Maria A. Castillo is a young professional with eight years of experience in the field of education, public policy, and social services. She has been involved in the creation and execution of health education and social intervention projects at various non-profits, which have been valued at more than 1.5 million dollars for the prevention of drug abuse and violence among Nicaraguan adolescents. Interventions that she has led have directly impacted over 14,000 youth, influenced over 50,000 families, and empowered over 500 teachers. Currently, Maria leads the fundraising and partnerships efforts of Casa Alianza Nicaragua, one of the few centers in the country that offers holistic and innovative treatments for youth experiencing drug addiction and/or abuse. Maria received her Masters in Education, Health Promotion and International Development at University College London’s Institute of Education where she was a Chevening Scholar, a prestigious scholarship scheme for global leaders by the U.K.’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. During her time in London, she represented Nicaragua at the 2017 World Education Form. As an undergraduate, she obtained a BA in psychology and a Minor in Biology at Manhattanville College, New York.