10/28/2025
Know Luis Felipe Duchicela, President and CEO of ISP Global.
Recognized global leader and advocate for Indigenous Peoples’ rights and sustainable development, with over two decades of experience in international development across government, multilateral, private, and non-profit sectors. Former Global Advisor at USAID and the World Bank with a proven track record in designing and managing high-impact programs in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Combining a Yale MPPM degree with deep field experience, Luis Felipe has led groundbreaking initiatives with organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance and Amazon Conservation Association, focusing on biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and Indigenous empowerment.
As Ecuador’s first National Secretary for Indigenous Peoples and Ethnic Minorities, he pioneered the $50 million World Bank-funded development program for Indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorian communities. A strategic leader in social and environmental policy, he excels at forging partnerships among governments, corporations, civil society, and Indigenous organizations, especially in complex political contexts.
Fluent communicator, relationship builder, and skilled conflict mitigator with a global network spanning donors, government agencies, and grassroots organizations.
Languages: English (fluent), Spanish (native), French (basic), Kichwa (basic)
He holds a Masters in Economics – Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito – 2022; a Master’s in public and private administration (MPPM), School of Management – Yale University, New Haven – 1984; and is a graduate of Architecture and Urban Planning – Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito – 1979
His Professional Experience:
Global Advisor on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights and Sustainable Development – Independent Consultant | Global | 2024–Present
Vice President, Global Indigenous and Community Engagement – BHP, Global Corporate Affairs | Santiago, Chile | 2022–2024
Senior Advisor for Indigenous Peoples’ Issues – USAID Inclusive Development Hub | Washington, D.C. | 2019–2022
Global Advisor on Indigenous Peoples – The World Bank | Washington, D.C. | 2013–2018
Executive Director – Amazon Conservation Association | Washington, D.C. | 2011–2013
Regional Project Director (Chief of Party) – Rainforest Alliance / USAID Andean Amazon Initiative | Quito, Ecuador | 2007–2011
Regional Project Director (Chief of Party) – USAID–Rainforest Alliance Certified Sustainable Products Alliance | Guatemala City, Guatemala | 2005–2006
Deputy Chief of Party – USAID/Ecuador Northern Border (ProNorte) – Associates for Rural Development, Inc. | Quito, Ecuador | 2003–2004
Deputy Chief of Party / Senior Advisor – USAID/Bolivia – Development Alternatives, Inc. | Cochabamba, Bolivia | 2002–2003
