In April 2023, we were invited to speak at the Colombian Conference 2023. It wasn’t just another event but a melting pot of ideas. At this intellectual gathering, voices from various sectors converged to share experiences and brainstorm solutions for Colombia’s most pressing challenges. Held in the prestigious halls of the Medical School and the Center for Latin-America Studies at Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts, this annual event brought together universities, government bodies, businesses, communities, and nonprofit organizations, fostering an environment ripe for collaboration and innovation.
The 2023 conference centered its discussions on “Innovative Solutions for Colombia,” signaling more than a thematic focus. Instead, it served as a call to action, urging individuals from various sectors to actively propel Colombia towards a brighter future. This invitation extended beyond geographical boundaries, resonating with wider audiences invested in societal progress. The choice of Harvard University as the venue elevated the event’s stature, highlighting the importance of the topics discussed within Colombia and the academic and research communities in the U.S. This location underscored the importance of the issues addressed, emphasizing their relevance and significance on a broader scale. The conference signaled a commitment to fostering collaborative dialogue and innovative problem-solving approaches that transcend borders and disciplines by convening at this renowned institution.
More than a speaker
The spotlight was on us as we took the stage with our thought-provoking presentation titled “They Doesn’t Exit.” Far from being a mere typo, this clever phrase served as a deliberate linguistic twist, symbolizing the absence of barriers when pursuing dreams and seizing opportunities. It was a profound call to reject the limitations imposed by external factors and instead embrace the boundless potential inherent in every individual. Our intention was clear: to showcase our innovative strategy to foster economic development by facilitating social mobility via higher education.
During our presentation, we embarked on a storytelling journey, recounting the evolution of impactU’s initiatives in tackling the hurdles underprivileged students face in pursuing a college education. Through vivid imagery, revealing statistics, and inspiring anecdotes, we illustrated the transformative power that supporting a college student can wield not only in their own lives but also within their families and communities at large. Our presentation transcended mere information dissemination; it represented a call for collective action in reshaping the trajectories of countless lives. It invited individuals to join us in the noble endeavor of sculpting brighter futures and nurturing a more equitable society.
A unique combination of bright and innovative minds
We found ourselves joined by many nonprofit organizations, each lending their unique voice for social impact. Among them were Marcela Aragón Valencia, the Director of the Workshop School of Tumaco, Johana Bahamón, the founder of the Agencia Interna Foundation, and Carolina Amorocho and Yuliana Palacio, the duo behind the Coneducación Foundation. These remarkable individuals shared their thoughts and exciting projects, each adding to the lively mix of innovation with a strong emphasis on making a positive difference in society. Their stories served as a source of inspiration, illuminating the path forward with their innovative approaches.
The academic participants included researcher Yakeel T. Quiroz, an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School renowned for her research on Alzheimer’s disease, Pablo H. Vera-Salazar, who serves as the President of the University of Magdalena, and Camilo Younes-Velosa, the Vice-President of Research at the National University of Colombia, celebrated for his contributions to advancing knowledge. Their profound insights not only enhanced the intellectual discourse of the conference but also provided a deeper understanding of the critical roles that research and education play in developing and implementing innovative solutions. Their expertise shed light on the intricate processes involved in crafting effective strategies to address complex societal challenges, underscoring academia’s indispensable role in driving progress and fostering positive change on a grand scale.
In business, the conference welcomed renowned speakers such as Juan Jose Zuluaga, President and Founder of the Tech Innovation Group and a serial entrepreneur, and Christian Daes, accomplished COO of Tecnoglass, highly respected for his industry expertise and for building a very successful business with a global footprint. Their captivating narratives and innovative strategies illuminated the symbiotic relationship between business success and societal progress and underscored the profound impact of private enterprise in driving innovation and social advancement. Through their compelling stories and insightful approaches, they highlighted the transformative potential of businesses in catalyzing positive change and fostering economic growth while simultaneously addressing pressing social issues.
Lastly, some government officials were speaking at the event: Francisco Roberto Barbosa Delgado, the Colombian Attorney General of Colombia; Luis Alberto Murillo, the Colombian Ambassador to the U.S.; and Mauricio Gómez, Colombian Senator. Their active involvement underscored the imperative of collaborative efforts across all sectors, as government participation complemented the contributions of nonprofit organizations, academia, and business. By joining forces with these key stakeholders, government officials reinforced a unified front for progress, fostering an environment conducive to meaningful change. Their commitment inspired hope and instilled confidence in Colombia’s journey towards a brighter, more inclusive future.
An exchange of ideas and experiences
The conference transcended its role as a mere series of presentations. It became a marketplace of ideas, teeming with energy and enthusiasm. Attendees were immersed in an environment where engagement, shared experiences, and collective brainstorming were encouraged and celebrated. It served as a poignant reminder that innovation thrives not in isolation but through the interplay of diverse perspectives and insights. It underscored the notion that pursuing progress is not a solitary endeavor but a collaborative forum where individuals from various backgrounds and disciplines share their ideas and visions. This gathering represented a perfect example of the power of collective intelligence, where the collaboration of minds ignites sparks of inspiration and propels the journey toward meaningful and enduring change.
For us, being part of the Colombian Conference 2023 was more than a speaking engagement; it was a chance to sow the seeds of innovation to inspire change at a grassroots level. The event showcased the power of collaboration, where nonprofits, academics, businesses, and government entities united in their commitment to crafting innovative solutions for Colombia’s challenges. The conference wasn’t just a moment in time. It was a promise of a brighter future, nurtured by the collective determination of those who believe in the transformative power of ideas.
