Rockefeller Foundation Appoints Lyana Latorre as New VP for Latin America and Caribbean

The Rockefeller Foundation Strengthens Its Commitment to Latin America and the Caribbean

On January 14, 2025, the Rockefeller Foundation introduced Lyana Latorre as the new Vice President heading its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). This marks a significant return of the foundation to the region after two decades, as it seeks to advance its mission of enhancing human well-being through sustainable solutions.

Latorre, who will operate from Bogotá, Colombia, aims to catalyze impactful initiatives across Latin America by collaborating closely with leaders and stakeholders in the area. Elizabeth Yee, the Foundation's Executive Vice President for Programs, expressed enthusiasm about Latorre's appointment, noting that it would reinforce their collective voice in the Global South, particularly in addressing pressing climate challenges.

With over 28 years of experience in investment banking and social impact, Latorre comes well-equipped for her role. Prior to joining the Rockefeller Foundation, she spent 8 years at Arcos Dorados, the leading franchise of McDonald's in the region. Her remarkable efforts in corporate social engagement helped expand the Ronald McDonald House Charities' influence from 21 programs to 63. Her pivotal role in developing a youth employment strategy that gained global recognition within McDonald's Corporation showcases her dedication to creating meaningful employment opportunities for young people.

Latorre’s professional journey began in investment banking at Bank Boston-Robertson Stephens in Boston and later with Nortel Networks in San Francisco. Returning to Colombia, she has demonstrated her commitment to social impact by extensively volunteering for organizations like the Colombian Red Cross and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Furthering her dedication to improving lives, she currently serves on the board of Ayuda en Acción, a non-profit organization aimed at achieving social impact.

The Rockefeller Foundation has a long-standing history of investing in LAC, tracing back to its initial office set up in the 1930s. Focus areas included enhancing health services, advancing agriculture, and developing educational institutions. Although its physical presence waned in the early 2000s, the foundation maintained its commitment through ongoing projects in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico.

The decision to re-establish a LAC office comes at a crucial time, as the region grapples with intensifying climate change effects. Home to 669 million people across 33 diverse countries, LAC faces significant vulnerabilities, with extreme weather conditions already impacting livelihoods. The United Nations has reported that climate change threatens the lives and economic stability of 41 million residents in this area.

Despite these hurdles, LAC is endowed with unique natural assets, including 50% of the world’s biodiversity and critical minerals necessary for the transition to a green economy. The region stands to gain significantly from upcoming international platforms, such as the UN’s COP30 conference hosted in Brazil later this year, a timely opportunity for LAC to showcase its potential in tackling climate change.

In her new role, Latorre emphasizes the importance of partnership. She stated, “By building alliances with key players, we can amplify our impact in communities that stand to benefit the most. I am especially excited to leverage my experience in the region to foster innovative solutions.” Her leadership is poised to invigorate the Foundation’s legacy in Latin America and accelerate sustainable development initiatives aimed at combating climate change and promoting social equity.

For ongoing updates about these initiatives and more information on the work of the Rockefeller Foundation in Latin America, interested parties can check the Foundation’s official site and sign up for newsletters. Follow on social media to stay linked with outcomes of their dedication to promoting human well-being and environmental sustainability.