regional University. My research focuses on studying the proteome of snake venom and its therapeutic and antimicrobial applications. I currently work at the Pindo Mirador Biological Station of the Provincial Decentralized Autonomous Government of Pastaza as an "Environmental Education Analyst." In this role, I am responsible for developing projects that raise awareness about the importance of nature conservation and the need to generate effective Environmental Education strategies to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation while addressing the reduction of biodiversity loss by promoting the conservation of the Amazon.
My goal is to create and acquire playful and interactive educational materials, as well as to integrate art as a teaching method. The Amazon faces issues such as wildlife trafficking, which have been deteriorating and affecting biodiversity, not to mention the cruelty and conditions these animals have to endure. Additionally, many animals, due to ignorance and fear, have been judged, rejected, and exterminated, such as snakes. The aim is to educate the population of Pastaza for the conservation of these species.
Expertise
Conservation, Climate Change
Juan Fernando Pesántez Muñoz
Founding Member and Director of the "Contamos Contigo Ecuador" Foundation (FCCE)
Ecuador
Bio
I am a marine biologist with an M.Sc. in Research, Innovation, and Environmental Science and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Conservation. I have completed diplomas in scientific research, environmental education, and educational management. I am a member of the Advisory Committee of Young People of the European Union in Ecuador (CoCoEcu) and the President and young ocean leader of "SOA Ecuador Hub Manabí." Additionally, I am a Founding Member and Director of the "Contamos Contigo Ecuador" Foundation (FCCE) and a Founding Member and Representative of the "Academia del Océano."
I also work as a technician at the "Campamento Tortuguero Reina Laúd" and specialize in leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) as part of the Laúd OPO network. I am a member of the College of Biologists of Manabí. My work primarily focuses on the conservation and research of sea turtles and microplastic pollution in coastal areas. I am the author of a book on climate change and its impact on sea turtles due to rising tides. I frequently speak and educate on ocean-related topics through webinars, workshops, and courses aimed at communities, NGOs, environmental networks, universities, public and private institutions. I also serve as a spokesperson at national and international conferences and events.
Expertise
Conservation, Water & Sanitation, Public Speaking / Pitching
Juan Marcelo Ortiz Contreras
Field Technician Specialized in Sugar Cane Production
Ecuador
Bio
Juan Marcelo Ortiz Contreras serves as a field technician specialized in sugar cane production and has collaborated with farmers and organizations in the Amazon region of Ecuador. He was born on January 2, 1991, in Cuenca, Ecuador, and has been residing in Macas, Morona Santiago Province, for the past 17 years, dedicating himself passionately to knowledge transfer and rural development in this Amazonian area.
Ortiz completed his Bachelor's degree in Gastronomic Management at the Polytechnic School of Chimborazo, where he developed an interest in the connection between the rural sector and its relevance in the agri-food chain, focusing on value-added creation. Continuing his education, he is currently pursuing a master's degree in Sustainable Agribusiness at the National University of Loja.
His career with the Ministries of Culture and Heritage, as well as Agriculture and Livestock, GADs (Decentralized Autonomous Governments), and the Sugar Cane Growers' Cooperative, has been centered on facilitating training processes and knowledge transmission to Amazonian farmers. His focus is on sustainable production and the promotion of agricultural and manufacturing practices that respect the ecosystem. Ortiz has been invited to speak at conferences at both national and international levels, addressing topics related to entrepreneurship, value-added generation, and sustainable sugar cane cultivation in the Ecuadorian Amazon. In addition to his professional work, Ortiz demonstrates a profound commitment to the Amazon, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and the conservation of the rainforest and its communities.
Expertise
Agriculture, Conservation, Sustainable Development
Lincoln Josué Escobar Salazar
Founder of the Amazonian collective "Junicam Putumayo"
Ecuador
Bio
I am Lincoln Escobar Salazar, born in Putumayo and with a heart in Esmeraldas. I am 24 years old, and I started as an activist for social and community causes at the age of 14, with a vision of transformation through sustained volunteer work in popular education, art, human rights advocacy, and social intervention.
I am a professional sociologist and the founder of the Amazonian collective "Junicam Putumayo." I have a significant track record as a participant and leader in socially impactful activities in the Putumayo canton, such as the "Amazonian Barter" and the "Life Skills; Learning through Play - Culture of Peace" project, where I volunteered. The combination of the above, along with my strong academic abilities, has allowed me to achieve the following milestones:
- Former scholar of Giving Tuesday through its Starling Collective program.
- Former scholar of the U.S. Department of State and Miami University through the SUSI program in Social Entrepreneurship and Economic Development.
- Former scholar of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung through its socio-political training program for progressive leadership.
- Currently, I am working on a project called "Mobile Library, Activating and Volunteering through Art," and I am a collaborator with the Redes con Rostro Foundation in the "Border Lives" program.
Expertise
Social Entrepreneurship, Social Work
Lorena Fernanda Gallardo Lastra
Co-founder and Technology and Innovation Manager at ReciVeci
Ecuador
Bio
Lorena Gallardo has extensive experience in the field of solid waste management and inclusive recycling. From an early age, Lorena has been involved in environmental and social activism collectives and organizations, which led her to pursue her professional career in that direction. She is an environmental engineer from the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Ecuador, holds a master's degree in Sustainable Cities and Buildings from the University of Melbourne, Australia, and a specialization in Leadership, Climate Change, and Cities from FLACSO, Ecuador.
Lorena has experience in academia, having served as a teacher for over 6 years at the Escuela Politécnica Nacional in Quito, Ecuador. Additionally, she has worked as a consultant for national and international entities such as Fundación Avina, Clean Air Task Force, and Ambire Global on projects related to solid waste management and inclusive recycling.
She is the co-founder and Technology and Innovation Manager at ReciVeci, a social startup in Ecuador that connects all stakeholders in the recyclable waste management chain through social and technological innovation, recognizing the work of grassroots recyclers. ReciVeci has received numerous national and international awards and recognitions for its pioneering work in the sector.
Expertise
Resource and Waste Management, Teaching and Training
Luis Armando Vargas Tocte
Indigenous Leader
Ecuador
Bio
I am Luis Armando Vargas Tocte, and I am 30 years old. I was born in the community of Llamahuasi in the Saquisilí canton of Cotopaxi province. Since childhood, I migrated to a rural neighborhood in the city of Pujilí. I come from a family of leaders, born into a social organization, and have been a volunteer with the Don Bosco organization, helping families with fewer economic resources and the elderly. From a very young age, I was involved in student leadership roles and participated in human rights activities.
Currently, I am an indigenous leader, and I enjoy participating in the political arena as a social activist. I am actively advocating for water rights, the protection of high-altitude ecosystems (páramos), and as a defender of nature and human rights. I am dedicated to protecting women who have experienced violence within the indigenous justice system and working to eliminate gender-based violence against both women and children. We continue to fight on multiple projects and raise our voices nationally and internationally for a better society and a world of peace.
Expertise
Water & Sanitation, Conservation, Activism, Women's Rights, Human Rights
Makarena Estefanía Freire Olivo
Co-founder of the Nukari Foundation
Ecuador
Bio
Makarena Freire is an empowered young woman with a degree in Public Management Administration and co-founder of Fundación Nukari, a non-profit organization that works on empowerment programs for young indigenous women in Ecuador.
Her passion for empowering indigenous women has led her to lead innovative projects such as "Warmi Preneur" and "Kutsa Power". In her role as coordinator of the "Warmi Preneur" project, Makarena works to empower indigenous women in business and entrepreneurship. The project provides training and advice so that these women can develop and strengthen their own enterprises and businesses.
In addition, as head of the "Kuytsa Power" project, Makarena supports young indigenous women on their way to complete their university studies. Through this program, she provides scholarships, tutoring and academic support to indigenous women so that they can access quality higher education and achieve their professional goals.
She is an inspirational figure in the struggle for gender equity and the inclusion of indigenous women in Ecuador. Her dedication and commitment have transformed the lives of many young women, giving them the opportunity to develop their skills, achieve economic independence and contribute to the development of their communities. Her leadership and commitment to these initiatives reflect her deep commitment to the well-being of young indigenous women and her conviction that education and empowerment are fundamental pillars for a more equal and just future in Ecuador.
Expertise
Teaching and Training, Social Work
María de los Ángeles Corrales Nieto
Project Manager at Asiris Association
Ecuador
Bio
I am an artist by passion and a teacher by vocation. My past defines my knowledge, my present is a commitment to my struggles, and the future determines where I will go. My name is María de los Ángeles Corrales Nieto, and I am 23 years old. Currently, I am studying pedagogy in arts and humanities in the province of Imbabura, Ecuador.
Here, I have allowed myself to get acquainted with the realities of my entire province. Quoting one of my greatest thinkers who inspire my academic and volunteer journey, Marie Curie, "The best life is not the longest, but the richest in good deeds." I commit myself to each of my actions because I like to be a strong pillar of the team I belong to, excelling in various areas and seizing opportunities in my environment.
Since the age of 11, I have contributed to the volunteer work of the Ecuadorian Red Cross as a trainer of trainers in sexual education and sexual and reproductive rights. Alongside CARE Ecuador, we created the "Cruzando Fronteras" initiative where sister countries (Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela) joined together to break stereotypes regarding Human Mobility.
I formed an alliance with the Autonomous University of Sinaloa in Mexico, where I had the opportunity to showcase the talent of my country. I feel fortunate to have the support of the Pan American Development Foundation "PADF" from the United States, which allowed me to pioneer the project called "Sello Violeta," which received international funding, promoting and contributing to the cause of creating spaces free from violence and discrimination through social education.
Currently, I am the director of projects at the Asiris Association, where we create peer education spaces on HIV and the rights of the LGBTI community. Finally, I am the director of projects at UNAPE (National Union of Popular Artists of Ecuador).
Expertise
Sexual and Reproductive Health, Social Work
María Gabriela Paz Jaramillo
Co-founder of the AquaAyuda Foundation
Ecuador
Bio
María Gabriela Paz Jaramillo is a young woman of 23 years old, a lawyer by profession, and an activist for the human rights of minority groups and the rights of nature in Ecuador. She is passionate about research and the fight for social justice.
She is a member of the collective for patients with rare, orphan, and catastrophic diseases and is a co-founder of the AquaAyuda Foundation, which aims to reduce the socio-economic gap in access to mental health care.
She is also a member of ANKU, an environmentalist collective, and serves as the cantonal sub-coordinator of the Loja chapter of the Global Youth Politicians Network. In 2023, she received a scholarship from the Leaders and Leadership School (INREDH).
She is the coordinator of the virtual classroom at the Center for Human Rights at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador. She has conducted research on the defense of the rights of priority attention groups, such as women, children and adolescents, incarcerated individuals, and extremely impoverished social groups.
She has also participated as an amicus curiae before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the Constitutional Court of Ecuador.
Expertise
Mental Health, Activism, Human Rights
Naomi Juliet Izquierdo Franco
Bachelor's degree in general psychology
Ecuador
Bio
Psychology is one of the most undervalued professions in Latin America. Personally, I have dedicated months of my life to evaluate society from an objective standpoint, trying to understand the reasons behind each of its behaviors. During my academic training, I was able to grasp many things, such as why inexplicable reactions occur in people we believe we've known forever. This profession, which allows for development in various fields like forensic, social, educational, and clinical, is a branch that grants access to a broad knowledge base.
As I've built my path as a professional, I have developed a theoretical work centered on the educational potential that psychologists could harness—a set of strategies that could be applied within homes and classrooms for children experiencing non-specific learning disorders. These methods are not only useful for students but also for parents, family members, and the teachers responsible for them. They aim to provide guidance on how to stimulate and develop a child's weaker areas.
Furthermore, I am part of a practical project that aims to train leaders at a national level and promote social work among young people seeking a common good—assisting others. "Vivo Joven" has opened up many avenues towards knowledge and social assistance.
Expertise
Teaching and Training, Mental Health
Paola Nicole Esparza Jaramillo
A student of medicine at the Catholic University of Cuenca.
Ecuador
Bio
My name is Paola Esparza, and I was born in the majestic Ecuadorian Amazon in the city of Zamora. I am 22 years old, and I am currently studying Medicine at the Catholic University of Cuenca. Since childhood, I have firmly believed in the power of youth.
I have previously excelled in oratory and poetry competitions and received a scholarship in 2017 as a Young Ambassador in the United States sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. I am passionate about volunteering in my community and abroad. I had the opportunity to collaborate at a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center in Fortaleza, Brazil, and recently, I secured third place in the "We Have a Dream" competition sponsored by One Young World, representing the only participant from Latin America.
I am a person committed to the cause, always seeking to promote the development of my city, especially in the fields of education and health. I consider myself capable of achieving any goal I set for myself, overcoming the fears that surround me as a human being on a daily basis. I love working in teams and am always willing to provide assistance in any way possible, guided by knowledge, commitment, and respect.
Rossie Noelya Franco Tigrero
Part of the leadership of Young UNASUR
Ecuador
Bio
The story of Rossie Noelya Franco Tigrero is an inspiring journey of empowerment and activism that has left a profound mark on the landscape of human rights and gender equality in Ecuador and beyond. Born in the picturesque city of Salinas, her life has been dedicated to the fight for justice and equity.
From her early years, Rossie showed a passionate interest in social and political issues. Her commitment became evident during her time as a student, where her leadership led her to the position of president of the National Association of Secondary Students (ANDES). In this role, Rossie began to pave her way in promoting the rights and voices of young people, laying the foundation for her future activism.
Rossie's dedication and commitment to the cause led her to become part of the leadership of Young UNASUR, where she had the opportunity to collaborate in a regional context to drive social change. However, her influence extended beyond the borders of her continent, as Rossie also played a crucial role as the former Vice President of the National Association for the United Nations and Human Rights in Ecuador. In this role, she became a respected voice in the defense of fundamental principles of dignity and equity for all.
Rossie's tireless pursuit of a fairer world also manifested in her role as a former mayoral candidate in Salinas. Although she did not win the electoral victory, her courageous stance and proposals inspired many, and her campaign became a symbol of hope and change in her community. Rossie Noelya Franco Tigrero has excelled as the National Coordinator of Youth For Hope, a platform that reflects her unwavering determination to build a better future for all. Her commitment will be further reinforced on an international level as she assumed the role of Ambassador for the International Circle of Young Speakers in Ecuador, taking her message of equality and empowerment to a global stage.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Rossie's life and mission is her dedication to feminism and the fight for women's rights. Her brave leadership in this area has been a beacon of hope for those seeking a world where all voices are heard, and gender equality is a tangible reality.
Despite her numerous achievements and leadership roles, Rossie Noelya Franco Tigrero remains a young woman with a bold dream: to transform her country and the world into a place of equality, justice, and respect for all. Her story is a testament to the strength and impact that a committed individual can have in creating significant and lasting change. Undoubtedly, Rossie will continue to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for present and future generations.
Expertise
Activism, Women's Rights, Law
Samay Alexandra Rea Tualombo
In the school focused on eco-tourism activities, organic fertilizer production, and research projects on water conservation and the threat of agricultural expansion
Ecuador
Bio
My name is Samay Rea. I am a young indigenous member of the Tagma San José community, where I have stood out for actively participating in various fields. From a very young age, my role model has been my father, who is an ecological guide, and he has inspired me to care for nature and the life that inhabits it. I have taken part in various gatherings that have ignited my desire to motivate more young people to care for life.
At the age of 18, I believe it is crucial to take action and make a difference. Since I have been attending the school focused on eco-tourism activities, the production of organic fertilizer, and research projects related to water conservation and the threat posed by agricultural expansion, I have become even more passionate about making positive changes. I am very proud to be part of the young generation that is working towards change in our Ecuador and paving the way for more indigenous women.
Sebastian Habeger Pilla Quinchiguango
President of the Consultative Youth Council of Santa Cruz
Ecuador
Bio
Sebastian Habeger Pilla Quinchiguango, a young indigenous resident of the Galápagos Islands, a cultural facilitator, experiential educator at the ECOS Foundation, President of the Consultative Youth Council of Santa Cruz, and passionate about the community development of my island.
Throughout my life, I have had the opportunity to participate in various youth advocacy spaces, generating projects with a focus on social, cultural, and environmental issues. I have also served as a consultant for the implementation of youth actions in the community, conducting activities such as leadership workshops, revitalization of community spaces, coastal cleanups, youth empowerment activities, among others. All of these efforts are aimed at inspiring more young people, like myself, to take action on the various challenges that arise in our territory and work towards the sustainability of the archipelago.
In my activities over the past 4 years, I have been able to collaborate directly with government institutions and NGOs, working alongside the Ministry of Education, the Secretariat of Human Rights, the Galapagos Government Council, the Municipality of Santa Cruz, the Ministry of Inclusion, German Technical Cooperation, the Ecuadorian Cultural House, the University of Cambridge, the Esquel Foundation, the Charles Darwin Foundation, the One Change for Life Foundation, the ECOS Foundation, the Galápagos Conservancy, the Galapagos National Park, and others. Additionally, I am a promoter of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Galápagos Islands and have expertise in education, science, culture, and research-related topics.
Expertise
Sustainable Development, Teaching and Training, Activism
Vinicio Abelardo Narankas Pirucha
President of the Consultative Youth Council of Santa Cruz
Ecuador
Bio
My name is Vinicio Narankas, and I belong to the Shuar nationality. I am 26 years old and live in the Tsakimp community in the province of Orellana. I am the third child in my family; we are three brothers and I have two sisters. My parents always instilled values in us, such as respect, punctuality, honesty, and love for life.
My community has 32 members and 250 inhabitants. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Intercultural Bilingual Education Sciences at the Salesian Polytechnic University. I work as a teacher at the Bilingual Fiscally Commissioned School Monseñor Luis Alberto Luna Tobar, where I teach students from grades 11 to 33.
I consider myself a young indigenous person who loves to care for and protect the Earth (Nunka ii nukury), which is life itself. Since January 2021, I have been a part of the Indigenous School of Political, Social, and Ecological Training "Achakaspi Bula," sponsored by the Vicariate of Aguarico and FLACSO.
Expertise
Teaching and Training
Programme Sponsors 2023
