VOICES
OF IMPACT.
INNOVATE. INSPIRE. TRANSFORM.
At BeNeXT Global, our participants are the heart of our mission. “Voices of Impact” showcases the incredible journeys and achievements of our alumni. These individuals have harnessed the power of our innovative programs to lead projects with global significance and local impact. From startup founders to social innovators and artists, their stories exemplify the transformative potential of education and mentorship. Engage with their experiences through compelling bios and insightful videos, and discover how they are leading change across diverse fields and industries. Join our community, and let their stories inspire your path to impact.
A SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION AND IMPACT:
BeNeXT GLOBAL ON TVN PANAMA
In a significant highlight, we were featured on TVN, the largest television network in Panama, akin to Good Morning America in the United States. This extended segment showcased our work and programs, highlighting the remarkable achievements of our alumni. The national morning show provided an incredible platform to share our mission of transforming education and fostering innovation. The enthusiastic response from viewers underscored the impact of our initiatives and the growing recognition of BeNeXT Global as a leader in social entrepreneurship and professional development across the Americas. This media exposure not only amplifies our reach but also inspires countless individuals to join our journey of making meaningful change.
DIEGO GORDON
PANAMA
Diego Gordon from Panama is a testament to the transformative power of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. As a participant in the Science & Engineering Las Americas track, Diego demonstrated his passion and aptitude for technology and finance. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Management Information Systems and Finance at Florida State University. Diego’s journey with BeNeXT Global has equipped him with the skills to innovate and lead in his field, and he continues to inspire future generations through his active involvement with the organization.
DIEGO HERNANDEZ
PANAMA
Diego Hernandez from Panama is an exemplar of the impactful reach of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. As a participant in the Music Las Americas track at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Diego has showcased his exceptional musical talent and innovative thinking. During the pandemic, he interned for BeNeXT Global, gaining valuable experience and contributing to our mission. Diego continues to inspire through his artistic endeavors and remains an active member of the BeNeXT Global community, driving positive change and fostering creativity.
PIERINA DIANA
VENEZUELA
Pierina Diana, hailing from Venezuela, is a shining example of the transformative power of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. Nominated to participate in the Startup Las Americas track at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Pierina has distinguished herself as a visionary leader and innovator. With a passion for social entrepreneurship and a commitment to driving meaningful change, Pierina has leveraged her experience at Futuro Las Americas to develop impactful projects that address pressing challenges in her home country and beyond. She remains actively engaged with BeNeXT Global, contributing to our mission and inspiring future generations of leaders and innovators.
NESTOR GAYTAN
MEXICO
Nestor Gaytán, a distinguished graduate of Tec de Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico, exemplifies the impact of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. Selected for the Startup Las Americas track at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Nestor has showcased remarkable leadership and innovative thinking. Currently working with CEMEX on their social impact team, he leverages his Futuro Las Americas experience to drive initiatives that foster community development and sustainable growth. Nestor remains an active contributor to BeNeXT Global, continually inspiring future leaders and innovators.
MARIA ALEXANDRA SHEPPARD
PANAMA
Maria Alexandra Sheppard from Panama exemplifies the transformative potential of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. As a participant in the Startup Las Americas track, she showcased her leadership and innovative spirit. Currently, Maria Alexandra is an undergraduate at the University of Notre Dame in the USA, where she studies Neuroscience and Behavior and is a Mary E. Galvin Science and Engineering Scholar. Serving as the Chair of our Board of Advisors from 2019 to 2020, she played a crucial role in guiding our organization. Maria Alexandra remains an active contributor, inspiring and mentoring future generations of leaders.
MARIA SOFIA
PANAMA
Maria Sofia from Panama is a shining example of the talent nurtured by BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. As a participant in the Science & Engineering Track, she showcased her dedication and passion for medicine. Her journey through the program has equipped her with the skills and knowledge to drive impactful medical innovations. Maria Sofia remains actively engaged with BeNeXT Global, continually contributing to our mission and inspiring future generations of leaders in the medical field.
LAURA MILLER
COLOMBIA
Laura Miller, originally from Colombia and now residing in Panama, is a testament to the far-reaching influence of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. As a participant in the Startup Las Americas track at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Laura has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and leadership. Her experience has equipped her with the skills to spearhead innovative projects that address critical issues in Latin America. Laura continues to actively engage with BeNeXT Global, contributing to our mission and inspiring new generations of visionaries and changemakers.
FELIPE ELETA
PANAMA
Felipe Eleta from Panama is a standout alum of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program, having participated in the Startup Las Americas track. A graduate of Florida State University, Felipe earned his bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Management. His academic background and entrepreneurial spirit have been instrumental in his success. Felipe remains actively involved with BeNeXT Global, leveraging his skills and experience to mentor emerging leaders and contribute to impactful projects across the Americas.
JAVIER LEZCANO
PANAMA
Javier Lezcano from Panama embodies the innovative spirit fostered by BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. As a participant in the Startup Las Americas track, Javier demonstrated exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial skills. His experience in the program has equipped him with the tools to drive impactful projects and address pressing challenges in his community. Javier continues to engage with BeNeXT Global, contributing to our mission and inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders.
PAVEL OSORIO
PANAMA
Pavel Osorio, originally from Panama, exemplifies the artistic excellence fostered by BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. Nominated to participate in the Music Las Americas track at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Pavel is a passionate and talented musician with aspirations of becoming a world-renowned artist. His unique musical style aims to inspire and uplift others through the universal language of music. Pavel remains an active participant in BeNeXT Global, continuously contributing to our mission and embodying the transformative power of our programs.
CLAUDIA CONCEPCION
PANAMA
Claudia Concepción, originating from Panamá, embodies the impactful reach of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. Selected to join the Startup Las Americas track at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Claudia has demonstrated exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Her journey through the program has equipped her with the skills and vision to create transformative projects, aiming to inspire and uplift communities through innovative solutions. Claudia continues to be an active participant with BeNeXT Global, contributing to our mission and motivating future leaders and innovators.
RICARDO ADAMES
PANAMA
Ricardo Adames from Panama is a distinguished alumnus of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. Participating in the Startup Las Americas track, Ricardo showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset. His journey with BeNeXT Global has been marked by significant accomplishments in fostering social change and entrepreneurship. Ricardo continues to contribute to the mission of BeNeXT Global, inspiring future innovators and leaders through his active involvement and dedication to creating impactful projects in his community.
ALISTAIR COHL
MEXICO
Alistair Cohl from Mexico stands out as one of the most decorated and active alumni of BeNeXT Global’s Futuro Las Americas program. Participating in the Startup Las Americas track, Alistair has continuously demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment. He served as the Chair of our Board of Advisors from 2020 to 2021 and was re-appointed in 2024 to continue through 2025. Currently, Alistair heads the Latin American Site Expansion Committee for our globally respected Futuro Las Americas program. He is a graduate of Universidad Panamericana in CDMX with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and innovation and is currently a consultant in digital innovation for the esteemed management consulting firm Nextia in CDMX.
DIEGO GRACIA
MEXICO
Diego Gracia, hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, is a standout participant from BeNeXT Global’s Science and Engineering Las Americas track. Demonstrating a deep passion for scientific inquiry and engineering innovation, Diego has leveraged his experience with Futuro Las Americas to push the boundaries in his field. He continues to actively engage with BeNeXT Global, contributing to ongoing projects and inspiring his peers with his commitment to excellence and innovation. Diego’s journey epitomizes the transformative power of education and the potential for impactful scientific advancements.
MARIANA VLIEG
PANAMA
Mariana Vlieg, from Panama, is a distinguished alumna of BeNeXT Global’s Startup Las Americas and Theater Las Americas tracks. Serving as Vice Chair of our Board of Advisors from 2019 to 2020 and leading the Futuro Las Americas Scholars program in 2019, Mariana has consistently showcased her leadership and talent. A graduate of Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in Commercial Entrepreneurship, she is a visionary entrepreneur in the arts. Mariana has leveraged her entrepreneurial skills to excel as a performing artist, production specialist, and ballet dancer and choreographer. She has collaborated with esteemed organizations such as ENLACES, Fundación Espacio Creativo, Kaatsbaan Cultural Park, Academia de Danzas Steps, and Too Much Productions in Panama City, Panama, and New York City.
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