Leadership Team

Reason for living in London:

I've been living in London since 2001. First it was love that brought me to this country; then I discovered my passion for Latin American Development and Social Transformation. I decided to stay, making London my base for the global expansion of Discovering Latin America.

Reason for joining DLA:

A strong desire to transform Latin America; particularly the levels of poverty, inequality and exclusion experienced in the region at the present time. I started Discovering Latin America because I wanted to create a community of individuals (Latin Americans and non-Latin Americans) not only interested in Latin American culture, arts and creative talent; but also passionate about social transformation.

What you like the most about Latin America:

Mainly the rich and diverse culture of this region, as well as its human capital.

Reason for living in London:

My British family.

Reason for joining DLA:

Once you are away from your country, suddenly what you left behind seems more valuable. Being in a new culture with a different language and traditions is a great challenge and on my journey I found beautiful people and a lot of opportunities. I wanted to give a little bit of me and my culture back. Then I found this amazing charity which offered the opportunity to share our diversity with the UK and raise funds for the most needy in Latin America - I did not think twice. Discovering Latin America has offered me the opportunity to grow as a person, grow professionally, learn more about each country of Latin America and make great friends!

What you like the most about Latin America:

Its people, how happy and relaxed we are. The food, especially "humitas" a traditional food made with corn and even better with a black coffee. The music, salsa especially; when we dance, we dance like there is no tomorrow!

Reason for living in London:

I came to London to be with my other half.

Reason for joining DLA:

I wanted to take an active role in Latin American cultural and social activities. Having been the Director of various theatres in Colombia, I was very much involved in promoting national and international artists, especially Latin American talent. Now that I am in London I think it is essential that Latin American culture is promoted while contributing to a charitable cause.

What you like the most about Latin America:

I love the people, their spirit and the diversity of cultures.

Reason for living in London:

To break into Arts Management, I think London is one of the best places in the world to change your professional path. I also love its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Reason for joining DLA:

I wanted to work in cultural event organization and to develop new experiences and skills.

What you like the most about Latin America:

Diversity in the countries and ethnic composition. I would like to encourage everyone to contact us. Whether you are interested in culture, development, have a personal project you think it might work out within DLA or just want to make new friends and have a good time.

Reason for living in London:

Career and social opportunities.

Reason for joining DLA:

In 1999 I worked as a volunteer in the town hall of Quinchia, Risaralda Colombia, helping them to avoid any 'year 2000' problems with their computer systems. That same year I traveled - mostly by land - from Cartagena to Buenos Aires, via Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina, and particularly enjoyed seeing La Cuidad Perdida in the far north of Colombia, nightclubs in Cali, the sights of the altiplano and the Atacama desert, and tango in BA. At the same time I were made more acutely aware than ever before of the inequalities of wealth and privilege between the North and South hemispheres, and how hard-working but happy people can be even with relatively little prosperity and security. I saw the opportunity to combine my practical and organisational skills with my enthusiasm for Latin America arts and lifestyle in a way that contributes to good causes in the region.

What you like the most about Latin America:

My passion for Latin American culture, especially its music and food, and strong personal ties to Colombia in particular. I particularly like Ruben Blades, Marc Anthony, my mother-in-law's mondongo and brevas with cheese.

Reason for living in London:

This wonderful city is my hometown!

Reason for joining DLA:

I have always had a Latin American influence in my life since as long as I can remember, and I wanted to be part of something that promotes Latin American culture but at the same time is actively trying to combat the inequality and poverty out there.  I feel a lot of warmth for Latin America and DLA is a great way for me to express this.  I have met some really fantastic people through DLA, not just from Latin America, but all over the world.

What you like the most about Latin America:

The enthusiasm, energy and positivity that Latin American people and cultures bring to my life.  There is nothing like a bit of Cuban rhythm on my i-pod when walking to work on a cold, grey winter's day in London!