Our Team
Most of our team came together working for Sustainable Harvest International's 28-year agroecology training program in Panama.
Since Mandela is taking a business approach to agroecology, we added an MBA with marketing and admin experience to our team.
The founding team, volunteered their time for a year to lay the groundwork for Mandela's launch in October 2025.
Leadership
Florence Reed, CEO
Co-founder and lead entrepreneurship organizer, Flo has been a driving force behind agroecology training programs in Central America for over 34 years. She started with the Peace Corps in 1991 in Panama, but quickly founded Sustainable Harvest International (SHI) in 1997, increasing her impact from 25 families in one country to 1,300 families in four countries.
LinkedIn
Daysbeth Lopez, Agroecology Manager
Co-founder and lead agroecology organizer, Daysbeth worked for nearly 20 years as one of the most successful agroecology extension agents at SHI, helping over 100 small farmers adopt agroecological practices.
Liz Castroverde, Business Manager
Co-founder and lead business organizer, Liz is a dedicated professional focused on effective management, administration, and the adoption of digital tools. She has an MBA and 12 years of experience in strategic planning, technology management, and marketing.
LinkedInAgroecology Advisors
Kellys Lorenzo
Kellys takes on the role of agroecology advisor at Mandela after many years as an agroecology extension agent with Sustainable Harvest International.
Rubiel Perez
Rubiel is an agronomist from a family of coffee farmers who inspired his love for sustainable agriculture. He has worked with farmers in remote areas through several organizations, most recently, Sustainable Harvest International.