Ignacio Patron-Gonzalez is a Co-Founder of the PATESI Foundation and is currently serving as an advisor. Mr. Patron was born in the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua.

He holds a Master Degree in Sustainable Development: International Policy and Management, and a Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Security: International Policy and Practice. Both degrees were obtained from the School for International Training-S.I.T. For his undergraduate studies, he has degrees in International Relations and Political Science from University of Mobile, and a Pre- Med degree from Northern Virginia Community College.

Mr. Patron has experience in International Management, Policy and Sustainable Development with proven leadership experience working with intercultural teams in varied business, policy, non-profit and community development contexts. In addition, he has experience with cross- functional budgets, finance, technology and operations skills applied to support project management excellence. Further skills include; strong expertise in the Latin American Region with bilingual communication skills applied to enhance diplomatic collaboration, administration and client service-related roles.

His work experience includes:

• Land and Resource Rights Initiatives at World Resources Institute, Washington D.C.

• President and CEO at SUKAWALA Organization, Nicaragua

• Chief Fraud Investigator for Consular affairs, United States Embassy, Nicaragua

• Assistant to the General Consulate, United States Embassy-Quito, Ecuador