• Social Innovation Fellowship
Santiago
Alban

Concentration 

MPA

Award Year 

2014
Wiñak Chocolate

Ecuadorian rainforest

This is a project based in Ecuador, in the foothills of the Andes, the watershed of the Amazon region, working specifically with a network of 29 Kichwa indigenous communities growing some of the best cacao in the world, in the province of Napo. The guiding objective of this project is, in collaboration with community leaders and stakeholders, to identify and create shared value for members of the Wiñak Association through the harvest of locally grown cacao beans (as well as other raw materials like coffee and traditional healing plants). Ecotourism is an additional opportunity for these communities, with tourists acting as stewards by investing their time, talent and treasure, thus marginalizing the intermediary and creating additional value for the local growers and their families.

I was admitted to practice law in 2010 with a minor degree in Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods (Universidad San Francisco de Quito). Other work experience includes the Attorney General’s Office, Quito City Hall, and private law firms. I am an active member of the Global Shapers Community (World Economic Forum) and a Global Competitiveness and Leadership Alumnus (Georgetown University). I am also fluent in Spanish, English, French and Portuguese.

Currently I am pursuing a Master's in Public Affairs at Brown and working to improve the quality of indigenous people in Ecuador through a social venture that will produce gourmet chocolate. I am truly committed to my country and my people. 

LinkedIn 

Taubman Fellow