Technology is rapidly evolving and innovation is key to business survival, so mentoring young specialists, entrepreneurship promotionand connecting technologies startups for a global network of experts and resources are essential.
Some IEEE volunteers do all of the above and more as part of IEEE Entrepreneurship Ambassador Program.
The program started in 2018 in IEEE Region 8 (Europe, Middle EastAnd Africa) thanks to a grant IEEE Foundation. Ambassadors organize networking events with industry representatives to help IEEE Young Professionals And student members realize your entrepreneurial endeavors and strengthen your technical, interpersonal and business skills. Ambassadors also organize pitch competitions in their geographic region.
The ambassadorial program started this year in Region 10 (Asia-Pacific region).
Last year the program was introduced in Region 9 (Latin America) with funding Tenzer Memorial Fund. The results of the first year of the program were impressive: 13 ambassadors organized events in Bolivia, BrazilColombia, Ecuador, MexicoPanama, Peruand Uruguay.
“The program is useful because it connects entrepreneurs with industry professionals, promotes mentoring, helps young professionals develop leadership qualitiesand creates opportunities for startup sponsorship,” says Susana Laudeputy chairman IEEE Entrepreneurship in Latin America. “The program has also been successful in recruiting IEEE volunteers to serve as ambassadors and help support entrepreneurship and startups.”
Lau, IEEE Senior Member, Past President IEEE Panama Section and active IEEE Women in Engineering volunteer.
People who participated in the Region 9 program say the experience changed their lives both personally and professionally.
Pedro Jose Pinedawhose work has been recognized by one of two Top Ambassador Awards in the region, says he has been able to “expand international collaboration and strengthen the innovation ecosystem in Latin America.
“This is more than an award,” says the IEEE member. “This is an opportunity to create global impact through local action.”
“This wonderful experience has opened new doors for my future career with IEEE both nationally and globally.”—Vitor Paiva
Another regional Top Ambassador award winner was Vitor Paiva Natal, Brazil. He had the opportunity to participate this year. IEEE Rising Stars in Las Vegas – his first international experience outside of Brazil.
After participating in the program, the IEEE student member volunteered on the regional marketing committee.
“I was proud to represent the Brazilian IEEE community while interacting with some of IEEE's most influential leaders,” Paiva, student Federal University of Rio Grande do Nortespeaks. “This wonderful experience has opened new doors for my future career with IEEE both nationally and globally.”
Expansion of the initiative
IEEE Foundation says it will invest in regional programs by funding grants awarded to regional competition winners, similar to funding for Region 9. The goal is to have a worldwide competition, Lau says.
The continued expansion is a testament to the program's efforts, he says. Christopher J. WrightSenior Manager of Programs and Management at the IEEE Foundation.
“I have had the pleasure of working on grants for IEEE Entrepreneurship The Ambassador program team has been around for many years,” says Wright, “and I am continually impressed by the team’s dedication and the program’s growth.”
To learn more about the program in your region or to apply to become an Ambassador, visit IEEE Entrepreneurship Website and find your region.
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