A testament to the value and effectiveness of our collaborative work.
In 2018, Eliana Elías, co-founder and CEO of Minga Perú, was chosen as a National Geographic Explorer, a network of more than 3,000 like-minded changemakers and innovators. Her natural leadership, problem-solving skills, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world are recognized in this award.
Minga Peru has been selected to receive the 2014 EMpower Youth Champions Award. This recognition honors the long-standing relationship between EMpower and a partner that has made a significant contribution to the field of youth development in their community or country.
In the words of Marta Cabrera, President of EMpower: “We believe Minga exemplifies the best of EMpower’s mission in its work to empower young men and women, lift those in poverty, provide concrete skills, and innovate and evolve as a continuous learning organization.” Emira Montes Zuta (Loreto Program Coordinator) and Eliana Elías (Minga Executive Director) traveled to New York to accept the award on behalf of the women, men, and youth working to improve living conditions in the river communities of the Loreto region. Dressed in traditional Kukama clothing, Emira gave an inspiring acceptance speech. Congratulations to the incredible young people of the Loreto region for their work!
Eliana Elías, Executive Director of Minga Peru, was selected as the inaugural recipient of the 2014 Triumph of the Spirit International Human Rights Award, presented by Southern Methodist University. According to Rick Halperin, Director of the Embrey Human Rights Program, the award “represents a microcosm of the life-changing work being done at the local level around the world on issues that affect everyone. The awards are meant to give us hope that change can be made in small steps of awareness and action.” Eliana is thrilled with the recognition and has donated the US$25,000 cash prize to Minga. She believes this award is a recognition of all the people she and Minga have accompanied, inspired, supported, encouraged, and advised over the years. And, of course, it's also a recognition of the brave women of the Amazon who have invested their strength and joy in the fight for their rights. Congratulations to all!
Eliana Elías, Executive Director of Minga Perú, was selected for the respected Ashoka Fellowship, the world's largest community of social change entrepreneurs, in recognition of her work improving communication in the public health sector and ensuring that communities understand the services and information offered.
Eliana, through Minga Peru, has embodied Ashoka's philosophy by empowering and equipping others to be agents of change through the three levels of impact: direct service, systems change, and mindset change. This work is reflected in Minga Peru's programs and impact.