AGENDA>> GLOBAL FORUM September 22-24, 2026
Yavitz Cypen Foundation
Building A More Inclusive World Together.
GLOBAL FORUM TABLE OF CONTENTS >> Letter from Anthony Kennedy Shriver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 3 Welcome to Panamá. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 Restaurant Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5 Important Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 6 Forum Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8 Agenda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16 Countries Attending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 23
Dear International Colleagues, I would like to personally welcome each of you to the 2026 Best Buddies International Global Staff Forum in Panama City, Panamá. I am excited to be joining you for this year's forum. This is an exciting time for Best Buddies International (BBI) as we continue to grow and expand our programs worldwide, always remaining motivated and positive. The world of Best Buddies is an exciting area to work in. We continue to meet and bring inspired people together in forums like this to ensure Best Buddies remains one of the most impactful global organizations. Over these next few days, you will connect with leaders, partners, and advocates from around the world to exchange ideas, learn from innovative practices, and explore new opportunities to advance inclusion. Through engaging sessions, interactive discussions, and shared experiences, the Global Forum is designed to unite our global community, amplify the voices and ideas shaping inclusion, and activate new partnerships and strategies that can strengthen our impact around the world. Before I close, I wish to thank each of you for attending our forum and bringing your expertise to our gathering. You, as organizational leaders, have the vision, the knowledge, the wherewithal, and the experience to help us pave our way into the future. You are our greatest asset today and tomorrow, and we could not accomplish what we do without your support and leadership. Throughout this conference, I ask you to stay engaged, keep us proactive and help us shape the future of Best Buddies. In friendship,
Anthony K. Shriver Founder & CEO, Best Buddies International
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GLOBAL FORUM
WELCOME TO PANAMÁ!
Welcome to Panama City, a vibrant crossroads of cultures, communities, and ideas. Known as the “Bridge of the World,” Panama connects North and South America and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, making it a fitting home for this year’s Global Forum. From its modern skyline and historic Casco Viejo to the iconic Panama Canal, the city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and innovation. We hope you enjoy Panama’s warm hospitality and that this remarkable setting inspires new ideas, relationships, and opportunities to continue advancing inclusion around the world.
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GLOBAL FORUM RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS >> RESTAURANT
LOCATION
CUISINE
PHONE
La Vespa Vistamare
Punta Pacífica - located right below/adjacent to the JW Marriott
Italian / Seafood
+507 6550-7232
Lima Nikkei
Punta Pacífica - located right below/adjacent to the JW Marriott
Peruvian-Japanese
Contact restaurant
Petit Paris Sur La Mer
Punta Pacífica - located right below/adjacent to the JW Marriott
French / International
+507 6550-7232
Ciao Bella
Punta Pacífica - located right below/adjacent to the JW Marriott
French / International
+507 6281-0756
Los Años Locos
San Francisco
Argentine / Steakhouse
+507 226-6966
Tomillo Steak House
San Francisco
Steakhouse / Grill
+507 6762-1862
Íntimo
San Francisco
Contemporary Panamanian
+507 830-5257
Cantina del Tigre
San Francisco
Contemporary Panamanian
+507 6436-6188
Azahar
Avenida Balboa — PH Yoo
Mediterranean / Seafood
+507 203-9856
Filomena
Avenida Balboa — PH Yoo
Italian / Seafood
+507 383-0822
Segundo Muelle
Avenida Balboa
Peruvian / Seafood
+507 6151-9000
Makoto
Obarrio
Japanese
+507 830-2736
Santa Rita
Casco Antiguo
Spanish / Argentine
+507 303-0991
Manolo Caracol
Casco Antiguo
Panamanian / Tasting Menu
Contact restaurant
Fonda Lo Que Hay
Casco Antiguo
Contemporary Panamanian
+507 6571-2843
PUNTA PACÍFICA
The restaurants listed under Punta Pacífica are independent restaurants located immediately below/adjacent to the JW Marriott. They are not operated by the hotel.
RESERVATION NOTE
For larger groups, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Please contact the restaurant directly to confirm availability, group size, and seating arrangements.
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GLOBAL FORUM IMPORTANT INFORMATION >> INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS TEAM:
Cary Ombres Jennifer Allen Lexie Appleby SVP, Global Mission VP, International Programs Senior Director, Impact & Engagement & Development International Programs & Development
Monica Moya Director, International Operations & Programs
Xochitl Carlos Mendez Deputy Director, International Jobs & Transitions
Emma Zagar Director, International Development
Roxana Cabaleiro Coordinator, International Operations
IMPORTANT NUMBERS: Cary Ombres, +1.407.433.9915 Jennifer Allen, +34.684.381.666 Lexie Appleby, +1.224.343.9583 Emma Zagar, +1.330.285.9399
Monica Moya, +1.954.736.7681 Xochitl Carlos Mendez, +1.906.280.1226 Roxana Cabaleiro, +1.305.450.2469 All Emergencies: 911
GETTING TO/FROM THE AIRPORT:
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The JW Marriott is approximately 20.6 miles / 33 km from the airport. The hotel does not provide complimentary airport shuttle service. Recommended: Use Uber or another authorized airport transportation service for the easiest transportation between PTY and the JW Marriott. Follow the pickup instructions provided in the Uber app after requesting your ride. Alternate Airport Transportation: Panama Luxury Limousine - fee: 50.00 USD (one way); Reservation Required: +507 -830-5890
GLOBAL FORUM IMPORTANT INFORMATION >> ONSITE TRANSPORTATION/PARKING: Transportation to all scheduled off-site Forum activities will be provided by chartered bus, including the Panama Canal private tour, Thursday program at the Country Club, and Closing Dinner at the Yacht Club. Departure times and pickup locations will be shared in the daily schedule. Please arrive on time, as buses will depart as scheduled. Independent travel outside of Forum-provided transportation: We recommend using a rideshare service such as Uber.
TRANSLATION SERVICES:
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English Spanish interpretation will be available during all Wednesday and Thursday Forum sessions. Translators will be located in a glass interpretation booth inside the meeting room. Attendees who need translation can pick up a headset at the translation table before or during sessions. If you do not need translation for a particular session, please return your headset to the translation table so it can be used by another attendee.
OFFICE HOURS: There are time slots on Wednesday/Thursday to book individual meetings with our guest speakers and IPD staff. Use the following link to book your times: Global Forum 2026
ATTIRE: Welcome Reception: Smart Casual Wednesday & Thursday Forum Sessions: Business Attire Panama Canal Tour: Smart Casual + Closed-Toe Shoes Global Forum Closing Dinner: Smart Casual
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GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Vivian Fernandez De Torrijos
Vivian Fernandez de Torrijos has devoted her professional life to advancing the inclusion, dignity, and human rights of people with disabilities and their families. Her commitment was deeply shaped by her experience as a mother of a daughter with a disability and has evolved into a lifelong mission of advocacy and leadership. As First Lady of Panama, she championed significant advances in disabilitiy inclusion, pubic policy, accessibility, and inclusive education. Her leadership also extended internationally through UNICEF and the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, where she served as an Expert Commisioner and Vice President of the Working Group on Women and Girls with Disabilities. As Founder and President of Best Buddies Panama, Vivian has hlped expand opportunities for people with intellectula and developmental disabilities through inclusive friendships, school and community programs, leadership development, and integrated employment. Through her continued leadership, Best Buddies has become a platform for creating meaningful connections, opening doors to greater independence, and fostering a culture of inclusion across Panama.
Anthony Kennedy Shriver
Anthony Kennedy Shriver is the Founder, Chairman & CEO of Best Buddies International, which he created in 1989 to foster one-to-one friendships between people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Recognizing the tremendous volunteer potential of university students, Shriver first inspired his college peers to personally collaborate in expanding the realm of opportunities that people with IDD should experience. Today, through Shriver’s stewardship and entrepreneurial spirit, Best Buddies® has grown into a leading nonprofit entity with increasing international reach across six continents, establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for oneto-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for people with IDD. A graduate of Georgetown University, Shriver has been recognized for his work on behalf of Best Buddies with diverse international accolades and honorary degrees. He is the father of five beautiful children and resides in Miami Beach, Florida.
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GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Lexie Appleby Lexie Appleby is a passionate speaker and emcee, nonprofit leader, and advocate dedicated to bringing people together through meaningful experiences. At Best Buddies International, she has spent several years supporting International Programs, advancing global programs, relationships, and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, while increasingly contributing to the organization’s production and entertainment initiatives. Lexie holds a dual degree in Special and Elementary Education and has built a multidisciplinary career spanning education, mental health, the nonprofit sector, and the entertainment industry. A former NFL Cheerleader and dedicated Breast Cancer Advocate, Lexie is passionate about using her personal and professional platforms to inspire action and create meaningful change.
Dr. Karen Shipley Dr. Karen Shipley is a licensed clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience providing psychotherapy, consultation, training, and clinical leadership across healthcare, organizational, and community settings - and across the U.S. and Australia. She is currently a member of the Office of Well-Being for the University of Missouri School of Medicine and MU Healthcare system. Dr. Shipley brings extensive experience in program development, clinical quality improvement, and healthcare consultation. She has worked with systems and interdisciplinary teams to strengthen behavioral health services while addressing systemic factors that contribute to clinician burnout, team functioning, and workforces train. Her work on clinician well-being bridges science and systems change, emphasizing that sustainable care requires both evidence-based individual strategies and organizational alignment. Dr. Shipley’s work helps professionals reconnect with purpose and increase hope while also identifying structural practices that support long-term effectiveness in high-demand environments. An experienced DBT therapist and member of the Missouri DBT consult team, Dr. Shipley is also the founder of Drishti Consulting & Psychotherapy LLC. Her clinical expertise includes complex and high acuity populations across the lifespan, such as individuals experiencing pervasive emotion dysregulation, chronic suicidality, trauma, addiction, and grief. Dr. Shipley values a life grounded in authenticity, reflection, and connection, aligning her personal practices with her professional principles.
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GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Monica Moya
Monica Moya joined Best Buddies International in 2017, starting as a Program Manager in South Florida. Since then, she has advanced to roles including Program Supervisor for South Florida in 2020, Deputy Director of Programs for Expansion the next year, and Deputy Director of Communications and Stewardship for Expansion in 2022. Currently, as Director of Operations and Programs for International Expansion, Monica leads strategic initiatives to ensure global program success, leveraging her bilingual proficiency and multicultural background to foster inclusivity worldwide.
Horace O. Porrás Horace is a Global Business and Human Resources executive that has held different international roles in several multinational companies such as Schlumberger, the world’s leading supplier of technology, integrated project management and information solutions to customers working in the oil and gas industry, and in other organizations like American Tower, Cargill, Mastercard, McDonald’s and Afiniti. Currently serving as VP, Human Resources - Americas at Brink’s Global Services. Speaking fluently English, Spanish and Portuguese, has allowed Horace to forge a strong global experience in Human Resources leadership, including senior executive roles across North America, Latin America, Europe, and globally. He leads initiatives in talent management, executive coaching, organizational transformation, succession planning, performance management, and M&A integration. Led global transformations of the Human Resources function and business structures, across Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia, to rapidly align to the Company’s expansion and growth, as well as to serve its customers with agility, while enabling its digital transformation and a strong focus in HR and business operational excellence, talent development, and diversity initiatives. A passionate advocate for inclusion, he has integrated individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) into organizations, particularly as a Global Ambassador for Best Buddies International. He serves on the Global Council of Junior Achievement Worldwide and the Board of Junior Achievement of Greater Miami, holds a Bachelor's in Business Management, a Master’s in Human Resources Management, and is a certified Marshall Goldsmith / ICF Executive Business Coach.
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Originally from New Jersey, USA, Horace has lived and worked in Brussels (Belgium), Milan (Italy), Bucharest (Romania), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Minnesota (USA), and for the past several years, in Miami, Florida.
GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Emilio Mejia IT Solutions & Cyber Security Consultant, AM3 Technology & Cybersecurity
Emilio Mejia is the owner of AM3 Technology and Cybersecurity, a cybersecurity-first managed IT provider based in South Florida. For over two decades, he has helped organizations large and small protect their operations and put technology to better use, from small businesses to nonprofits serving communities around the world. He is also a best-selling co-author of “16 Strategies You Need to Know to Protect Your Business from Hackers,” a practical guide to navigating today’s cybersecurity landscape. More recently, Emilio has focused much of his work on helping mission-driven organizations use AI in practical, responsible ways, turning it into a tool that saves time and extends their reach rather than something that adds complexity. He brings that same hands-on approach to his session.
Publio Arjona Diaz
Publio Arjona Díaz is a graphic designer, assistive technology specialist, and Head of the Assistive Innovation Office at SENADIS (Panama's National Secretariat for Disability). He also serves as Executive Director of the Unidos en Equidad Foundation (UNE), where he leads innovation and assistive technology initiatives to strengthen the autonomy and inclusion of persons with disabilities. At the age of 18, Publio became quadriplegic. Since then, he has combined his lived experience with his professional expertise to advance the development and use of assistive technologies that promote greater independence and inclusion for persons with disabilities. In 2005, he was recognised as a JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) World Honouree in recognition of his leadership and achievements. In 2014, he received the Key to Panama City in recognition of his contributions to society and the example he has set for others. Publio has represented Panama as a speaker at national and international conferences, sharing his expertise on artificial intelligence, assistive technology, innovation, and inclusion. His international engagements include events organised by the United Nations (UN), UNESCO, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), where he has shared Panama's experience and promoted the use of technology as a tool for building a more inclusive society.
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GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Alba Bernal Alba Bernal is an audiovisual producer with five years of experience in digital media, specializing in content creation, personal branding, and social media management. Throughout her career, she has produced commercials, podcasts, and audiovisual campaigns for brands, organizations, and social impact initiatives. Currently, she brings her creativity to managing Best Buddies Panama’s social media platforms, using digital communication to advance the organization’s mission and promote inclusion among young people in Panama.
Mike Monterro
Mike Montero is the Director of Social Media & Digital Advertising at Best Buddies International, where he leads the organization’s global social media strategy, digital storytelling, and audience engagement efforts. With a passion for creating meaningful, mission-driven content, Mike works to amplify the stories of Best Buddies participants, programs, and communities while helping expand the organization’s reach across digital platforms.
Olga Lucia Lacouture Master's Degree in Narrative from the Escuela de Escritores, Madrid, Spain. Certified as a Transpersonal Mindfulness Consultant from the School of Mindfulness, Madrid, Spain. Training in ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis), at the Institute of Human Potential, Philadelphia. Studies in Special Education at FIU (University of Florida). Psychologist from the Universidad Javeriana with a specialty in Human Resources Management from the Universidad de los Andes. Work experience of more than 15 years in areas of Human Resources Management, Customer Service, Strategic Planning and Total Quality Control in companies such as Top Management, Carvajal S.A, Monsanto, Grupo Colpatria. In 1998 her first daughter Sofia was born with Down Syndrome. After meeting Anthony Shriver and learning about the experience of Best Buddies International, she and her husband Bernardo Vargas agreed to bring Best Buddies to Colombia and founded Best Buddies Colombia (BBC) in 2003. Since then, she has led the development of BBC for the past 23 years, initially as Executive Director and in recent years as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Given her wide experience in intellectual disability she was invited to participate as a member of Colombia´s National Council on Disability in representation of the parents.
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She was a Member of the Board of the Los Nogales School, Bogotá, Colombia. She was a member of the Board of Directors of the Museum of Modern Art of Medellín. More recently she´s writing a book on her experience as a mother of Sofia.
GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Stefan Tromel Since August 2013, Senior Disability Specialist in the International Labour Organization. Between 2008 and 2013, Executive Director of the International Disability Alliance between 1999 and 2004, Director of the European Disability Forum (EDF). Was actively involved in the negotiation process of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2002-2006).
Xochitl Carlos Mendez
Xochitl Carlos Mendez is a nonprofit leader specializing in community engagement, strategic partnerships, and international program development, grounded in connection, care, and strategy. Her professional journey began through volunteering with Best Buddies Mexico and other disability-focused organizations, experiences that shaped her commitment to inclusive, community-centered leadership and led her to serve as a State Coordinator, supporting state-level programming and strategic partnerships. Throughout her career, Xochitl has worked across community-based, nonprofit, and international settings, building strategic alliances, supporting the co-founding of social impact organizations, and translating vision into sustainable, community-driven programs. Her work has been recognized through awards for social impact, and she has contributed to the development and publication of materials and written resources focused on community engagement and mental health. She holds a BA in Special Education and a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy, grounding her leadership in both systems thinking and a deep understanding of human connection. With extensive field experience and a global perspective, Xochitl brings a people-centered, strategic approach to building partnerships and advancing inclusion, leadership, and belonging within Best Buddies.
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GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Robert Friedman Robert Friedman was one of the original members of the Board of Directors of Best Buddies Jobs and has served on the Board of Directors of Best Buddies International continuously since 1994. Bob also has served on the Executive Committee of Best Buddies International and as corporate secretary. He also serves as the organization's legal counsel. Since 1988, Bob has been a partner in the national law firm of Holland & Knight LLP. Trained as a tax and business lawyer, Bob focuses his practice in the area of ERISA, employee benefits and executive compensation. Bob's clients include private and public employers, investment funds, pension and welfare benefit funds, executives and tax exempt organizations. Since 1995, Bob has been continuously included in Woodward/White’s The Best Lawyers in America. Bob earned his B.A. in economics in 1977 from Trinity College, his J.D. in 1980 from Seton Hall University, and his LL.M. in taxation in 1981 from New York University. Prior to joining Holland & Knight as a partner in November 1988, he practiced law in New York and Miami.
Jaime Alemán Jaime Alemán is a Panamanian lawyer, diplomat, and global explorer. A founding partner of Alemán, Cordero, Galindo & Lee, he has held several distinguished public service roles, including Minister of Government and Justice and Ambassador of Panama to the United States from 2009–2011. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Special Olympics International. An avid traveler, Alemán has visited all 193 United Nations member countries, reached both the North and South Poles, and in 2025 traveled to space aboard Blue Origin’s NS-32 mission.
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GLOBAL FORUM SPEAKERS>>
Linda McKendry Linda Mc Kendry is the Chief Operating Officer at Compass Advocacy Network in Ballymoney, with 27 years experience of managing a voluntary organisation & supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Linda's exceptional leadership is evident in the diverse programs she has spearheaded, spanning education, employment, independent living, and social inclusion. She has also brought the international concept of Best Buddies to Northern Ireland and has been pivotal in developing it as a social franchise model. Her empathetic approach forges robust connections with beneficiaries, families, and the community, amplifying the voices of those served. Skilled at staying current in the field, Linda ensures CAN's services remain progressive. Her enduring dedication and skilled management have significantly improved the lives of individuals with IDD, cementing her position as a respected advocate and leader in the field. She is a chartered Manager and a fellow with Chartered Management Institute and firmly believes in lifelong learning and skills acquisition for all. She is committed to her own personal and professional development as well as encouraging others in her team and further afield with their continuous professional development through mentoring and coaching, sharing her experience and expertise with everyone she works with. Describing herself as a tattooed biker Granny who knits and does jigsaws, she is described by others as innovative and creative whilst staying responsive to need.
Cary Ombres
Cary Ombres' journey with Best Buddies International began in high school, igniting his passion for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With degrees in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from the University of Florida and Leadership from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Cary joined Best Buddies in 2010 as a Program Manager in Orlando. Advancing rapidly, he oversaw statewide initiatives and expanded the Jobs program in Florida through effective fundraising. Appointed Senior Director of Foundations in 2019, Cary later served as Vice President of Expansion & Mission Advancement and now serves as Senior Vice President of Global Mission Impact & Engagement, leading global growth strategies for Best Buddies.
Jenny Allen Jennifer Allen is the Vice President of International Programs and Development at Best Buddies International. She has been with the organization for 13 years and oversees international expansion and global partnerhsips. In 2017, Jennifer received her Executive MBA from IE Business School. Outside of work, she is a certified yoga teacher and resides with family in Madrid, Spain.
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AGENDA >>
GLOBAL FORUM TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND >> 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Arrival, Hotel Check-In, Event Registration Global Forum Welcome Reception JW Marriott, Masi Restaurant Space
Speaker: Anthony Kennedy Shriver
Founder & Chairman, Best Buddies International
Monica Perez Trelles Volunteer, Best Buddies Panamá
Yadira González Director of Tourism Planning & Development, Panama Tourism Authority
Enjoy Panamanian cuisine and live music!
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD >> JW Marriott, Grand Pacific A 8:30 - 9:00 AM
Building a More Inclusive World Together Speaker: Vivian Fernandez De Torrijos President, Best Buddies Panamá
Carolina Fernandez Ambassador, Best Buddies Panamá
A dynamic opening conversation exploring how collaboration across sectors, cultures, and communities can accelerate inclusion and opportunity for individuals with IDD worldwide.
9:00 - 9:20 AM
A Conversation with Anthony Kennedy Shriver: The Future of a Global Movement Speaker: Anthony Kennedy Shriver CEO & Chairman, Best Buddies International
Moderator: Lexie Appleby Senior Director, International Programs & Development, Best Buddies International
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Join Best Buddies Founder, Anthony Kennedy Shriver, for a live conversation reflecting on the growth of Best Buddies from an idea into a global movement and his vision for its future. The discussion will explore the future of inclusion and global expansion, followed by an open Q&A with the audience.
9:20 - 10:05 AM
The Science of Belonging: What Communities, Workplaces, and Schools Can Learn from Human Connection Speaker: Dr. Karen Shipley Clinical Psychologist, Office of Well-Being University of Missouri School of Medicine
Examine the research and real-world impact of friendship, social connection, and belonging on wellbeing, confidence, and quality of life.
10:05-10:20 AM
Coffee Break
10:20-11:00 AM
Building Inclusive Communities Across Cultures Panelists:
Carolina Fernandez Ambassador, Best Buddies Panama
Thomas Jefferson Operations Coordination, Best Buddies Dominican Republic
Johanna Acevedo Country Director, Best Buddies Chile
Yatziri Parra State Coordinator, Best Buddies Mexico
Moderator: Monica Moya Director, International Operations & Programs, Best Buddies International
Explore how leaders around the world are fostering belonging and creating communities where individuals with IDD are valued, connected, and included.
11:00 - 11:30 AM
Leading with Strengths: Unlocking Potential and Impact Speaker: Horace O. Porrás
Vice President, Human Resources - Americas, Brink’s Global Services
Strong leadership starts with understanding what you bring to the table and how to bring out the best in others. Drawing on decades of global HR and executive coaching experience, Horace Porras will share practical insights on recognizing individual strengths, developming the skills that make leaders effective, and building engaged, high-performing teams, even when resources are limited.
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GLOBAL FORUM
11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
Best Buddies Country Program Updates Speaker: Best Buddies Country Directors A rapid-fire showcase highlighting key accomplishments, challenges, and innovations from Best Buddies programs around the world.
12:15 - 1:00 PM
Networking Lunch Relax, eat, network with other conference attendees.
1:45 - 2:00 PM
Transfer to the Panama Canal
2:30 - 4:30 PM
Private Tour of Panama Canal
4:30 - 5:00 PM
Transfer to the Hotel
5:00 - 6:00 PM
Optional Rest or 1:1 Meeting Time JW Marriott Lobby (or any available space)
Use the hotel space to set up 1:1 meetings with other attendees at the conference.
EVENING
Dinner on Your Own Attendees select their own location of choice
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH >> 8:30 - 9:00 AM
Transfer to Country Club
9:00 - 9:15 AM
Mission Moment
Club Union (Club Unión de Panamá)
Speaker: Juan Diego Vasques Gutierres Volunteer, Best Buddies Panamá
9:15 - 9:45 AM
AI as a Mission Accelerator: How AI Helps Nonprofits Do More with Less
Speaker: Emilio Mejia Founder AM3 Technology & Cybersecurity
An interactive introduction to how AI can support our work across nonprofits. Participants will explore practical ways to use AI to work more efficiently, generate new ideas, and expand their impact while keeping relationships, inclusion, and human connection at the center of everything we do.
9:45 - 10:15 AM
Technology & Inclusion Speaker: Publio Arjona
Head of the Assistive Innovation Office, SENADIS (Panama's National Secretariat for Disability)
Explore how technology, digital tools, and innovation are creating new pathways for communication, employment, learning, and social connections.
10:15 - 11:00 AM
From Posts to Impact: Using Social Media to Grow Your Mission Speakers:
Mike Montero Director, Digital Advertising & Social Media Best Buddies International
Alba Bernal Best Buddies Panama
Social media is one of the most powerful - and accessible - tools country programs have to build awareness, engage supporters, attract partners, and showcase their impact. This practical session will explore how to create compelling content, tell authentic stories, increase engagement, and make the most of limited time and resources. Participants will leave with actionable ideas they can immediately apply to strengthen their organization’s digital 19 presence.
11:00 - 11:15 AM 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Coffee Break Advancing Inclusive Employment Speakers:
Xochitl Carlos Mendez Deputy Director, International Jobs & Transitions Best Buddies International
Stefan Tromel
Senior Disability Specialist, International Labour Organization
Olga Lucia Lacouture
Founder & Board Chair, Best Buddies Colombia
Explore how inclusive employment is evolving globally and how adaptable models, employer engagement, and shared learning can create more meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
12:00 - 12:30 PM
From Board Member to Trusted Advisor: Lessons in Leadership, Governance & Legal Stewardship Speaker: Robert Friedman Best Buddies Board of Directors, Holland & Knight
Moderator: Lexie Appleby Senior Director, International Programs & Development, Best Buddies International
Explore how strong board leadership, trusted legal counsel, and sound governance can strengthen organizations wile protecting the mission and integrity of a global movement.
12:30 - 2:00 PM
Lunch
Speaker: Jaime Alemán Lawyer, Diplomat, Global Explorer
Jaime Alemán will share reflections from his distinguished career in law, diplomacy, and public service, offering a global perspective on leadership, connection, and creating meaningful impact.
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2:00-2:30 PM
Best Buddies Country Program Updates Speaker: Best Buddies Country Directors A rapid-fire showcase highlighting key accomplishments, challenges, and innovations from Best Buddies programs around the world.
2:30- 3:15 PM
One Step at a Time: Building Your Fundraising Path Speaker: Linda McKendry Europe Regional Consultant & Country Director, Best Buddies Northern Ireland
You don’t need to have fundraising completely figured out to make progress. This session will explore how small, intentional actions - and a willingness to think outside the box - can open new doors. Participants will discover unique approaches to building relationships, uncovering unexpected opportunities, and creating a fundraising path that feels authentic, manageable, and effective.
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3:15 - 3:30 PM
Belonging as a Global Strategy Speakers: Cary Ombres
SVP, Global Mission Impact & Engagement Best Buddies International
Jenny Allen
VP, International Programs & Development Best Buddies International
Reflect on the Forum’s key insights and explore how friendship, leadership, employment, and community can serve as powerful drivers of global inclusion. Lay out next steps and forum follow up. Learn more about some of Best Buddies International’s new programming.
3:30 - 4:00 PM
Transfer to the Hotel
4:00 - 5:00 PM
Optional Rest or 1:1 Meeting Time JW Marriott Lobby (or any available space)
Use the hotel space to set up 1:1 meetings with other attendees at the conference.
5:45 - 6:30 PM
Transfer to the Panama Yacht & Fishing Club
6:30 - 9:30 PM
Global Forum Closing Dinner Panama Yacht & Fishing Club (Club de Yates y Pesca de Panamá)
Held in historic center of Panama City.
GLOBAL FORUM September 22-24, 2026
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GLOBAL FORUM
COUNTRIES ATTENDING >>
Bolivia Alexia Zegarra
Guatemala Karla Galvez
Spain Jennifer Allen
Best Buddies Bolivia
Instituto Neurologico de Guatemala
Best Buddies International
Canada Jennifer Appleby
Mexico Yatziri Parra McPherson
USA Adriana Alvarez Lexie Appleby Roxana Cabaleiro Xochitl Carlos Mendez Becca Impens Anthony Kennedy Shriver Mike Montero Monica Moya Cary Ombres Emma Zagar
Best Buddies Canada
Chile Johanna Acevedo Best Buddies Chile
Colombia Olga Lucia Best Buddies Colombia
Costa Rica Johanna Castro Marisabel Gonzalez Best Buddies Costa Rica
Dominican Republic Thomas Jefferson
Best Buddies Mexico
Northern Ireland Linda McKendry Best Buddies Northern Ireland
Panama Alba Bernal Vivian Fernandez De Torrijos Irene González de Schuby Nelly Grimaldo Irene Perez Ximena Varela Best Buddies Panama
María Estela de la Guardia Bridgia Global
Best Buddies Dominican Republic
Publio Arjona
Ecuador Isabel Maldonado Pablo Reyes
Paraguay Sol Montiel
SENADIS
Best Buddies Paraguay
El Triangulo Foundation
Egypt Hamed Ibrahim Sohaila Osman Best Buddies Egypt
El Salvador Monica Aguirre Alexia Landaverde Best Buddies El Salvador
Peru Veronica Pujazon Best Buddies Peru
Best Buddies International
Horace Porrás Brink’s Global Services
Robert Friedman Holland & Knight
Kandi Pickard Margot Rhondeau National Down Syndrome Society
Emilio Meijia AM3 Technology & Cybersecurity
Dr. Karen Shipley University of Missouri School of Medicine
Türkiye Sercan Duygan Süheyl Baybali Best Buddies Türkiye
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THANK YOU! GLOBAL FORUM
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Yavitz Cypen Foundation