Westminster alumna named Young Leader of the Americas by the U.S Department of State

The Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative was launched in 2015, and empowers the emerging business and social entrepreneurs from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada and the United Stares to recognise the full economic potential of the region’s citizens. It encourages job creation, increases trade, and builds lasting and sustainable networks.

The initiative combines an annual fellowship, an active online network, and activities organised by the U.S Embassies and Consulates to further promote prosperity, inclusive development, and democratic values. Additionally, they address the opportunity gap for young people, and equip them with the knowledge to transform their societies.

Maria del Pilar Aristizabal Pineda was named as a Young Leader of the Americas, with her social business selected to be connected with Canadian and U.S business to grow commercial ties. 

The University of Westminster spoke to Maria about her fellowship.

What does your social business entail?

We support young people to unblock their potential, skills and empowerment to be the leaders.  

How did you come across this opportunity, and what was the selection process like for this role?

I got to know one of the Young Leader of America Fellows some years ago, she told me about the priceless experience she has, and she invited me to apply so I did it.  The selection process holds different steps which includes essays, business assignments, and interviews. There are limited spots per country. 

How does it feel to be selected by the U.S State Department as a Young Leader of the Americas?

It feels awesome, I recall the day they told me I was selected: it was my 25th birthday, I was having lunch with my friends when I received the video-call. Two people were smiling and took a second to say “Congratulations, you were selected as a YLAI fellow!” I yelled! I was so happy, I couldn't believe it was the exact day of my birthday; that made it even more special.

So far since we have started the program, we have had some virtual meetings and got to know the amazing, talented professors we will have access to. It seems like we will be gaining tons of experience from people who have been in the social impact field for a long time.

How did the University of Westminster help you to achieve this role?

I was the only Latin woman in my masters. Somehow, I felt like I was the ambassador of my culture. The University of Westminster provided me with international space to grow my social business.  I applied for the 125 fund within the University, which turned out to grant Life Academy, the NGO I founded.  That brought to life the possibility to give Westminster’s students access to our membership of personal development workshops.

Being able to give international students the chance to unlock their potential had a significant impact on the process to understand that even though I am from Latin America, the impact I can generate is not limited by location. 

What does this role entail, and what responsibilities do you now hold?

The YLAI Fellowship Program is an annual exchange program for 280 young business and social entrepreneurs from 37 countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada, who are matched with businesses and organizations across the United States. In addition to entrepreneurial leadership training, YLAI Fellows build new skills, share best practices, and forge commercial ties.

We will gain new perspectives, experiences and knowledge about how to enrich our social business practices, thus we can impact our own clients, beneficiaries and communities with effective strategies when we come back. 

Find out more about Business and Management courses at Westminster.