Discover the Voices of the IAIs Inter-American Network of STeP Fellows

Science diplomacy is transforming the way global challenges are addressed and the different generations of IAI STeP Fellows are proof of this. Since 2020, the IAI Center for Science Diplomacy's Science, Technology, and Policy (STEP) Fellowship program provides early-stage professionals with the skills needed to apply scientific knowledge in policy and decision making from a transdisciplinary perspective.  

Past and current STeP Fellows form an inter-American network with a track record at the science-policy interface that contributes to capacity building in IAI member countries. Through training with recognized experts, the fellows combine their scientific knowledge with experience in international collaborations, with the goal of bridging gaps in the adoption of evidence in decision making in the Americas.   

 The Center for Science Diplomacy plays a key role in facilitating relationships between different institutional actors and generating synergies for the application of knowledge in research, negotiation and communication of results. Case-based teaching allows STeP Fellows to understand and navigate complex dynamics through the use of practical tools with the goal of better serving their countries.  

In the following compilation of their testimonials, current and former STeP Fellows share how the IAI is shaping the future of the region and the world:   

Julian Campisi highlights how the  Center for Science Diplomacy provides essential tools for applying scientific knowledge to the diplomatic arena, facilitating communication with key actors who do not always have technical backgrounds.  

Luz Cumba García highlights the value of this program in bridging gaps between science and diplomacy in Latin America, generating synergies between complementary initiatives.  

Sebastián Riera highlights how the knowledge acquired is useful in various professional stages, from the design of applied research to the effective communication of results.  

Karen Vega Villa explains how organizations like the IAI amplify the voices of countries in the region, especially those with fewer resources, promoting key negotiations for regional well-being.  

Chante Saunders shares how this program broadened her horizons, preparing her to act on the global stage, even without prior experience in science diplomacy.  

Asif Iqbal emphasizes that the program's curriculum is applicable both professionally and in day-to-day negotiations, enabling her to understand and navigate complex dynamics to better serve society.  

Amancio Oliveira reflects on the fundamental role of the IAI’s Science Diplomacy Center in Latin America, promoting the international coordination and cooperation that the region needs.  

Gabriela Ferreira mentions how learning based on real Latin American and North American scenarios prepares them to apply practical skills in their future careers.  

Watch the videos at the following link 

These perspectives reflect the transformative impact of the STeP program and underscore its importance as a key driver for institutional strengthening and sustainability in the Americas. The IAI STeP fellows program continues to expand thanks to the support of the host countries, consolidating the strategic role of science diplomacy in the region.   

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