UrbanPromise Latin America believes that…

the most powerful way to affect transformation is through local leadership development. We have decided to face the problems that our young people face today, through the formation and training of young visionaries.

The UrbanPromise Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership (UPCEL) is our 12-month fellowship that equips visionary leaders to successfully launch new entrepreneurial efforts that support vulnerable youth.

Our theory-based curriculum starts with leadership development. It explores the Latin American cultural context, crafting a holistic response, strategic planning for project development, and communicating the vision across networks to see it become a reality.

Fellows become more confident in their skills and develop more clarity around their vision as they are exposed to various training opportunities in theory and practice. They are unique and separate activities yet work together to create a servant leader.

Our fellows immerse themselves in hands-on training and practical experience by rotating through programs at UrbanPromise Honduras—experiencing our AfterSchool programs, Summer Camps, Youth Programs, and UrbanTrekkers. They also tour other non-profits in Copán Ruinas and throughout the region to learn and adapt best practices.

At the end of the year, fellows are given the opportunity to present their project proposals and request seed capital.

“Fellowship” = our fellowship is an opportunity to practice and study at a high and formal level, deepening knowledge and preparing leaders to continue growing and see how they can put their vision into practice.

“Fellow” = a professional intern. In our case, being a fellow is an opportunity to learn in the UPH ministry context, while sharing their own experiences and preparing for the next phase of ministry in their community.

UrbanPromise began in Camden, New Jersey, USA, in 1988 as a means to equip Camden’s children and young adults with the skills necessary for academic achievement, life management, spiritual growth, and Christian leadership. The model has now spread to 36 sites across the globe.

In 2009, UrbanPromise International was birthed, launching UPCEL in the United States. Since then, more than 60 leaders have been trained in Non-Profit management, fundraising, program development, Christian leadership, financial management, and board development. The results have been impressive and leaders have returned to their communities to establish thriving NGOs.

Responding to the need for a program that can be delivered in Spanish, in 2018 a branch of UPCEL was founded in Latin America at the UrbanPromise Honduras site. This environment has created a space where leaders from Central and South America can come to serve, and return to their communities inspired and equipped to live out their own vision in their community.