The True Value of Forests: insights from South America
In Manaus, Brazil, 30 leading experts from five Amazonian countries gathered for the “Wyss Academy Dialogues on the True Value of Forests,” bringing over 900 years of collective experience to the table. The event revealed the multifaceted significance of the Amazon, extending beyond its impact in biodiversity and climate regulation. The dialogues also recognised the Indigenous peoples’ deep-rooted connection to the forest, highlighting the need for their inclusion in conservation efforts.
Environmental Champions: Restoring Colombia’s ecosystems and empowering communities
Impact Hub Medellín proudly supports innovative social enterprises committed to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. Among their distinguished members are Amazonía Emprende and Samaná, two enterprises that exemplify their mission. These organisations focus on forest conservation and ecosystem restoration in Colombia, each bringing unique solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
Arkangel AI: Revolutionising healthcare with artificial intelligence
Arkangel AI is transforming the healthcare sector through innovative AI models. By enhancing access to early diagnosis and expediting the adoption of new technologies, Arkangel AI aims to reduce health disparities in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Their work, now implemented in over 300 hospitals across 18 countries, positively impacts millions by optimising healthcare processes and facilitating digital transformation.
Energía Vectorial: Pioneering electric vehicle transformation in Latin America
Energía Vectorial, a member of Impact Hub Medellín since 2019, is revolutionising urban mobility in Latin America with innovative electric vehicle (EV) conversion technologies. By converting internal combustion engine vehicles into electric vehicles, Energía Vectorial targets commercial fleets to significantly reduce urban pollution and operational costs. Their work extends vehicle life, aligns with sustainable development goals, and promotes cleaner city environments, making a profound impact on local communities.
Instituto +58: Empowering Venezuelan immigrants in Brasília
Instituto +58 is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the socio-economic and cultural integration of vulnerable Venezuelan refugees in Brasília, Brazil. By focusing on labour insertion and sociocultural support, Instituto +58 empowers Venezuelan immigrants, providing them with the tools for a self-sufficient life. Their comprehensive assistance includes legal documentation, healthcare access, social support, and skill-building programmes.
VerdeNovo: Sowing seeds of change in the Cerrado
Bárbara’s business, VerdeNovo, enhances the conservation efforts of the Cerrado by focusing on the collection and commercialisation of native seeds for the restoration of degraded areas. Based in Brasília, VerdeNovo offers over 150 species, including Ipê-verde and Jacarandá, and provides consultancy services. Through her startup, Bárbara aims to combat the impoverishment of those living in the Cerrado, ensuring both social and environmental sustainability.
Salto Aceleradora: empowering Black women entrepreneurs
The impactful journey of Salto Aceleradora, a programme dedicated to accelerating and supporting small businesses, particularly those led by Black women in Florianópolis and São Paulo.
Circularity in action: social projects in Caracas
Lata de Agua and Proyectos MAF are two remarkable Venezuelan initiatives that exemplify the principles of the circular economy. Both ventures showcase how creative thinking and disruptive solutions can bring positive change to longstanding issues while fostering community collaboration.
Three innovators tackling food supply chain challenges
Nilus, OpenSC, and Plenty are examples of three innovators reshaping the landscape of the food supply chain. Now more than ever, innovation is critical in addressing the challenges within the global food system.
Impact Hub Caracas: innovative education for the next generation
Change starts in the classroom, and Impact Hub Caracas stands at the forefront of this transformative journey. Their visionary approach seeks to revolutionise conventional education, ultimately shaping the future of countless children in their nation.
