This week we are in Mexico where we met and asked a few questions to Alfredo Villalonga a Social Entrepreneur.
But what does exactly mean to be a Social Entrepreneur? Alfredo explains it clearly through his experience:
I studied physics engineering in Tec de Monterrey (graduated in 2006). Since 2007 I have been working in different areas of business development and entrepreneurship. I have co-founded several ventures like: South Hope, Impact Hub Monterrey, Festival de la Cerveza Monterrey, Almacén 42, Latinoamerica de Refrigeración, Beralsa and Metapatio. I have also been a mentor of more than 100 social projects that support more than 1,000 people in all these years.
Our projects have won international awards and we have given conferences in many places around the world with our testimony in social impact. In our projects I work in business development, strategy, commercial direction and fundraising.
Why did you join Work for Impact?
I think it is a perfect way to make a match between the skills of the people and the impact organizations. In my case, I have expertise in Business Development, Commercial Direction and Fundraising. So I will like to use my skills and time to support impact organizations achieve their missions. I think there is a lot of necessity in the world, and making this link between skills and organizations is a good way to support initiatives.
What motivates you?
To make a world where there is more social inclusion and economic development. I know that not all people have the same opportunities, and we need to build these bridges so all people can have them. We need to work a lot in sustainable development subjects so our efforts of today can bring a better reality in the future. To make an impact each day in my local and international context is what motivates me.
How would you contribute to make the world a better place?
Since 2007 I had been working on supporting people through entrepreneur programs, so they can develop these skills. I started with Social Tourism projects and then, in our organizations, we did entrepreneur programs for: people with disabilities, women, youth and migrants. Having great results and a lot of participation and engagement from the community. I’d like to help more people and organizations to upgrade their entrepreneurship skills, to support them create commercial decisions to make sustainable their project, and finally to support them making fundraising strategies to achieve their goals.
Favourite organisation?
Impact Hub, I like how they use international collaboration to solve local problems. There is a lot of knowledge around the world, and sharing the experience is a great way to inspire and find solutions with innovation.
Do you want to connect?
If you want to know more, connect with Alfredo at Work for Impact. If you want to share your story as a freelancer, you can reach us at stories@workforimpact.com.
About Work for Impact
Work for Impact connects impactful organizations with talented individuals who believe in working for the greater good. Click here to sign up and join a community committed to a new way of working.