Ana María Velasquez

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT ANA MARÍA VELASQUEZ

I am a seasoned international development and non-profit leader with experience managing complex programs, cross-cultural teams, and multi-stakeholder initiatives across Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond. Deeply committed to fostering social change and empowering disadvantaged communities, I have a proven track record of delivering impactful results in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a Volunteer Mobilization Advisor and member of the Program Development Strategy and Innovation team at Cuso International, I have successfully led the recruitment, placement, and management of skilled volunteers, ensuring their contributions drive meaningful change in diverse sectors such as economic development, gender equality, and innovation. My role has required strong managerial skills, including strategic planning, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement, to align volunteer efforts with organizational goals and community needs. I bring expertise in proposal development, grant writing, and project coordination, having secured critical funding from prestigious donors such as Global Affairs Canada, the World Bank, and FCDO. My ability to design and implement robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks has enabled me to track progress, demonstrate impact, and adapt strategies for maximum effectiveness. Fluent in English and Spanish, with medium proficiency in French, I hold a Master’s in Development Practices from the University of Waterloo. My holistic approach to development integrates economic empowerment, gender inclusion, and innovative solutions to address systemic challenges and drive sustainable growth.