Who we are
Founded in April 2013, PEACE Punta de Mita is a non-profit organization located on the North Shore of Banderas Bay in Nayarit, created to serve the communities of Emiliano Zapata, Corral del Risco, and Higuera Blanca. Born from the passion and commitment of a small group of part-time residents, PEACE’s work continues to grow with the love and support of compassionate individuals, whose generous contributions make its initiatives possible.
MISSION
Empowering the communities of Punta de Mita by providing high-quality educational programs that foster self-reliance, growth, and active participation.
Through innovative initiatives and a collaborative approach, PEACE aims to create lasting change, ensuring that individuals have the tools to succeed in today’s world. By promoting education as a cornerstone for social development, PEACE drives not only academic achievement but also strengthens community pride, resilience, and sustainability for future generations.
VISION
PEACE envisions a future where the communities of Punta de Mita thrive through accessible and transformative educational programs. By fostering collaboration and empowering individuals, PEACE seeks to build a sustainable foundation for growth, providing the tools and opportunities necessary for lifelong learning. With a focus on inclusivity, the organization aims to equip each member of the community with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly changing world, while strengthening local pride and unity.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Since joining PEACE in 2019, Frank has made invaluable contributions to the Campus Task Force and Financial Committee. A long-time visitor and resident with his wife, Holly, he brings 30 years of experience in family foundations and volunteer work in Ecuador. With a background in management and engineering in the oil and gas industry, Frank’s leadership extends to roles such as president of Las Marietas’ Vigilance Committee and active member of the Punta Mita Operations Committee, all aimed at improving educational opportunities for residents.
Mandy, a Certified Public Accountant, is the former Chairperson and CEO of a major technology company in Canada, where she gained national recognition. With her husband and four children, Mandy has been deeply involved in international development for over 20 years, beginning with the construction of a school in Kenya. She later partnered with a microfinance charity to provide loans to underprivileged entrepreneurs, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to creating positive change.
Roberto joined the PEACE Board in 2014, contributing to various committees. He has served on the Board of the American School in Guadalajara and is a founding member of the YPO/WPO Guadalajara Chapter. In the Punta de Mita area, he co-founded Fundación Punta de Mita and was president of the Vigilance Committee at Hacienda de Mita, Punta Mita Resort. Roberto’s leadership has played a key role in advancing local community initiatives.
Juli has a strong background in communications, both professionally and as a volunteer. She and her husband, Scott, are long-time visitors and part-time residents of Punta Mita Resort. Together, they founded and operated a non-profit in Denver providing meals and shelter to the homeless. Juli’s career includes media relations, legislative compliance, and co-founding eCollage.com. She has also volunteered extensively in her children’s schools and local charities. Scott is similarly active in the Punta Mita community.
Gordon is a seasoned finance executive and nonprofit leader with decades of board and governance experience in Canada and abroad. Committed to excellence and community impact, he brings strong financial stewardship and strategic vision to PEACE.
Alfredo has a distinguished career in luxury real estate, serving as the General Director of DINE Punta Mita. He is also a board member of the American School of Puerto Vallarta, which enables him to be a valuable asset to PEACE Punta de Mita, particularly in collaborating with local and state governments. With his extensive experience, Alfredo significantly contributes to one of PEACE’s core areas of service: education.
Juan Pablo (JP) Stone has been a lifelong resident of the Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit area and is the owner of Stone Contractors, a leading architectural and construction company known for building some of the most prestigious homes in Punta Mita Resort. Known for his honesty, integrity, and commitment to excellence, JP has long been a champion for charitable work in the region. He currently supports PEACE Punta de Mita by contributing his expertise, alongside his wife, Celeste, and their family, who reside in Nuevo Vallarta.
Born and raised in Guadalajara, Diego’s passion for the ocean stems from his extensive history in competitive water sports. A natural entrepreneur, he identified the growing need for professional property management in Punta Mita’s thriving market and founded Concierge@theBay in 2007. Together with his wife, he actively supports the community, creating quality jobs and fostering regional development while raising their beautiful family.
A respected and beloved member of Punta Mita community, Carl is a hospitality executive with global experience in luxury destinations, including Punta Mita, Mayakoba, and top brands such as St. Regis and Four Seasons. he is known for building strong teams, creating world–class events, and elevating brands through strategic leadership.
Mandy ShapanskyPEACE Punta de Mita Founding Donor/Director and Finance Committee
Roberto Santa CruzTreasure and Finance Committee
Juli BullochSecretary and Communications Committee
Alfredo Bonnin Erales
Juan Pablo StoneSTAFF
José Antonio Salgado
Originally from Chiapas, José Antonio is an educator and former school principal with over 30 years of experience in teaching and leadership at top academic institutions in Mexico. Passionate about guiding young people, he brings a deep commitment to education and community development.
Omar Covarrubias
Born in Aguascalientes, Omar is an accountant with a finance specialization from UASLP. For a decade, he worked in the industrial sector (1994-2004), gaining valuable experience in high-demand roles before establishing his own business. Since then, his career has spanned real estate with REMAX, management at PSAV Four Seasons, and WILDMEX. Omar has served as PEACE’s administrator since 2018 and is a dedicated community member.
Paloma Bartz
Paloma coordinates the high school education program in the Prepanet alliance between TEC de Monterrey and PEACE Punta de Mita, supporting the academic and personal development of young people. She discovered her passion for teaching seven years ago in Costa Rica. With a degree in Educational Sciences and various certifications, Paloma focuses on creating transformative learning experiences that empower students to thrive in a globalized world.
Enrique Espino Soria
Enrique is a psychologist with a degree from UAEMex, specializing in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and certified in addiction counseling. With experience directing CENDI Naoli, teaching at the university level, collaborating with CONAFE, and working in rehabilitation centers, Enrique plays a crucial role in supporting the mental health of the youth at PEACE, empowering them to thrive in both their education and personal lives.
Alondra Flores
At 24 years old, Alondra, originally from Corral del Risco, is a shining example of the success of PEACE’s programs. As a former member of CAMPEONES, she earned a full scholarship to study Tourism Management and Development. Now, she gives back to the community by mentoring in the INEA program, helping others earn their primary and secondary education certificates. Alondra also teaches English to primary school children in Higuera Blanca through Campeones Jr., inspiring the next generation to dream big.
Elizabeth Villamil
With a degree in Philosophy from UNAM and a background in Cultural Management from the University of Querétaro, Eli has 15 years of experience in education. She has contributed to numerous cultural, educational, and artistic projects in Mexico. Passionate about the arts, she has studied at institutions such as MUSEO MARCO, FES UNAM, the Jalisco School of Arts, and Casa Taller Los Azulejos, where she focused on ceramics.
Oscar Galván
Originally from Zamora, Michoacán, Oscar moved to Guadalajara before joining PEACE in 2024. Trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming with an educational focus, he channels his passion for math and science to inspire students. Guided by the belief that human will is the most powerful force, Oscar encourages youth to pursue knowledge and personal growth.
Mercedes Rubio
Born in Mexico City and raised partly in Houston, Texas, Mercedes discovered her passion for teaching English after studying Marketing. With over 10 years of experience at various educational levels, she now teaches young learners in PEACE’s Campeones Jr. program. Mercedes is committed to empowering children with language skills that open doors to new opportunities.
Juan Carlos González
Originally from Tala, Jalisco, Juan Carlos holds a degree in Physical Culture and Sports from the University of Guadalajara. With a lifelong passion for movement and youth development, he uses play and sports to teach life skills. His work at PEACE inspires children and teens to find strength, purpose, and connection through physical activity and positive mentorship.
Lourdes Orozco
Lourdes or ‘Lulú’, originally from Tepic, Nayarit, has lived in Bahía de Banderas for over 15 years. A natural leader, proactive and energetic, she began as a volunteer at PEACE Punta de Mita before joining the team. Currently in charge of the CAMPEONES program kitchen, Lulú has also led the maintenance and cleaning department. Actively involved in the institution’s academic and cultural initiatives, she continues to play a vital role in shaping PEACE’s impact on the community.
Joel Pelayo
Joel, a key member of the cleaning and maintenance team at PEACE Punta de Mita, demonstrates his daily commitment to the institution. He completed his high school studies at PEACE as an adult, setting an inspiring example of perseverance. His daughter follows in his footsteps as part of the student community. Joel’s dedication significantly contributes to the overall development of students and fosters a positive learning environment.
Together, we make a difference
At PEACE Punta de Mita, we are united by a shared commitment to education and community growth. Our team works tirelessly to create opportunities and inspire change in Punta de Mita.
