Andres was born and raised in the Colombian Capital City, Bogata, 2700metres above sea level population 10 million (Colombia 50Million) and chaotic to live in. Also kind of cold and misty as opposed to closer to sea level communities warm and humid.. Strategically placed in the centre of the country. There are no seasons in Colombia as its on the equator. Its the only South American country that has both the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean on its coastline.
Spanish speaking, it originally included Panama, Venezuela and Equador. There are no borders in South American countries free travel is allowed similar to Europe.
All countries have a form of peso as their currency. $1NZ to 2500 Colombian pesos. Colombia is a thriving democracy 80% of the population are Roman Catholic's. Important strategic partner of the USA.
Andres has 3 degrees in Business from Colombia, Austria and New Zealand (International Business) just graduated with a masters from IPU Universal Tertiary Institute (specialising in International studies).
He was a Rotary Exchange student in USA and has maintained his connection with Rotary wherever he goes.
He's in New Plymouth with his partner Nicola Johnson who was attracted here through buying a Kiwi build in Marfell.
Currently he's working in early childhood education, but is keen to work in any organisation that promotes teaching English to International students. He was doing this in Colombia and connected students with institutions in places like Australia.
He was quick to point out that while many would associate Colombia with drug trafficking that the country has moved on since Pablo Escobar (in the 90's). It has abundant cheap fruit and vegetables indeed a much wider and cheaper resource than New Zealand. Its the Number 1 Emerald producer in the world, Number 2 in Flower exports, Number 3 in Coffee production.
Some other impressive resources are mentioned in the following slide.
Andres's very interesting talk generated plenty of questions and discussion. Thanked by Michael Archer.
