Go Expand Room
16:15 pm to 17:15 pm
This panel aims to foster a strategic conversation on how international collaboration and innovation diplomacy can strengthen relations between Canada and Latin America. The discussion will focus on identifying the technology sectors driving growth across the region — including artificial intelligence, clean energy, biotechnology, and creative industries — and exploring how these advancements can contribute to economic and technological development in both regions.
Speakers will also address the mobility of talent and knowledge exchange, both physical and virtual, as key opportunities to build sustainable partnerships. The participation of the Web Summit will provide a global perspective on how international platforms can connect Latin America’s emerging innovation ecosystems to the global stage, amplifying their visibility and impact within the digital economy.
Deputy Consul General of Brazil in Vancouver, Flávio Marcílio Moreira Sapha is a Brazilian career diplomat with 28 years of service. He has served abroad at the Brazilian Consulates General in Tokyo and Sydney, as well as at the Embassies of Brazil in Moscow and Belgrade. With a background in Law, he has built solid expertise across consular, political, and economic affairs. Recently arrived in Vancouver, alongside Deputy Consul General Jullio Laranjeiras, he was appointed as the Head of the Trade Promotion Section and the Science, Technology, and Innovation Section.
Is a Colombian diplomat with over 23 years of service at the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he has worked in the areas of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, consular affairs, culture, planning, and management control.
He has served as Consul General, Minister Counselor, and Deputy Permanent Representative to multilateral organizations such as UNEP, UNIDO, UNODC, the OAS, and the IAEA, in addition to serving as Chargé d'Affaires in various missions. A dedicated academic, he has taught at universities such as Externado, Javeriana, Nacional, and Rosario. He holds four master's degrees in international relations, management, political science, and global security, and is a certified interpreter in French, German, and Polish.
Deputy Consul of Argentina in Vancouver, Canada. Argentine career diplomat since 2016, with an academic background in International Relations, Political Science, and Development & Social Rights. I have taught at universities in Argentina, Venezuela, and El Salvador, sharing my passion for international affairs and global cooperation. I have represented Argentina in various multilateral forums, including the UNFCCC, OECD, the Escazú Agreement, and the FAO.
Consul General of Chile in Vancouver and Western Canada, Allan Najum is a Chilean career diplomat with 27 years of service. He has served abroad at the Chilean embassies in Israel and Finland concurrently accredited to Estonia and fulfilled studies in the US and Malaysia. Holds an MA in government with a specialization in cybersecurity. He has given lectures on scientific diplomacy.
He has worked as Head of Aeronautics, Telecommunication and Space Affairs and his previous position was Director for Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Canadian Deputy Country Manager at Web Summit and Strategic Growth Consultant, recognized for connecting technology, entrepreneurship, and investment to drive innovation and shape Canada’s tech ecosystem.
A Lawyer and MBA with over 25 years of professional experience — including two decades in senior executive roles across government, the private sector, and entrepreneurial ventures — he brings a unique blend of legal, strategic, and business expertise.
Recognized for his skill in business analysis, cross-cultural negotiation, and international market development, he has successfully led initiatives that foster growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability. Fluent in English and Spanish, he is known as a trusted leader who builds strong partnerships, drives organizational performance, and implements forward-thinking strategies that bridge sectors and create lasting economic and social impact.
