Inclusive Goverment Procurement

Language: English

About this Webinar

This webinar explores how certification programs and inclusive procurement practices have had a positive impact in the United States for LGBT Entrepreneurs and how we can apply these practices in Latin -America and the Caribbean.

The Webinar includes speakers from the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and the State of Maryland Inclusive Procurement Program as well as country case studies of the Dominican Republic and Uruguay.

Below, we invite you to meet the speakers and moderators of the seminars, as well as review the event agenda. At the bottom of the page, you can also watch the videos and download the slides for each session.

Speakers and moderators

Carola Pessino

IDB

As Principal Economist in the Fiscal Management Division of the IDB, she coordinates knowledge in fiscal policy and management, leading strengthening programs in the region. She holds a Master’s in Economics from the University of CEMA and both a Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. Previously, she served as Secretary of Fiscal Equity in Argentina, designing significant projects like the SINTyS system. She has taught at various universities and authored numerous academic papers on fiscal issues and equity in Latin America.

Jimmy Gonzales

Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic

President of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic, advocating for inclusive business and labor conditions, and empowering vulnerable communities by promoting employability and diversity. He also founded Leux Solutions, a strategic marketing company with over 10 years of experience in communication and social projects. Additionally, as a member of the Foundation of American Cultures, Jimmy supports the preservation of American and Taino cultural heritage through photography, publications, and documentaries.

Ariel Zaltsman

IDB

Sector Specialist in the Fiscal Management Division (FMM) of the IDB in the Dominican Republic. Previously, he served as project portfolio coordinator for FMM and as an operations advisor in the Institutions for Development department. He was also a research fellow in the IDB's Evaluation and Oversight Office. He has published works on results-based budgeting and monitoring systems in Latin America. He holds a degree and a Master's in Sociology, as well as a Ph.D. in Public Administration.

Adrian Russo

Chamber of Commerce and Business of Uruguay

Co-Founder and President of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Business of Uruguay. He also an entrepreneur and Vice President of the Montevideo Tourism Association which represents LGBT Tourism in Uruguay.

Anne-Marie Urban

IDB

Lead Specialist in Social Development in the Gender and Diversity Division of the IDB. Her work spans various sectors, supporting projects in rural development, social investment, violence prevention, infrastructure, reproductive health, and municipal development. She led the preparation and implementation of the IDB's Gender Action Plans. She holds a Master's in International Development from Clark University and previously worked at USAID before joining the IDB.

Casey Brent

Maryland Public Service Commission

Director of Consumer Affairs for the Maryland Public Service Commission, overseeing complaint processes, utility compliance, and the supplier diversity program. She advises Commissioner Odogwu "Obi" Linton. Previously, as special assistant to Baltimore’s Mayor, she led economic development initiatives generating $56M in impact. Casey holds a BA in Art History and Anthropology, an MA in Art Historical Studies, and an MSW in Management and Community Organizing. Recognized among Maryland's "50 Leading Women" in 2019, she also serves on multiple boards.

Leslie Harper

IDB

With over 20 years of experience in international development in Latin America and the Caribbean, she is an expert in public procurement reform and modernization. As the Gender and Diversity Focal Point for the Fiscal Management Division, she oversees portfolio monitoring and the integration of gender and diversity in fiscal projects. She has supported various countries in developing programs for women in public procurement and has led high-profile events and knowledge products to promote innovative trends in the field.

Justin G. Nelson

NGLCC

Co-Founder and President of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), advocating for the economic interests of LGBTQ+ individuals globally. He has established over 50 U.S. and 29 international affiliate chambers. Appointed to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Council on Underserved Communities, he promotes LGBTQ+-inclusive business practices and founded the National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC).