About us

We are Knowmads: creative, innovative, and collaborative individuals who leverage technology to build bridges and partner with those promoting human dignity everywhere and at any time to create a better world.

At the Knowmad Institut, we amplify Human Dignity and Human Rights through impactful public and private policies.

We are People

  • We are people of different origins, experiences, generations and lands who form this team and partnerships.
  • We are the people who want to improve your lives and increase respect for your dignity and rights.
  • We want a fairer future for the generations to come and ourselves.

We are Knowledge

  • We share our knowledge and collaborate with others to improve what we generate within our collective intelligence.
  • We generate, share and collaborate to expand the scope of our studies and ideas.
  • Our actions and arguments are based on facts and science.
  • We promote research and science.
  • We want Knowledge to be at the service of people.

We are Global Citizens

  • Our goal is to improve the lives of all beings on this planet.
  • We are concerned about the current global chaos and uncertainty.
  • We are working to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
  • We work with anyone who promotes human dignity, at any time and in any place without prejudice or discrimination.
  • We want our actions to have an effect on the global stage.

We are Technology

  • We use new and emerging technologies to improve how we work.
  • We leverage on technologies to increase our impact and reach.
  • We want technology to augment our humanity.

We are Actions

  • We bring the initiatives and voices of all we represent to the United Nations and other international organizations to make a global impact.
  • We are part of the Berlin Declaration.
  • We are part of the founders group of the Rome Consensus 2.0.
  • We are observers at WIPO.
  • We are members of the Global Compact and the DGCN.
  • We are members of VNGOC and NYNGOC.
  • We want to be seen and heard by policy and decision makers, whether we agree with their positions or not.

We are NOT AFRAID OF FAILURE

  • We are constantly learning, unlearning and adopting new ideas.
  • We are only as strong as the added strength of our experts, members, allies and networks.
  • We want to change the world.

Martin Díaz

Co-Founder & CEO

Theologian and Social Researcher

Bishop Martin Díaz is a distinguished theologian and social researcher with a focus on human rights, drug policy, and emerging technologies. As the Executive Director of the Knowmad Institut, he has led numerous projects and published extensively in the Americas and Europe. With extensive international advocacy experience, Martin continues to drive innovation and promote human dignity globally. Member of the Rome Consensus 2.0 Secretariat and One Young World Ambassador.

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Daniela Kreher

Co-Funder & Managing Director

Theologian and Social Researcher

Rev. Daniela Kreher is an accomplished theologian and social researcher with extensive experience in project management, international advocacy, and university teaching. As the Managing Director of the Knowmad Institut, she excels in strategic planning, intercultural communication, and leadership. Daniela has worked with intergovernmental entities, NGOs, and faith-based organizations, and is proficient in Spanish, German, and English. Her work focuses on advancing human dignity and social impact through innovative solutions and research. Member of the Rome Consensus 2.0.

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Victor Aragón

Co-Founder & CTO

Technology Officer and Social Entrepreneur

Victor Aragon is an innovative Technology Officer with a background as an international social entrepreneur. He specializes in AI and marketing, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and creative strategy to the Knowmad Institut. Victor is also a passionate activist and has co-founded impactful initiatives such as La María Guanaca and Abraxas Transmedia in Central America and Uruguay. As a finalist in TICAméricas, he continues to drive forward-thinking solutions and technological advancements in support of human dignity and sustainable development.

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Marilyn Reina

Co-Founder & CCO

Creative Officer and Visual Communication Expert

Marilyn Reina is the Chief Creative Officer at the Knowmad Institut, bringing extensive experience in communication science and film. She excels in community communication and has a strong background in creating impactful illustrations. With her expertise, Marilyn leads creative initiatives that enhance the institute’s mission to promote human dignity and sustainable development. Based in Uruguay, her innovative approach and artistic vision are integral to the Knowmad Institut’s global outreach and advocacy efforts.

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Andrés M. Pérez-Acosta

Director of the JMSHRS Editorial Board

Senior Professor of Psychology and Researcher

Dr. Andrés M. Pérez-Acosta is the Director of the JMSHRS Editorial Board and a Senior Professor of Psychology at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences of the Universidad del Rosario in Bogota, Colombia. His research program focuses on the basic and applied psychology of associative learning, through which he is developing the Observatory of Self-Medication Behavior. Dr. Pérez-Acosta’s expertise and scholarly contributions significantly advance the Knowmad Institut’s commitment to open science and human dignity.

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Rafael Lara-Martínez

Honorary Board Member of the Editorial Board

Anthropologist, Linguist, Literary Critic, and Writer

Rafael Lara-Martínez is a distinguished Salvadoran anthropologist, linguist, literary critic, and writer. Holding a PhD in Linguistics from the Sorbonne University, his contributions to the field have earned him the National Culture Award and the honor of being named a “Notable Anthropologist of El Salvador” by the Salvadoran Parliament. His extensive academic and literary work spans across France, Mexico, and El Salvador, enhancing the interdisciplinary reach and cultural depth of the Knowmad Institut’s editorial board. Professor Lara-Martínez’s valuable contributions to the editorial team include his expertise in linguistic analysis, cultural studies, and critical literary perspectives, enriching the journal’s content and ensuring a diverse and comprehensive approach to human rights and science.

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Raquel Peyraube

Member of the Ethics Committee

Expert in Endocannabinology and Medical Ethics

Dr. Raquel Peyraube is a Medical Doctor from the School of Medicine at the University of the Republic of Uruguay, specializing in Drugs and Endocanabinology. She is the founder and current president of the Uruguayan Society of Endocanabinology (SUEN). As a researcher at the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of the Republic in Uruguay, she focuses on regulatory models for medicinal cannabis. Dr. Peyraube is also a member of the International Cannabinoids Research Society and joined the Council at the International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM) in 2017. Her expertise and leadership significantly contribute to the ethical guidance and scientific rigor at the Knowmad Institut.

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Natalia Navas

Member of Experts Committee 

Sociologist and Human Rights Advocate

PhD. Natalia Navas is a distinguished Salvadoran sociologist. With a degree from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a master’s degree from CUNY’s Graduate Center, she completed her PhD at the Department of Sociology at Stony Brook University. Dr. Navas has worked extensively in advocacy for the human rights of marginalized communities, focusing on issues related to the workplace and community development. Her current research delves into the sociology of transnational political participation of immigrants in New York and their countries of origin. Dr. Navas’s expertise and dedication significantly enhance the Knowmad Institut’s mission and goals.

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Pedro Salvador Fonseca

Member of the Ethics Committee

Peace Ambassador and Academic Leader

Pedro Salvador Fonseca is a European Commission and One Young World Peace Ambassador. He holds a Master’s Degree in Conflict Resolution, Peace, and Development from the United Nations Mandated-University for Peace, and a Diplomacy and International Relations Degree from American University (UAM) Nicaragua. He has served as a consultant and analyst to the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (OAS) and has a distinguished academic career as a Titular Professor of International Relations and Conflict Resolution at the School of Law and International Relations of American University (UAM) in Nicaragua. Pedro is the author of several studies on the state of democracy in Nicaragua and the fraudulent general elections in 2021. He has co-founded and coordinated numerous social initiatives related to democracy, peace and conflict, and electoral analysis. Recently, he was appointed as Head of Mission of the Urnas Abiertas/CECADE Electoral Observation Mission for the 2022 Costa Rica general elections. Additionally, he is an active LGBT+ activist. His expertise and dedication greatly contribute to the Knowmad Institut’s ethical standards and advocacy work.

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Marcos Knoblauch

Member of Experts Committee 

Aeronautical Engineer and Human Rights Advocate

Marcos Knoblauch is an accomplished aeronautical engineer with a master’s degree in space and aeronautics from TUM – Germany – and Cranfield University – UK, as well as a master’s degree in human rights from UNLP – Argentina. He has an extensive background in teaching and research in applied sciences, specifically in the field of space technology. Marcos has dedicated much of his career to defending human rights, working with marginalized communities in regions affected by armed conflict and military occupation. He is currently a member of an international accompaniment organization supporting communities and leaders at high risk, based in Colombia. His expertise in both technology and human rights significantly enhances the interdisciplinary efforts of the Knowmad Institut’s Expert Committee.

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Dulce María Pallero

Member of the Editorial Board, JMSHRS

Psychologist and Psychoanalyst

Dulce María Pallero is a psychologist and psychoanalyst with extensive academic and professional experience. She has served as a lecturer at the University Extension Department of the School of Psychology at Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP). Dulce is a co-founder of the Interdisciplinary Team of Childhood at FaHCE, UNLP, and is currently pursuing a specialization in Education, Gender, and Sexualities at FaHCE, UNLP. Her work focuses on the intersection of psychology, education, and gender studies, contributing valuable insights to the editorial board of JMSHRS.

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Jorge Molina

Member of the Ethics Committee

Psychologist and Researcher

Jorge Molina is a dedicated psychologist and researcher at the Department of Research and Educational Development of the Institute of Research and Professional Training at Universidad Don Bosco, El Salvador. With a master’s degree in mental health, a postgraduate degree in psycho-oncology, and as a doctoral candidate in social sciences at Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas and Universidad Don Bosco, he specializes in the social construction processes of chronic diseases, mourning, death, and mortuary behaviors. Jorge is also a member of the International Scientific Committee of the Observatory of Self-Medication Behavior at Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia. His extensive research and publications in the social sciences focus on chronic, degenerative, and slowly progressing diseases. He has presented his work at national and international congresses, including the American Association of Medical Anthropology, the Association of Psychological Anthropology of the United Kingdom, and the Latin American Congress of Anthropology. Jorge is a member of divisions 28 (Psychopharmacology and Substance Abuse) and 52 (International Psychology) of the American Psychological Association.

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David Bruna Ortiz

Member of the Experts Committee

Philosopher and Public Safety Advisor

David Bruna Ortiz is a One Young World Ambassador and Co-Founder of the Ibero-American Leadership Network for Development (RELID). He holds a degree in Philosophy with studies in Humanities and Liberal Arts, a Diploma in Citizen Security from the Alberto Hurtado University, and a Diploma in Political Communication from the University of Montevideo. As Public Safety Advisor to the Ministry of the Interior in the Government of Chile under President Michelle Bachelet, he facilitated Caritas Santiago’s involvement in implementing public policies on crime prevention. David has also served as Executive Secretary in the Episcopal Conference of Chile and has extensive experience in the human and religious formation of young people in vulnerable sectors. A former member of the Religious Order of the Society of Jesus, he has been a scholar of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and an active member of networks of young politicians, including Somos LA-KAS and the Humanist Network for Latin America. Currently, he resides in Hamburg, where he is completing his Master of Science in Politics, Economics & Philosophy at the University of Hamburg.

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Jorge Vicente Paladines

Member of the Ethics Committee

Criminal Law Professor and Drug Policy Advocate

Jorge Vicente Paladines is a professor at the Universidad Central del Ecuador and the founder of the Drug Policy program at the Instituto de Altos Estudios Nacionales. As an Advisor and Regional Public Defender (2012-2016), he promoted strategic litigation against the criminalization of drug users and facilitated the release of over five thousand individuals detained under the war on drugs. Jorge served as an Advisor to the Justice Commission of the National Assembly (2011) and as an Analyst and Undersecretary at the Ministry of Justice (2008-2010), where he contributed to drug law reforms within the new Comprehensive Organic Criminal Code and the development of more humane prison policies. Since 2008, he has taught at various Latin American universities. Jorge is the author of numerous research studies, monographs, and articles on Criminal Law and Criminology, with an emphasis on drug policy, legislation, and criminal justice. He holds a law degree from the University of Guayaquil, a Master in Constitutional Law from the Andean University “Simon Bolivar”, a Master in Political Science from the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences, and is a PhD Candidate in Criminal Law at the University of Bremen.

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Anja Loizaga-Velder

Member of the Experts Committee

Clinical Psychologist and Traditional Medicine Researcher

PhD. Anja Loizaga-Velder is a clinical psychologist with a doctorate in medical psychology (Dr.sc.hum.) from Heidelberg University, Germany. She is a psychotherapist specializing in humanistic and transpersonal psychology and is a renowned researcher in traditional medicine and sacred plants and their potential for psychotherapy. Anja is the co-founder and director of psychotherapy and research at the Nierika A.C. Institute of Intercultural Medicine. She also serves as a professor and postgraduate researcher in Medical and Health Sciences at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Her work integrates traditional healing practices with modern psychotherapy to advance mental health treatments and cross-cultural understanding.

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Oscar Hugo Espin García

Member of the Experts Committee

Public Mental Health Specialist and Social Anthropologist

Oscar Hugo Espin García holds a Master of Science in Public Mental Health from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (2020) and a degree in Social Anthropology from the National School of Anthropology and History (2012). He specializes in qualitative research in mental health, focusing on individuals who use psychoactive substances. His work spans controlled clinical settings, mutual aid groups, and recreational contexts where substance use occurs. Oscar’s research aims to understand and improve the mental health and well-being of these populations through comprehensive and empathetic approaches.

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Mariano Fusero

Member of the Ethics Committee

Lawyer and Drug Policy Reform Advocate

Mariano Fusero is a distinguished lawyer from the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) with a Diploma in Drug Policy from the Centro de Investigación y Docencia Económica (CIDE), Mexico. He is a former fellow at the Executive Course on Drug Policy, Diplomacy, and Global Public Health at the Graduate Institute Geneva, Switzerland, and a former fellow of the Global Drug Policy Program in the United Kingdom. As the President of RESET – Drug Policy and Human Rights, Mariano has authored significant legislative proposals in Argentina, including reforms to Drug Law No. 23,737 and General Recommendation No. 3 of the National Institute against Discrimination (INADI) on “Discrimination against users of Prohibited Drugs.” He also authored the “Declaration of Argentine Magistrates for a Drug Policy respectful of Human Rights.” Mariano has extensive teaching experience across various faculties in Argentina, contributing to the education and development of future legal and policy professionals.

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Jesus Ribero

Member of the Ethics Committee

Mechanical Engineer and AI Ethics Analyst

Jesus Ribero is a diligent and results-oriented professional with over 13 years of experience in multicultural project management teams. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Zulia University, Venezuela, a Master of Business Administration from EAE Business School, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in AI Ethics and Governance from Salamanca Pontifical University. Jesus is flexible and enthusiastic, with a self-motivated “can-do” attitude and a strong sense of responsibility.

In recent years, his focus has been on Information Technology, specializing in AI Ethics. As an Ethics Analyst in Artificial Intelligence, Jesus conducts ethical reviews of AI projects, develops policies for ethical AI governance, and engages with stakeholders to promote responsible AI practices. He is dedicated to ensuring that rapid technological advancements align harmoniously with the enhancement of humanity. Jesus firmly believes that the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents unprecedented opportunities to improve the human experience, provided its challenges are met with foresight and integrity.

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Veronica Díaz

Member of the Experts Committee

International Cooperation Specialist and Innovation Leader

With over 15 years of experience in the international cooperation sector, Veronica Díaz has focused on innovation, business and technological development of MSMEs, as well as strengthening entrepreneurs. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and Pharmacy, a Master’s Degree in Science with a specialization in Biotechnology, and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Project Management.

Veronica has led interdisciplinary teams and managed projects funded by international entities. She has further enhanced her expertise with diplomas and certifications in areas such as entrepreneurial ecosystems, intellectual property, innovation, agile methodologies, and business acceleration programs. Her continuous commitment to learning and her extensive experience make her a valuable member of the Knowmad Institut’s Expert Committee.

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Óscar Alfonso Zuluaga Abdala

Member of the Ethics Committee

Global Humanitarian Worker and Community Advocate

Óscar Alfonso Zuluaga Abdala is a dedicated global humanitarian worker with extensive experience in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Portugal, Italy, Timor Leste, Switzerland, Haiti, Panama, Moldova, Canada, Iraq, Jordan, and more. He believes that being a “DOER” is the most important thing in life.

Throughout his career, Óscar has advocated for the importance of working with communities, fostering shared learning, and giving them a voice. His educational background includes studies in Business Administration, International Development and Sustainability, Fundraising, and Education.

Since 2005, he has been a member of the Rome Consensus for a Humanitarian Drug Policy, serving as their Special Representative from 2005 to 2009. Óscar’s commitment to humanitarian work and his extensive experience make him a vital member of the Knowmad Institut’s Ethics Committee.

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Co-Funder & CEO

Graham De Barra

Member of the Experts Committee

International Human Rights Lawyer and Social Campaigner

Graham De Barra holds a Master of Law (LL.M.) in International Human Rights Law. Described as a mover and shaker, he has launched numerous social campaigns and founded several tech startups. With a passion for systems reform, Graham strives to remove inefficient bureaucratic layers from the fabric of society and increase transparency around governance issues through disintermediation. His innovative approach and dedication to improving governance make him a valuable asset to the Knowmad Institut’s Expert Committee.

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Kazé A. Onguene

Member of the Experts Committee

Kazé A. Onguene is a futuristic thinker and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in IT project management, recruitment, team building, and web development. He studied Software Engineering at ECE Paris and Computer Science at La Sorbonne. Kazé is the founder and CEO of BRAINCITIES LAB and has a proven track record of helping companies like France Telecom, Pierre & Vacances, and Le Figaro adapt to digitization and develop web-based projects. In 2006, he founded EMERGENCE GROUP, a digital media company that later transformed into an IT consulting company in 2011. Kazé’s innovative approach and extensive experience make him a valuable member of the Knowmad Institut’s Expert Committee.

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Luis Sarmento

European Hemp and Medical Cannabis Advisor

Expert in Industrial and Medicinal Hemp

Luis Sarmento holds a Master of Arts in Social Sciences, specializing in Politics, Political Science, and Government from the University of Glasgow. With extensive experience in the industrial and medicinal hemp industry across Europe, including Portugal, the UK, and Germany, Luis brings invaluable expertise to the Knowmad Institut. His deep knowledge and experience in hemp and medical cannabis make him a key advisor in advancing sustainable and innovative practices within this sector.

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Ricardo Langlois

Special Advisor

Lawyer and Notary Specializing in Criminal Justice and Economic Law

Ricardo Langlois is a distinguished lawyer and notary specializing in criminal justice and economic law. Based in El Salvador, he brings a wealth of legal expertise to the Knowmad Institut. Ricardo’s extensive knowledge and experience in these fields make him an invaluable asset in advising on matters of justice and economic policy, contributing significantly to the institute’s mission of promoting human dignity and sustainable development.

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Armando Loizaga

Cosmovision Relations Manager

Specialist in Substance Abuse Treatment and Intercultural Medicine

Armando Loizaga holds a B.S. from CCDCR University of Minnesota-Hazelden Foundation and is a Certified Chemical Dependency Specialist. With extensive experience in the field of substance abuse treatment and prevention, he serves as the President of the Intercultural Medicine Institute of Nierika A.C. Armando’s work focuses on integrating traditional healing practices with modern treatment methods, enhancing the effectiveness and cultural relevance of substance abuse interventions. His leadership and expertise make him a vital contributor to the Knowmad Institut’s efforts in promoting holistic and intercultural approaches to health and well-being.

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David Borja

Communications Officer

Rodrigo Viva

CFO 

Administration and Finance. Experience at IBM, UniCredit, Banque Heritage. (Italy, Uruguay)

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Claudio García

Researcher

Gloria Goulart

Researcher

Marcelo Montes

Growth & Strategy Advisor

Fabian Bordel

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Business Developer. Experience at CPA Ferrere Business Developer, NGO Art Decó Montevideo as Community Manager (Venezuela, Uruguay)

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Jorge Hernández Tinajero

Past Ethics Committee Member

Political scientist and internationalist from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. He has specialized in drug policies, International drug control model, risk and harm reduction, substance analysis, cannabis and poppy policies, as well as human rights. He has produced many specialized publications and is a founding member of the Mexican Association of Cannabis Studies, since 2004. From 2008 to 2014 he was President and Executive Director of CuPIHD AC.

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Experts Committee

A growing Salvadorian sociologist with a degree from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a master’s degree from CUNY’s Graduate Center. He is currently part of the PhD program of the Department of Sociology at Stony Brook University. She has worked extensively in advocacy for the human rights of marginalized communities, primarily on issues related to the workplace and community development. His current research focuses on the sociology of transnational political participation of immigrants in New York and their origin countries.

Natalia Navas

Natalia Navas

“I firmly believe in the Knowmad Institut’s focus to create knowledge that responds to the protection of human rights through an inter-generational and multidisciplinary approach. Not only so, but the founders focus on the inclusion of not only varying disciplines but life experience to enrich the perspectives and expertise of participants. I believe too, that the most powerful thing to affect change is to create knowledge that speaks to the truth of many people in the world and not a handful of gatekeepers that have shaped local and international policy for centuries.”

Aeronautical engineer, master in space and aeronautics from TUM – Germany – and Cranfield University – UK -, and master in human rights from UNLP – Argentina. He has long worked as a teacher and researched in applied sciences, in the field of space technology. He has extensively worked in the defense of human rights with marginalised communities, in regions where armed conflict is present and under military occupation. He is currently a member of an international accompaniment organization supporting communities and leaders in high risk based in Colombia.

Marcos Knoblauch

Marcos Knoblauch

Member of Experts Committee

“It is important that thought and action be articulated, reading the reality with social, political, economic, and technological tools that are independent and critical of the dynamics of the dominant powers.
I believe that Knowmad Institut proposal brings us closer to a vision of multidisciplinary collaboration in both thought and action, which challenges us to rethink what is established and open the space for alternatives that radically promote social justice, human rights, freedom, and dignity.”

Clinical psychologist with a doctorate in medical psychology (Dr.sc.hum.) from Heidelberg University, Germany.
Psychotherapist specialized in humanistic and transpersonal psychology and researcher of traditional medicine and sacred plants and their potential for psychotherapy. She is co-founder and director of psychotherapy and research at the Nierika A.C. Institute of Intercultural Medicine, as well as professor and postgraduate researcher in Medical and Health Sciences at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México.

Anja Loizaga-Velder

Anja Loizaga-Velder

Member of Experts Committee

“My motivation to join the Knowmad Institut is the research of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for psychotherapy.”

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BRAINCITIES LAB. Futuristic Thinker and Entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in IT project management, recruitment, team building, and web development, he studied Software engineering at ECE Paris and computer science at la Sorbonne. Kazé Founded EMERGENCE GROUP, a digital media company in 2006 transformed into an IT consulting company in 2011. During the last 15 years, Kazé used his creativity and resources to help companies like France Telecom, Pierre & Vacances, and Le Figaro adapt their businesses to digitization and develop web-based projects.

Kazé A. ONGUENE

Kazé A. ONGUENE

Member of Experts Committee

“Kazé is a visionary entrepreneur that decided to focus on a social and engineering Challenge: Using AI, robots, and Blockchain to design the city of the future and a sustainable society. Knowmad Institut’s vision is to contribute to this goal and promotes the adoption of Blockchain. “

Master of Science on Public Mental Health from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (2020), he is also a Social Anthropologist from the National School of Anthropology and History (2012).
He currently develops qualitative research in mental health, specifically working directly with people who use psychoactive substances, both in controlled clinical settings, groups and associations of mutual aid, as well as in recreational contexts where there is substance consumption.

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Oscar Hugo Espin García

Member of Experts Committee

“I am joining the Knowmad Institut team to develop trans-disciplinary research that will influence the construction of community strategies in the promotion of mental health and substance abuse through a comprehensive and broad-spectrum approach that incorporates the human rights perspective in global health.”

 

One Young World Ambassador and Co-Founder of the Ibero-American Leadership Network for Development (RELID). Degree in Philosophy with studies in Humanities and Liberal Arts, Diploma in Citizen Security from the Alberto Hurtado University, and Diploma in Political Communication from the University of Montevideo. As Public Safety Advisor to the Ministry of the Interior in the Government of Chile, during the administration of President Michelle Bachelet, he managed the participation of Caritas Santiago in the implementation of public policies on crime prevention. He has experience in religious organizations as Executive Secretary in the Episcopal Conference of Chile. He has extensive expertise in human and religious formation of young people in vulnerable sectors and in volunteer organizations, as a former member of the Religious Order of the Society of Jesus. He has been a scholar of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and member of networks of young politicians, such as Somos LA-KAS and the Humanist Network for Latin America.
He lives in Hamburg where he is finishing his Master of Science in Politics, Economics & Philosophy at the University of Hamburg.

David

David Bruna Ortiz

Member of Experts Committee

“I am passionate about collective projects and the search for equity and justice. I am convinced that the solutions to today’s social problems have to be made with a human perspective and oriented to the defense of the dignity of every person. The Knowmad Institute, from abroad, interdisciplinary and diverse perspective, is a space to contribute to the development of a drug policy with a human approach, based on social justice and with long-term objectives, as is its commitment to the promotion of the Rome Consensus 2.0. Being part of this project gives me hope in generating real structures for the implementation of these policies.”

Master of Law (LL.M.), International Human Rights Law, Described as a mover and shaker; has launched social campaigns and founded several tech startups. With a passion for systems reform, Graham strives to remove inefficient bureaucratic layers from the fabric of society and increase transparency around governance issues through disintermediation.

Graham De Barra

Graham De Barra

Member of Experts Committee

“My interest in the Knowmad Institut is focuses on bringing privacy and decentralisation to the masses as a tool for promoting self determination and independent free thought.”

Ethics Committee

Medical Doctor from the School of Medicine from the University of the Republic of Uruguay, specialized in Drugs and Endocanabinology. She is the founder and current president of the Uruguayan Society of Endocanabinology (SUEN). She is a researcher at the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of the Republic in Uruguay working on regulatory models for medicinal cannabis, is a member of the International Cannabinoids Research Society, and in 2017 she became a member of the Council at the International Cannabinoid Association as a Medications (IACM).

Raquel Peyraube

Raquel Peyraube

Member of the Ethics Committee

“Policies and actions that flagrantly violate ethical standards of public health and human rights are often validated and legitimized uncritically. But they have also been inspirational in finding new ways and challenging the changes needed to guide new actions from a humanitarian ethics perspective. I believe that the changes needed to protect and repair the ethnosphere must come from a critical review of the interventions in the light of the ethical aspects involved. I believe that the mission of the Knowmad Institut is in line with my concerns and therefore offers the possibility of generating contributions that reorient the work from a profound respect for Human and Civil Rights.”

Lawyer from the University of Buenos Aires (UBA). Diploma in Drug Policy at the Centro de Investigación y Docencia Económica (CIDE), Mexico. Former Fellow at the Executive Course on Drug Policy, Diplomacy and Global Public Health, Graduate Institute Geneve, Switzerland. Former Fellow of the Global Drug Policy Program, United Kingdom, President of RESET – Drug Policy and Human Rights. Writer of bills in Argentina to reform the Drug Law No. 23,737. Writer of General Recommendation No. 3 of the National Institute against Discrimination (INADI) on “Discrimination against users of Prohibited Drugs”. The writer of the “Declaration of Argentine Magistrates for a Drug Policy respectful of Human Rights”. Teaching experience in several faculties of the country.

Mariano Fusero

Mariano Fusero

Member of the Ethics Committee

“In the turbulent world in which we live, the defence of human dignity is becoming more and more important and the Knowmad Institute is proposing an innovative way of approaching current issues through intergenerational collaboration and multidisciplinary research. That is why I believe it is essential to contribute a Latin American vision to the multidisciplinary debate on access to and recognition of human rights at the global level.”

Researcher in the Department of Research and Educational Development of the Institute of Research and Professional Training of Universidad Don Bosco, El Salvador. Psychologist, with a master’s degree in mental health, a postgraduate degree in psycho-oncology, and doctoral candidate in social sciences at Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas and Universidad Don Bosco. He has specialized, researched, and writes about the processes of social construction in chronic diseases, mourning, death, and mortuary behaviors. He writes from the Social Sciences about chronic, degenerative, and slowly progressing diseases, mourning and mortuary behaviors. Member of the International Scientific Committee of the Observatory of Self-Medication Behavior of the Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia. He has presented at national and international congresses through the American Association of Medical Anthropology, the Association of Psychological Anthropology of the United Kingdom, and the Latin American Congress of Anthropology. He is a member of divisions 28 and 52 of the American Psychological Association, Psychopharmacology and Substance Abuse and International Psychology.

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Jorge Molina

Member of the Ethics Committee

The greatest interest in participating in the Ethics Committee is due to the important need to rethink our behavior, prejudices, attitudes, and above all, mental and social representations. To reflect on what we consider “good or bad”, from a critical and independent position.

Professor at the Universidad Central del Ecuador and founder of the Drug Policy program at the Instituto de Altos Estudios Nacionales. As Advisor and Regional Public Defender (2012-2016) he promoted strategic litigation against the criminalization of drug users, as well as the release of more than five thousand people deprived of liberty detained in the name of the war on drugs. He was Advisor to the Justice Commission of the National Assembly (2011) and Analyst and Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice (2008-2010), where he participated in the design of reforms to drug laws within the new Comprehensive Organic Criminal Code, in addition to the development of more humane prison policies. Since 2008 he has been involved in teaching at various Latin American universities. Author of research, monographs and articles on Criminal Law and Criminology with emphasis on drug policy, legislation and criminal justice. He is a lawyer from the University of Guayaquil, Master in Constitutional Law from the Andean University “Simon Bolivar”, Master in Political Science from the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences and PhD Candidate in Criminal Law from the University of Bremen.

Jorge Paladines Comite de Etica

Jorge Vicente Paladines

Member of the Ethics Committee

“Knowmad Institut proposes a new challenge. It is not only the assumption of another multidisciplinary perspective, but a dispute for knowledge. It has been over-diagnosed that international drug policy has practical contradictions with human rights; meanwhile, the same formulas, concepts and norms persist in the establishment of diplomatic discourse, where knowledge is stale in the tradition of any Viennese café. Therefore, if the irruption of new approaches is desirable, the emergence of other knowledge will always be necessary.”

European Commission and One Young World Peace Ambassador, with a Master’s Degree in Conflict Resolution, Peace and Development from the United Nations Mandated-University for Peace, and a Diplomacy and International Relations Degree from American University (UAM) Nicaragua. He was consultant and analyst to the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (OAS), and holds a strong academic career as Titular Professor of International Relations and Conflict Resolution at the School of Law and International Relations of American University (UAM) in Nicaragua, among other academic projects. Author of several studies related to the state of democracy in Nicaragua, and the fraudulent general elections in 2021. He has been cofounder and Program Coordinator for several social initiatives related to Democracy, Peace and Conflict, and Electoral Analysis. Recently, he was appointed as Head of Mission of the Urnas Abiertas/CECADE Electoral Observation Mission for the 2022 Costa Rica general elections. Is an LGBT+ activist.

Pedro

Pedro Salvador Fonseca

Member of the Ethics Committee

“It is a great honor to be part of a project that prioritizes not only the production and dissemination of knowledge, but also action and commitment to human rights and human dignity. The challenges of today’s world require participatory and inclusive leadership, capable of imagining a better world and working hard for it.”

Global Humanitarian Worker with extensive experience in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Portugal, Italy, Timor Leste, Switzerland, Haiti, Panama, Moldova, Canada, Iraq, Jordan, among others. He believes that being a DOER is the most important thing in life.

Throughout his career, he has advocated for the importance of working with communities, fostering shared learning, and giving them a voice.

His educational background includes studies in Business Administration, International Development and Sustainability, Fundraising, and Education.

Since 2005, he has been a member of the Rome Consensus for a Humanitarian Drug Policy, serving as their Special Representative from 2005 to 2009.

Knowmad Profile Oscar

Óscar Alfonso Zuluaga Abdala

Member of the Ethics Committee

The Knowmad Institut provides an opportunity to learn and grow together, building a better world with ethics and profound respect for all people.

Furthermore, supporting the Rome Consensus strengthens the role of civil society as advisors in drug policy planning and initiatives to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable sectors of society.

It is a unique opportunity to establish a new commitment to a drug policy based on reason and compassion, free from ideology, force, stigmatization, and discrimination.

Political scientist and internationalist from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. He has specialized in drug policies, International drug control model, risk and harm reduction, substance analysis, cannabis and poppy policies, as well as human rights. He has produced many specialized publications and is a founding member of the Mexican Association of Cannabis Studies, since 2004. From 2008 to 2014 he was President and Executive Director of CuPIHD AC.

Jorge Hernández Tinajero

Jorge Hernández Tinajero

Member of the Ethics Committee

My interest in participating in the Committee resides in keeping myself updated and active on issues related to drugs, from a perspective of human rights, risk and harm reduction, and personal freedom and autonomy.