Ilaina is a dedicated coach and social impact leader with over 25 years of experience fostering social change across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, India, and East Africa. Her journey in grassroots and global initiatives has enabled her to support individuals and organizations in enhancing their impact and well-being.
Ilaina's career began in the International Cooperation Department of the Youth Council of Galicia-Spain, where she nurtured relations with the European Union. Her deep-rooted passion for education and trust in human potential led her to work on community-based projects in Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Haiti.
At Ashoka, she held various roles that allowed her to champion the organization's vision of a world where Everyone is a Changemaker. From directing a youth program in Argentina to leading global campaigns in the U.S. and expanding Ashoka's reach in Central America and Kenya, Ilaina always approached her work with zest, curiosity, and commitment.
In 2011, Ilaina co-founded Amani Institute, a globally acclaimed social enterprise. As Executive Director until February 2021, she was privileged to shape the social impact careers of nearly 10,000 individuals from 65 countries. She also had the honor of supporting over 250 organizations worldwide, from large U.N. departments to small local businesses, in enhancing their staff capacity, motivation, and overall impact.
As the Head of Talent Development at Proximity Designs, Ilaina focused on nurturing and advancing the organization's human capital. Her implementation of innovative training programs and leadership development strategies, such as Internal Coaching Training, Micro-Learning Campaigns, and comprehensive manager training, enhanced staff capabilities and performance.
Ilaina's governance experience includes serving on several esteemed boards, such as the Open Society Foundation advisory board (Global), Coca-Cola Institute (Brazil), The Bio-Leadership Project (U.K.), Recipes for Well-being (Global), the School of Future (India), and Universidad Camilo José Cela (Spain).
Her academic journey includes a Master's degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master's in International Studies and Peace and Conflict Resolution from Torcuato Di Tella University. She is also a Certified Executive Coach by the International Coaching Federation, with additional certifications in Transpersonal Therapy and Mediation and Conflict Resolution.
Ilaina authored a book chapter to the Brazilian anthology Negócios de Impacto Socioambiental no Brasil, offering insights on how social entrepreneurs can thrive. She has written several essays for the Stanford Social Innovation Review and authored a book titled The New Reason to Work, which provides essential keys to building a dream career in social impact, aligning one's life mission with job opportunities, and sustaining a fulfilling and impactful career over a lifetime.
