Since its founding in July 2023 by two D'Amore-McKim School of Business students from Argentina, the Latin American Business Club (LBC) has quickly become a cornerstone for Latin American students at Northeastern University. More than just a club, it's a vibrant community where members can celebrate shared values, tackle challenges, and pursue professional growth together.
Centered around interdisciplinary learning and leadership, LBC aims to create a dynamic, inclusive environment for members to connect with business leaders, gain hands-on experience, and build lasting friendships. “The club really helped me adjust and adapt to this new stage in life,” says Paulina Madero, DMSB '25, LBC's president and a student from Monterrey, Mexico. “Meeting people who share your language and culture makes a world of difference. It's comforting and empowering.” For Madero, LBC embodies its mission of creating a “family away from home” for students from across Latin America.
In just over a year, the club has attracted around 250 members, including many D'Amore-Mckim students. Its influence is visible in the caliber of its events and the strength of the connections being made. Members are learning directly from high-profile speakers like the CEO of LATAM Airlines and Jamil Mahuad, the former president of Ecuador, who both shared personal insights into their careers and the socio-political landscape of Latin America. “Listening to these figures brings home the reality that they started just like us,” says Madero. “They're driven by the same desire to inspire and lead in their communities.”
Navigating the business world as Latin American students in the U.S. presents unique challenges, from cultural adjustments to professional obstacles. LBC's mission is to equip members with the tools they need to excel. Through workshops on topics like resume building, Linkedin optimization, and interview preparation, the club empowers students to embrace their backgrounds and showcase the strengths that diversity brings. “When I applied for my first co-op, I learned to leverage my background as a strength,” Madero shares. “You have to take advantage of the diversity you bring to the table. And knowing you're not alone in this journey makes all the difference.”
The club's future goals focus on expanding its professional network by building partnerships with companies in the U.S. and Latin America. Madero and Del Punta envision more robust support for members through exclusive internships, co-op opportunities, and mentorships, all geared toward helping students overcome barriers and thrive.
For LBC, the long-term vision is clear: to create a legacy that outlasts individual club tenures. Plans include building a mentorship pipeline where alumni guide the next generation and community-building initiatives, from cultural celebrations to social mixers, to strengthen the Latin American ceiling community and ensure every member feels a sense of belonging.