Leadership Without Borders: Identity, Inclusion & Innovation Across Cultures

Join the Australia Latam Emerging Leaders Dialogue (ALELD) on Thursday, 20 November for Leadership Without Borders: Identity, Inclusion & Innovation Across Cultures.

This inspiring 1.5 hour event celebrates the intersection of culture, language, and inclusive leadership across Australia and Latin America. Designed for students, young professionals, and anyone interested in leadership in diverse, multicultural contexts, the session offers insights, inspiration, and meaningful connections.

Hear directly from Latin American and Australian leaders shaping diplomacy, policy, local and federal government and social enterprise, and explore how identity, inclusion, and innovation intersect to drive leadership across cultures.

We will also be launching our second edition of our mentorship program, offering participants the opportunity to connect with experienced leaders, gain guidance, and build lasting professional relationships.

Highlights of the evening include:

• Panel Discussion & Q&A: Learn from our panel speakers’ personal experiences, career journeys, and insights as diverse leaders navigating global industries.

• Networking Hour: Connect with experts and like-minded peers in a relaxed environment while expanding your professional network.

• Mentorship Program Launch: After a transformative launch in 2024, the 2025 program returns with a refined structure, greater inclusivity, and expanded opportunities for growth. Connect with mentors, build lasting cross-cultural relationships, and take the next bold step in your leadership journey.

Registration is FREE! RSVP now to secure your place. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore inclusive leadership, cultural collaboration, and innovation on a global scale.

Meet Our Panellists

HE Mr Ernesto Céspedes Oropesa - Ambassador of Mexico to Australia

Ernesto Cespedes has an extensive career in diplomacy. He has held various positions, including Ambassador of Mexico to Finland; Consul General of Mexico in Guangzhou, China; Deputy Head of Mission at the Consulate General of Mexico in Frankfurt, Germany and Consul at the Consulate General of Mexico in San Francisco, USA.

He also served as an Exchange Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Canada; as a Professor and Visiting Diplomat at the School of International Service, American University, and as Senior Fellow at the Center for North American Studies, both in Washington, D.C.

At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Mexico, Ambassador Cespedes served as Director General for Global Issues, where he coordinated and implemented Mexico's multilateral foreign policy on various topics including environmental issues, gender equality, organised crime, refuge and migration.

Throughout his career, he has been involved in consular affairs, human rights, diplomatic security, and crisis management. Ambassador Cespedes holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM), a Master's degree in International Public Policy from the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) at Johns Hopkins University, and a Master's degree in National Security and Defense from the Army and Air Force University of Mexico.

Diana Nelson - Director of LATAM and Caribbean, DFAT

Diana Nelson is Director the Latin America and Caribbean Section at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Her overseas roles include Ambassador to Peru and Bolivia (2018-2021), Political Counsellor in New Delhi, and Deputy Ambassador in Chile. 

In Canberra, she has held several positions including in the Southeast Asia Division of DFAT, as well as the International Division of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. 

Diana also worked as a senior advisor to Foreign Minister Rudd in 2010-2011. After training as a lawyer, Ms Nelson joined DFAT in 1996. She has been posted to Kenya, Chile, India and Peru.  

Andrea Diaz - People and Culture Capability, ACT Government

Andrea Diaz is an international lawyer originally from Colombia, now based in Australia since 2007. With extensive experience in the government sector, she played a key role in a reform project with the ACT Education Directorate, transitioning 275 outsourced ACT school cleaners to direct employment with the ACT Government.

Andrea currently works at the Suburban Land Agency (ACT Government) within the People, Culture and Capability team. Andrea brings a strong portfolio of expertise in global business and migration law, workplace advocacy for foreign workers, and employer sponsorship compliance. She acts as a legal bridge between Colombia and Australia, offering immigration support to clients from diverse backgrounds. Her deep understanding of cultural diversity, combined with governance experience, positions her to lead, mentor, and advocate effectively across community and professional networks.

Andrea has served on key ACT community boards, including the Multicultural Advisory Council, as a Multicultural Mental Health Ambassador, and as Chair of the CALD Network within the Education Directorate. She is also the founder of LATAM Lawyers Australia, a professional network supporting Latin American legal professionals and communities in Australia.

Andrea is a proud mother of two beautiful daughters whose unwavering support has been instrumental in her journey. Without their love and encouragement, Andrea wouldn’t be where she is today. She finds joy in outdoor adventures, the rhythm of music, and the thrill of exploring new places, embracing life with passion and gratitude every step of the way.

Vanessa Brettel - Social Entrepreneur and CEO, Stepping Stone

Vanessa Bretell is a social entrepreneur and climate advocate passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for women, refugees, children, and Indigenous communities. As the founding CEO of Café Stepping Stone, she leads one of Canberra’s most inspiring work-integration social enterprises, providing training and employment to migrant women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Named 2025 Australian of the Year Local Hero alongside co-founder - Hannah Costello, Vanessa combines her commitment to social and environmental impact with a belief in business as a force for empowerment and change.

Through innovation, sustainability, and compassion, she continues to redefine how inclusive communities are built, one cup of coffee at a time.

Getting There

Parking is available around the Leonard Huxley Building, with plenty of street parking and access to university parking areas.

After 5:00 PM, parking is free, however 'Reserved ANU parking' spots are still enforced.

Please also keep an eye out for signage near the venue to help direct you to the event location.