María Sanz de Santamaría
Project: Empowering small cacao post-conflict farmer communities in Colombia to reach their fullest potential through co-creating their preferred future
This research project will explore how systems thinking, and strategic foresight can inform a strategy that empowers smallholder post-conflict cacao farmers in Colombia after the signature of the peace accords in 2016. Several studies have confirmed that smallholder post-conflict farmers’ full potential cannot be actualized due to the indirect and direct impacts of the armed conflict in their lives and wellbeing (Arias and Ibañez, 2012). Furthermore, in the current post-conflict phase, smallholder cocoa farmers have not been able to reach this potential because of current challenges in fair trade, lack of government infrastructure and delays in the implementation of the Integral Rural Reform (RRI) which was one of the six mandates of the peace accords (Aldana et al., n.d.). These complexities result in a conundrum for smallholder farmers as this halts their expansion into larger market opportunities and hinders their economic growth. Consequently, this gap could be looked upon as an opportunity for a systemic design intervention. In this sense, this project aims to allow these impacted communities to reach their fullest potential through creating a flourishing business model that builds upon the resiliency of the victims of the internal conflict that has extended for over sixty years in the country.
Maria is a dynamic and forward-thinking master's student in Strategic Foresight and Innovation, seeking a position where she can contribute strategic insights and innovative solutions. She drives change through her passion for innovation, solid leadership, and an analytical approach. She firmly believes in the transformative power of design and innovation to bridge gaps and create seamless connections, guiding collective efforts towards success in collaborative environments.