Latin America

In China, NGOs often collaborate with multinational companies to promote sustainability among their suppliers. This “two-step influence model” allows NGOs to indirectly influence local firms. The success of these collaborations depends on alignment with government priorities, with stronger impacts where the environment is a lower priority. Multinationals benefit from local knowledge and networks through these partnerships but must carefully manage trust and expectations.

Aline Gatignon of the Wharton School and Laurence Capron of INSEAD examined how Natura, a leading Brazilian cosmetics company, achieved success by building a strong and collaborative business ecosystem. Faced with underdeveloped infrastructure, limited access to capital, and other institutional weaknesses common to developing countries, Natura adopted a unique strategy, fostering deep relationships with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, suppliers, NGOs, and government agencies. This strategy, focused on empowering communities and building trust, allowed Natura to overcome obstacles, achieve sustainable growth, and generate positive social impact. In light of these achievements, Natura's approach offers valuable lessons for other businesses seeking to thrive in similar environments.

On October 11th and 12th, Northeastern University welcomed the 10th edition of the BRASA Summit Américas, bringing over 500 students from across the US and Canada for a weekend of connections and learning.

Dahlia Broberg and Heidi Ho, Spring 2025 recipients of the Srinivasan Family Awards for Projects in Emerging Markets, launched a music therapy program in Shandia, Ecuador, to address adolescent mental health challenges through structured musical engagement and community partnership.

Carolina Pacheco-Balcazar, a fourth-year Economics and Political Science major from Puebla, Mexico, is investigating how solar energy can alleviate poverty in these communities with support from the Center for Emerging Markets' Srinivasan Family Awards program.