📍Buenos Aires, Argentina
March 28th-31st, 2025
The LOLA Leadership Retreat was held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from March 28th to 31st, bringing together 24 LOLA Chapter leaders, members, and staff from across Latin America.
The main objective of the retreat was to empower participants with key leadership tools and strategies to become stronger advocates for liberty in their communities.
Over the course of four days, attendees engaged in enriching workshops, exchanged experiences of activism, and built lasting connections.
The retreat created an inspiring and transformative environment, leaving everyone motivated and better prepared to expand the reach of LOLA and the message of freedom throughout the region.
Friday, March 28th, 2025
The Story of LOLA & Personal Paths to Liberty
Izabela Patriota, Director of Development, LOLA
Agustina Sosa, Former Leader of LOLA Argentina
The retreat officially began on Friday with a warm welcome and opening dinner. Afterwards, Izabela Patriota, LOLA’s Director of Development, and Agustina Sosa, leader of LOLA Argentina, shared the inspiring story of LOLA — from its origins to becoming an international network empowering women to lead and promote the values of liberty.
Following their presentation, participants opened up about their personal journeys to discovering the ideas of liberty, and how they found their place within the LOLA community. It was a powerful moment of connection and shared purpose that set the tone for the days to come.
Saturday, March 29th, 2025
Networking for Leadership
Izabela Patriota, LOLA’s Director of Development
The session provided valuable tools and strategies for building meaningful connections and expanding one’s influence as a leader.
After the workshop, participants engaged in a fun and meaningful Swag and Cultural Exchange, where each attendee brought items from their home country — from snacks and small gifts to symbolic objects. With over 10 countries represented in the room, the exchange was a beautiful celebration of the diversity and richness of the LOLA network.
Civil Society in a Liberal Government
Dulcinea Etchebarne, Fundación Libertad y Progreso
Dulcinea shared insights on the role of libertarian movements and civil society when facing both populist and liberal governments, bringing in relevant cases and sparking thoughtful discussion.
Feminism from Liberty perspective
Mélina Vázquez and Carolina Spatar
In the afternoon, we welcomed scholars Mélina and Carolina, academic researchers on libertarian feminism in Argentina, who led a thought-provoking session on “Libertarian Feminism”. They explored how feminist ideas can align with liberal values and how to foster open dialogue in today’s social and political landscape
Afterward, participants joined an interactive LOLA Bingo — a networking activity with fun prompts and personal questions designed to encourage conversations and connections. The goal was for participants to get to know each other more deeply and discover shared experiences, values, and stories.
How to Develop Successful Projects
Claudia Gracia from Atlas Network
Later, Claudia facilitated a practical session where attendees worked in groups to brainstorm and plan real initiatives they could bring to life in their communities.
Elevator Pitch Competition:
Be the First LOLA to Become President of Your Country!
The day concluded with the Evelvator Pitch where each participant had just one minute to deliver a powerful pitch explaining why she should be the first LOLA president. Members of the Buenos Aires Chapter served as judges, bringing an extra layer of excitement and encouragement to the challenge. The 2025 LATAM winner was LOLA Peru leader, Brigitte Mendoza.
To end the day, we enjoyed a traditional Argentine dinner at a local restaurant, followed by Mixer Night—a vibrant social gathering that brought together LOLAs and liberty-minded guests from other organizations in Buenos Aires. The evening was filled with laughter, dancing, meaningful conversations, and a shared sense of purpose, further strengthening our global community.
Sunday, March 30th, 2025
Communication, Exchange & Chapter Building
Sunday began with a professional photo session — both individual and group portraits — to capture the essence of each LOLA leader and the powerful energy of the retreat. These moments became symbolic of the growth, presence, and leadership these women represent in their countries.
From TV to iPhone
María Eugenia Nágera, communications expert.
The first workshop of the day led by María Eugenia, shared insights from her professional journey, teaching participants how to navigate the media landscape and communicate compelling messages across different platforms, from traditional TV to digital content for mobile phones.
Following this, participants dove into an energizing Speed Networking activity — a fast-paced dynamic designed to help them connect more deeply by sharing personal stories, leadership experiences, and practical tips. The room buzzed with conversation, laughter, and the beginning of many lasting friendships.
The retreat then welcomed the LOLA Latin America Regional Team to officially introduce themselves, Lourdes Romero (Regional Director for Alliances and Sponsorships), Marian Sara (Regional Director for leaders and chapter support), Nathaly Mérida (Regional Director for Community and Training), Adriana Flores (Regional Director for New Leaders) . They presented their roles, shared how they will support local chapters moving forward, and emphasized the importance of building a strong and interconnected regional network.
Building Strong and Successful LOLA Chapters in Latin America
Nathaly Mérida, LOLA program chapter coordinator & Regional Director for Community and Training
Dalila Lisboa, LOLA Leadership Retreats Coordinator
Nathaly and Dalila provided practical tools for developing leadership structures, creating national and local boards, and implementing strategic planning to make each Chapter sustainable and impactful.
Exchange of Experiences
Adriana Flores, LOLA communitations team & regional director for new leaders
The day continued with Adriana in a session created a space for LOLA leaders to reflect on their journeys, share lessons learned, and gather inspiration and ideas from fellow Chapter leaders across Latin America. Adriana also offered guidance on optimizing internal LOLA processes for smoother collaboration and impact.
Before the closing, Izabela Patriota led a meaningful activity titled “Letters to Our Donors”. Participants wrote heartfelt letters to the individuals and organizations who made the retreat possible, recognizing the importance of generosity in sustaining leadership programs like this.
Finally, the retreat came to a close with a Closing Ceremony and Certificate Presentation. There were words of gratitude, reflection, and celebration. Special recognition was given to Lourdes Romero, leader of LOLA Bolivia, as the standout leader of the region in 2025.
The ceremony also honored the courage of Maria Oropeza, a LOLA leader and Venezuelan political activist who attended last year’s retreat and is currently imprisoned for her political work — a moving reminder of the stakes and the importance of defending liberty.
To wrap up an unforgettable Sunday at the LOLA LATAM Leadership Retreat, we experienced one of Argentina’s most iconic cultural traditions—a live tango show in Buenos Aires. From the passionate performances to the rich storytelling through dance, the evening was a celebration of local heritage and a perfect finale to a weekend of learning, connection, and empowerment. It was a beautiful reminder that liberty isn’t just about ideas—it’s also about culture, joy, and shared experiences.
Monday, March 31st, 2025
Exploring the Heart of Buenos Aires
The final day of the LOLA Retreat LATAM blended culture, connection, and discovery in the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires. After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, the LOLAs gathered in the lobby, ready for a day of exploration and inspiration.
The day kicked off with a special visit to the Legislature of Buenos Aires where participants were warmly welcomed by Silvia Imas, a current legislator and passionate advocate for freedom. After that, the participants had the opportunity to appreciate the significance of democratic institutions and civic engagement. From there, they embarked on a guided tour through the historic center of the city, including Plaza de Mayo and surrounding landmarks—soaking in the rich history that shaped Argentina’s path to freedom.
A delightful lunch followed at London City, a historic café where laughter, ideas, and stories were shared one last time in an atmosphere full of warmth and solidarity.
The afternoon continued with a stroll through San Telmo, one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods of the city, known for its cobblestone streets, local artisans, and cultural flair.
That evening, participants enjoyed an optional nighttime visit to nearby spots around Recoleta Cementery. It was a memorable conclusion to a weekend filled with learning, sisterhood, and a renewed sense of purpose in advancing liberty across Latin America.
Thank you to our sponsors and donors!
LOLA would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and played a part in making the LOLA Latin & Central America retreat a resounding success. From our outstanding donors and sponsors to the amazing women who participated, you all contributed to an experience that inspired and empowered. The connections forged during the retreat will undoubtedly continue to uplift and strengthen the attendees for a long time to come. Thank you all for being a part of something truly special!
