AFS Venezuela
Volunteer Since: 1989
Without Nelly, AFS Venezuela would not exist today. With her, the organization has not only endured but continued to thrive under some of the most difficult circumstances, in a country where the mission of AFS is extremely important.
Nelly’s journey with AFS began in 1989 and reflects a lifetime of commitment to intercultural understanding, education, and volunteerism. By opening her home to students from diverse backgrounds, Nelly has not only enriched her family’s life but also helped cultivate a community rooted in respect and appreciation for diversity. Over the years, she served as a local chapter coordinator, national board member, and for the last decade, board advisor; roles through which she inspired others to embrace the AFS mission and strengthened the organization at every level.
Nelly stands as a foundational pillar of AFS, not only because of her wealth of experience but also due to her remarkable ability to inspire others to engage and embrace diversity. Her journey exemplifies how AFS values shape the lives of participants, fostering lasting connections and promoting a more inclusive world.
With a successful career as a lawyer, she has brought her expertise to our organization, significantly impacting the adaptation of its statutes to meet contemporary challenges and needs. In the 1990s, Nelly negotiated crucial agreements with private companies and government entities to secure scholarships for economically disadvantaged. These young individuals have since become a foundational part of our volunteer force. She also established partnerships within the AFS network allowing Venezuelan youth to both receive and provide opportunities for international participants. Through these initiatives, hundreds of lives have been transformed.
Nelly has consistently guided AFS Venezuela through crisis. In 2002, she coordinated the evacuation of hosted students without incident and made the principled decision to refund hosting fees. In 2019, when AFS Venezuela faced an internal crisis, she was instrumental in renewing the board and reorganizing the office, ensuring continuity and stability. She has also led the legal work of the organization, drafting regulations and policies that sustain its quality and credibility.
For more than 20 years, in the face of Venezuela’s economic, political, and social challenges, Nelly has provided the strength and leadership that allowed AFS to survive and reach its 67th anniversary as a resilient, organized community. She has empowered volunteers, motivated new leaders, and created an environment where the values of intercultural understanding continue to flourish despite adversity.
Nelly’s unwavering dedication to the mission of AFS, combined with her exceptional leadership in navigating challenging circumstances, makes her a deserving candidate for the Galatti Award. Recognizing her contributions would not only honor her remarkable journey but also acknowledge the significant positive impact she has had on her fellow volunteers, chapters, and the national organization. Her efforts have created a lasting legacy within AFS Venezuela, inspiring future generations to continue the vital work of intercultural exchange.