Demo Lab’s leadership brings together entrepreneurs, academics, philanthropists, and civic innovators who share a commitment to freedom and democracy.
Dr. Álvaro Salas Castro
FounderDr. Álvaro Salas-Castro is the Founder of Demo Lab Foundation, and has a deep background of fostering civic innovation through initiatives such as the BLISS Summit, Freedom Academy, and Freedom Accelerator, connecting activists, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs devoted to liberty and human dignity.
He is now President and CEO of The Reynolds Foundation, where he leads global initiatives advancing individual freedom, civic leadership, and responsible investment. A respected voice in the international freedom movement, he works with leaders and institutions across sectors to strengthen open societies.
He also serves on the Global Advisory Board of the Wilson Center and as a Board Member of the World Liberty Congress, and has served as Board Director in several regional investment funds bridging enterprise, governance, and strategy.
Dr. Salas-Castro is Visiting Professor at Cornell University’s Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy and Faculty Member at INCAE Business School, where his work links strategic leadership, philanthropic family offices, and governance to the enduring pursuit of freedom and human flourishing.
Noemi Salas-Boyer
ChairwomanNoemi Salas-Boyer is a mission-driven strategist with experience building teams, partnerships and philanthropic networks. Her work has focused on guiding organizations toward coherent, high-integrity vision.
As Chair of the Demo Lab Foundation, Noemi safeguards the organization’s long-term mission and intellectual direction. She ensures alignment across all programs while stewarding the Foundation’s closest relationships. She also coaches senior leaders and represents Demo Lab in external environments.
Noemi's approach draws on years of entrepreneurial practice and strategic leadership development. Outside of Demo Lab, Noemi is an early riser and fitness enthusiast whose discipline and commitment to growth mirror the clarity and intentionality she brings to the Foundation’s mission.
Max Reynolds
Vice ChairmanMax Reynolds is the Director of Projects of The Reynolds Foundation, where he also serves as an active member of the Advisory Council. With a commitment to education, economic development, and sustainable practices, Max plays a pivotal role in advancing the foundation’s mission to empower communities and foster human flourishing.
Previously, Max worked as a researcher at Demo Lab in Costa Rica, leading a study on education, development, and the impact of the narco-economy on youth. His research has contributed valuable insights into the challenges facing young people and the importance of education and economic opportunity in breaking cycles of poverty.
Professionally, he remains a fierce advocate for innovations in medical research, education and the protection of freedom and democratic values. In his free time, Max enjoys playing chess, exploring new cultures, and learning Spanish.
Céline Assaf-Boustani
Céline Assaf, President of the Human Rights Foundation (HRF), leads the organization's programs and campaigns with a focus on safeguarding freedom of expression in Arabic and French-speaking countries. Since 2014, she has driven legal and advocacy initiatives within HRF's Center for Law and Democracy.
Assaf holds a Master's degree in International Law from Columbia Law School and a Master's in French Law from Pantheon-Assas Paris II, France. She is a sought-after speaker at prestigious events like the Oslo Freedom Forum, where she addresses pressing global issues. Her writings appear in top international media outlets such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, Newsweek, and L'Express.Through her leadership, Assaf continues to champion fundamental human rights and freedom of expression worldwide.
Dr. Roberto Artavia
Dr. Roberto Artavia is the President and Founder of Roberto Artavia Consultoría Internacional. With a distinguished career in academia and research, Dr. Artavia is the author of numerous books and academic articles on topics including development measurement, sustainable development, regional integration, competitive strategy, corporate governance, social responsibility, and agribusiness.
He holds a Doctorate from Harvard Business School (1992), an MBA from INCAE Business School (1982), and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point (1980).
Gabriel Baeza
Gabriel is a passionate tech enthusiast with a robust technical background and extensive business acumen. His career has been marked by collaborations with organizations across the spectrum, from small startups to large global enterprises, facilitating the achievement of business outcomes through the adoption of cutting-edge technology solutions.
He previously served as Head of Startups for Google North America, where he supported high-growth founders and helped scale transformative technologies across the region. He has also held leadership roles in strategic technology business advisory firms, guiding organizations on innovation, digital transformation, and long-term technology strategy.
Additionally, he is a Co-Founder and has served on the Board of Directors of Demo Lab Foundation since January 2016, showcasing his commitment to leveraging technology for positive societal impact.
Andrés Bruna
Andrés Bruna is a co-founder of Demo Lab and a young entrepreneur associated with the Bruna Group, a family company specializing in the international distribution of chemicals, packaging, and sourcing in Latin America. Passionate about business innovation and sustainability, he actively advocates for family businesses, participating as a speaker at international conferences and being a founding member of the Family Business Network in Central America.
Bruna holds a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) from Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, FL, and an MBA from the Sawyer School of Management in Boston, MA.
Stephanie Lips
Currently serving as a Philanthropy Advisor and Board Member of Demo Lab, Stephanie brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her roles. In 2018, she joined DonorsTrust as a philanthropy advisor focusing on planned giving.
Before her tenure at DonorsTrust, Stephanie played a pivotal role in the international expansion of the events department at the Atlas Network, organizing annual events across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. She also assumed major gift officer responsibilities and spearheaded the planned giving program at Atlas Network.
Dr. Thomas O´Toole
Dr. Thomas O’Toole is the Executive Director of Public Affairs Programming at Cornell University's Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy. In this role, Dr. O’Toole oversees the strategic direction and educational mission of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) and Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) programs. He is responsible for managing student professional development, maintaining key industry relationships, and organizing job and internship placements.
Dr. O’Toole is also the architect of the MPA Washington Externship Semester Program, which provides students with a unique, DC-based experience. In addition to his administrative duties, Thomas teaches courses on "Issues in Public Administration," "Strategic Planning in Public Administration," and "Comparative Public Administration."
Sergio Solera
Sergio Solera is a prominent attorney specializing in corporate and tax law. He boasts a robust academic background, holding a Master's in Corporate Law from New York University, a Master's in Tax Advisory from the University for International Cooperation, and a Bachelor's in Law from the University of Costa Rica.
As the Managing Partner of Facio & Cañas, Sergio leads large-scale legal projects and provides expert counsel across various legal domains. His skill and expertise have garnered international recognition, with inclusions in publications such as "Who’s Who Legal: The International Who’s Who of Business Lawyers" by Law Business Research. Additionally, he has been lauded as a corporate and real estate lawyer by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500. Alongside his experience in Costa Rica, Sergio is admitted to practice in the State of New York, enabling him to deliver high-quality legal services both domestically and internationally.
Rodrigo Soto
Rodrigo Soto is a seasoned coffee industry professional whose career is defined by performance, discipline, and long-term vision. With deep experience across the coffee value chain, he brings strategic thinking, operational rigor, and a results-oriented mindset to every challenge he takes on, from farm-level sourcing to global market execution.
As a member of the board, Rodrigo contributes a unique blend of private-sector excellence and personal integrity. His background in building systems, managing high-performance teams, and optimizing complex operations informs his role in safeguarding strategic clarity and organizational resilience. He approaches governance with the same focus he applies in business: clear goals, measurable outcomes, and a commitment to continual improvement.
Rodrigo’s philosophy is shaped by his life as an endurance athlete. He is a three-time Ironman finisher, two-time Boston Marathon qualifier, sub–3-hour marathon runner, and multiple 70.3 Ironman finisher. These milestones reflect not only physical endurance, but mental resilience, consistency, and long-term focus, the same qualities he brings to leadership and decision-making.
He believes the discipline, teamwork, and passion developed through sport translate directly into effective leadership and sustained success in the coffee world and beyond.
Leopoldo López
Leopoldo López is a Venezuelan opposition leader and prodemocracy activist. He founded the Venezuelan opposition party, Voluntad Popular, and served as mayor of the Chacao municipality in Caracas. In 2014, Leopoldo was arrested on trumped-up charges for leading peaceful, nationwide protests denouncing Nicolás Maduro’s regime. After a 19-month show trial, he was sentenced to nearly 14 years in prison.
He spent the first four years in solitary confinement in a military prison. He was subsequently placed under house arrest as a result of international pressure and outrage within Venezuela. Amnesty International named him a prisoner of conscience in 2015. Leopoldo escaped house arrest and was hosted at the Spanish embassy in Caracas. After a daring escape from Venezuela in October 2020, Leopoldo was reunited with his family in Spain, where he now lives in exile.
Today, he continues to be a leading voice in calling for democracy not only in Venezuela, but also across the globe. Leopoldo is a co-founder of the World Liberty Congress, which he strongly believes will be instrumental in unifying prodemocracy and human rights activists to combat the global trend toward authoritarianism.
Elena Vives
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Board of Directors
Emeritus Board Members
Steve Aronson
This dual-nationality agricultural economist is the founder of Café Britt and Teatro Espressivo, a theater production company that, for over two decades, has developed acclaimed stage productions such as “Mamita Yunai,” “La isla de los hombres solos,” and “Cabaret.” Since its inception, the company has staged more than 100 plays and conducted significant national and international tours with renowned artists.
He is also the president of the Asociación Cultural Teatro Espressivo (ACTE), a nonprofit organization created to support high-quality artistic innovation and promote the engagement of new audiences. ACTE has won several national awards, including the 2019 Cultural Management Award, and is responsible for the Human Rights Film Festival and Ediciones Espressivo (literature). Additionally, Aronson leads the Fundación Demain, which has been working for over a decade to support the performing arts, environmental care, and education in Costa Rica.
Abby Goldberg
Abby is a lifelong advocate, social entrepreneur, storyteller, and mother with over 20 years of experience in leading human rights organizations and over 15 years in producing, writing, and directing award-winning films and campaigns. In 2018, she founded Variant Strategies, a company that uses film to translate complex issues into compelling, actionable stories. Her work has mobilized millions, influenced over a dozen laws, prevented numerous deportations, and directed millions of dollars in public funding to underserved communities.
Before founding Variant Strategies, Abby co-founded several notable organizations, including the Global Justice Center, the New Media Advocacy Project, and A Human Right. She has led strategic advocacy campaigns across six continents, produced over 40 advocacy videos, and consulted for prominent international organizations such as UN Women, UNHCR, and the Nike Foundation. Her work has impacted clients like Brooklyn Defenders Service, the ACLU, and Hispanics in Philanthropy.
She is an alumna of the Coro Women in Leadership Program and American University's School of International Service.
Committed to lifelong learning and bridging divides, Abby believes in the power of visual storytelling to drive empathy and create a more just and equitable world. Her notable projects include the "We Have Rights" animated video series, which reached over 24 million immigrants and played a crucial role in preventing deportations, and a film that helped establish Armenia's first domestic violence law.
Margarita Herdocia
Margarita Herdocia is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist known for her leadership in various industries. She manages a diverse portfolio through her Family Office, including investments in finance, technology, healthcare, and real estate. Margarita is also involved in running popular restaurant chains like TGIFridays and KFC. Committed to creating positive social impact, she actively supports numerous philanthropic initiatives and NGOs, focusing on education, democracy, and social harmony.
Margarita's academic background includes degrees from Duke University and Columbia University’s Barnard College. She is recognized for her leadership potential as a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute and a Moderator for CALI. Margarita's achievements have been highlighted in media outlets, including a feature on the cover of Forbes Magazine for her contributions to the food franchise industry.
Dra. Camelia Ilie
Camelia Ilie is an entrepreneurial leader, advisor and professor with 30 years of experience in value creation, strategy, innovation and P&L management in organizations in Europe, Latin America and the U.S. She is Dean of Strategy and Institutional Affairs, Chair of the Leadership Center and Professor at INCAE, a leading business school in Latin America. During the last decade, together with an excellent team of leaders, they transformed the business model of Executive Education to position it in the Top 25 of the Financial Times world ranking. In addition, they created an online education start-up, in alliance with Emeritus, a world leader in educational technology. Up to 6,500 participants from more than 15 countries studied annually in the areas he has led.
He leads programs for presidents, CEOs and boards of directors to help them improve their governance systems, focusing on competitiveness, strategy, change management, succession planning, digital transformation and innovation. She has also worked with leading corporations such as Banco Santander, Gas Natural, Iberdrola, PWC, Inter-American Development Bank, Bankinter, Telefónica, Iberia, Maersk, Copa Airlines, on leadership and change programs following M&A, procurement or strategic business transformation transactions. He is a member and Chair Emeritus of the External Advisory Board of the Institute for Advanced Studies of the University of Miami. He has been a member of the Advisory Council for Latin America of the American Association of Colleges and Schools of Business (AACSB), of the Board of Trustees of LASPAU and of the Excellence in Practice Awards of the European Foundation for Management Development, among others.
Through the opportunity to work with many industries and countries, she has developed the ability to work in multicultural groups and have a global perspective. Her strengths are developing high-performance teams and managing complexity, strategy, innovation, and trend analysis to identify opportunities and anticipate change. Trained as an engineer with a doctorate in business administration, she was a research fellow at the Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies at Harvard University. In LaRevista, Harvard Review for Latin America, she writes in the column "Perspective in time of change". Dr. Ilie also researches and writes on higher education, business school models, MBA programs, women's entrepreneurship and leadership. In recognition of her work, she received the Women's Economic Forum's Woman of the Decade Award in Education and Leadership in Latin America and is listed in Forbes magazine's list of the 100 most powerful women in Central America and the Caribbean.
Alberto Kader
Alberto Kader, the President and CEO of Genera Holdings and a board member of Demo Lab, brings over 25 years of expertise in investment and real estate development to the forefront. Holding a degree in Business Administration from the University of Austin, Texas, Alberto has significantly impacted the landscapes of both the United States and Costa Rica. Renowned for his role in projects like Forum 1 and Forum 2 office parks, Bosques de Lindora and La Hacienda residential condominiums, and Terrazas Lindora shopping center, he has played a key role in shaping Costa Rica's real estate sector.
As a founding President of the Consejo de Desarrollo Inmobiliario de Costa Rica (CODI) and an active member of organizations such as the Urban Land Institute, Alberto demonstrates a commitment to responsible land use and community development. His leadership extends to various roles, including Vice President of the Costa Rican Chamber of Commerce and directorship in CINDE, Pizzerías LLC, and Glacier Global Partners. Beyond real estate, Alberto has diversified into renewable energy, showcasing his dedication to sustainable development in Latin America and the United States.
Dra. Tina Nabatchi
Tina Nabatchi is the Joseph A. Strasser Professor of Public Administration and Professor of Public Administration and International Affairs at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, where she also serves as Director of the Program for the Advancement of Research on Conflict and Collaboration (PARCC). An elected Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, Dr. Nabatchi's research focuses on collaborative governance, citizen engagement, conflict resolution, and challenges in public administration. Dr. Nabatchi has won several university, national and international awards for her research and teaching. She holds a B.A. from American University, an MPA from the University of Vermont and a Ph.D. from Indiana University.
Dr. Alberto Trejos
Alberto Trejos, with a distinguished academic background, including a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, has left a significant mark both in academia and public service. His tenure as Minister of Foreign Trade in Costa Rica, where he spearheaded pivotal negotiations such as CAFTA, underscored his expertise in international trade and economic policy. Additionally, his contributions as President of CINDE, along with his involvement in shaping regulatory frameworks like CONASSIF, demonstrate his commitment to fostering economic growth and stability.
Beyond his governmental roles, Trejos' influence extends globally through his leadership positions in organizations like the Brenthurst Foundation and the Democracy Lab, where he continues to advocate for sustainable development and democratic principles. As a trusted advisor to governments, international bodies, and corporations across diverse regions, his insights and guidance have played a crucial role in shaping policies and strategies aimed at promoting economic prosperity and social progress. Currently, he continues to leverage his expertise as Vice President at Cuestamoras Corporation and through his engagements with BAC-Credomatic Bank, alongside his consultancy roles at CEFSA and DRP, ensuring his ongoing impact on economic and social development initiatives worldwide.
Enrique Uribe
Enrique is a young Costa Rican, passionate about marine conservation and the blue economy. Since a teenager, Enrique has been actively involved with local sustainability movements through non-governmental organisations and led protests against the consumption of shark fin in Costa Rica. Currently, Enrique is part of the non-profit organisation Misión Tiburón and the GalloPintoTV digital platform. In 2018, Enrique was part of the Misión Tiburón team that created the first Shark Sanctuary in Costa Rica. Through underwater photographs, publications and talks, this young Costa Rican seeks to promote the sustainable development of Costa Rican coastal communities. In his spare time, Enrique is in the sea practicing scuba, surfing and responsible fishing.
José Víquez
José R. Víquez is an accomplished executive in corporate affairs, communications, and public policy, with extensive experience driving strategic initiatives across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors in Latin America. He has a proven track record in strengthening institutional reputation, fostering stakeholder engagement, and promoting sustainable development and governance practices.
Throughout his career, José has successfully led projects that bridge business, government, and civil society, creating partnerships that drive economic growth and social impact. He combines deep expertise in strategic communications, policy advocacy, and corporate strategy with a passion for innovation and positive change in the communities he serves.
Recognized for his leadership, José is committed to leveraging his knowledge and networks to advance organizational goals while fostering long-term value and resilience. His work reflects a strong dedication to integrity, collaboration, and building meaningful connections that deliver measurable results.
Operating Team
Nia Demming
CEONia Demming brings a cross-sector background that spans NGOs, private equity, and executive advisory, giving her a rare blend of strategic, operational, and partnership-building experience. She has worked on institution-building, leadership development, and organizational transformation projects in multiple international contexts.
As CEO of the Demo Lab Foundation, Nia leads the institution’s strategic roadmap and ensures all programs deliver with excellence. She oversees the refinement and scale of Freedom Academy, guiding its academic standards, platform experience, and expansion into a regional civic education model. She also directs programming and ecosystem growth for the BLISS Summit, strengthens Demo Lab’s stakeholder ecosystem, and represents the Foundation publicly as a voice for civic engagement, freedom, and democratic renewal.
Nia holds a BA in International Relations from the University of Birmingham and is pursuing an MPA at Cornell University. She is deeply committed to building freer, more self-sustaining societies and building opportunities for people to take action in their communities.
Alejandro Rivas
PresidentAlejandro Rivas is an experienced operator with roots in finance, operations, organizational sustainability, and the execution of complex, multi-stakeholder projects across both nonprofit and private-sector environments.
He is known for building systems that scale and for bringing structure, discipline, and precision into growing organizations.
As President of the Demo Lab Foundation, Alejandro leads internal operations, team performance, and the systems that power Demo Lab’s growth.
Alejandro holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Universidad Central de Venezuela and an MBA with a focus on finance and sustainability from INCAE Business School. Alejandro brings steadiness, discipline, and a systems-building mindset to Demo Lab’s most ambitious goals.Andrés Bruna
CFOAndrés Bruna is a co-founder of Demo Lab and an entrepreneur with deep experience in international distribution, operations, and family enterprise leadership. As part of the Bruna Group, a regional company focused on chemicals, packaging, and sourcing, he has developed expertise in cross-border supply chains, financial oversight, and high-stakes commercial negotiations. He is also an active advocate for the role of family businesses in economic development, speaking at international conferences and helping launch the Family Business Network in Central America.
At Demo Lab, Andrés serves as Chief Financial Officer, where he oversees the Foundation’s financial strategy, transparency, and long-term sustainability. He manages financial controls, budgeting, donor reporting, and multi-year forecasting, ensuring the organization grows with discipline and maintains the trust of its philanthropic partners. His strategic and analytical approach supports Demo Lab’s expansion across civic education, events, and regional programming.
He holds a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) from Florida International University and an MBA from the Sawyer School of Management in Boston.
Valeria Gallegos De Oña
Deputy Chief of StaffValeria Gallegos De Oña is a graduate in Political Science and International Studies from Indiana University and is currently completing an MPA at Northwestern.
From an early age, she has been driven by a strong sense of the common good and a desire to help others. Valeria’s background includes roles at CINDE in Costa Rica and Habitat for Humanity in Australia.
At Demo Lab, Valeria serves as Deputy Chief of Staff, carrying out special projects across the organization with a focus on fundraising, partnership management, program management, and team development.
Jimmyr Centeno
Marketing and Data AssociateJimmyr Centeno is an international relations professional with a focus on youth leadership, education, and community engagement. As an Operations, Marketing, and Data Associate at Demo Lab, he applies his expertise in research, data analysis, communications, and digital operations to strengthen program delivery across the organization.
Jimmyr has been part of Demo Lab since the launch of the Freedom Academy, contributing essential operational and infrastructural support that enables scale, quality, and learner experience.
His experience also includes work with respected UN agencies such as UNICEF Costa Rica and IOM Costa Rica, where he supported initiatives for children and young people. From an early age, Jimmyr has been committed to equipping youth with the tools, confidence, and opportunities needed to grow, lead, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Mila Segura
Project Manager and Executive AssistantHolding dual degrees in Electrical and Electromechanical Engineering, complemented by studies in Sociology, Mila excels at the intersection of project management, partnerships, and community impact. She integrates technical expertise with a passion for public-private collaboration to drive community impact.
Mila's commitment to community development is reflected in her background of work with organizations such as TECHO and PANI.
At Demo Lab, Mila wears many hats. Within the Freedom Academy, she leads the Freedom & Community programs, which bring civic learning into communities through experiential activations that connect identity, civic agency, and practical problem-solving. Her work ensures that Demo Lab’s educational model is not only scalable, but deeply rooted in real communities and lived experience.