Continuation of Work at CIFAL/FIEP

Currently, we are still working on the project that is working to combat corruption in Latin America. And honestly the timing couldn’t have been more perfect, seeing as how the protests in Brazil are increasing in response to corruption. (p.s- the bus fares went down today because of them! From R 2,85 to 2,70). Last Thursday, I stayed for a long meeting which discussed the company’s upcoming international forum on anticorruption. We mainly discussed the structure of the event, the organizations attending, and the poster competition- or in other words, how to further engage our target audiences. The poster competition is for young adults that wish to engage in promoting anticorruption in this society. There are already cool posters out there which will give you an idea of what I'm talking about. (find these at: http://app.cpib.gov.sg/cpib_new/user/default.aspx?pgID=1314 )

In addition, we are working on a project with Argentina and an organization called IDB (Inter-American Development Bank) that focuses on Road Safety in Latin America. Death tolls from vehicle accidents are on the rise here, which is why this project is focusing toward reducing the amount and enforcing seminars for safety (seatbelts, speed, road signs/pavement, etc). 

In Argentina, they have an ongoing project called “Yellow Star”. Every time there is an accident with a motor vehicle involved, this campaign group will paint a yellow star in the spot where a death occurred, which in the long run will raise awareness and hopefully increase competence within drivers around the city.

Another interesting project currently in the “potential for the future” phase, is the potential of a partnership with an organization in Canada which focuses on cultural mapping in countries. The desired goal of this cultural mapping is to bring about tourism and to highlight the important aspects of unrecognized cities in certain countries. I still need to do further research about this project, but it is something that certainly pertains to my focus and interest. 

p.s- the IDB (Inter-American Development Bank) is an organization located in New York and Washington DC. This organization focuses on development in Latin America and the Caribbean. They hold events, promote donations and increase awareness to the general public and partner organizations that are able to aid in disasters or development in the relevant regions. 

This past week, I was able to call the IDB headquarters and talk to one of the representatives. It was an interesting experience, as I am so used to hearing Portuguese around me. I suddenly felt relieved to speak to an American on the phone, and more importantly, speak to someone who cares about such important matters. I am hoping to invest more research and time into the IDB and other similar organizations located in DC for next semester.