Shaping a Region’s Future at the Latin American Business Conference

May 27, 2026 - 18:22

Gerald Velasquez, a member of the class of 2026, recently shared his takeaways from the 2026 Latin American Business Conference, an event co-hosted by Harvard Business School and the MIT Sloan School of Management. The conference brought together students, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to discuss the economic and social trajectory of the region.

Velasquez noted that the discussions moved beyond standard business metrics, focusing instead on how innovation and policy can address long-standing structural challenges. Panels covered topics such as sustainable supply chains, digital inclusion, and the role of small and medium enterprises in driving local employment. One key theme was the need for cross-sector collaboration to build resilient economies that can withstand global volatility.

For Velasquez, the most valuable part of the event was the chance to hear directly from founders who are scaling solutions in areas like fintech and agribusiness. He said these conversations gave him a clearer picture of how young professionals can contribute to meaningful change in Latin America. The conference also emphasized the importance of regional identity in shaping business strategies, rather than simply importing models from other parts of the world.

Attending the conference reinforced Velasquez's interest in working on projects that connect capital with community needs. He described the experience as a reminder that the future of the region depends not just on economic growth, but on inclusive and thoughtful leadership.