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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.

Frank HuttoFrank HuttoPEACE Punta de Mita Chairman of the Board of DirectorsMandy ShapanskyMandy ShapanskyPEACE Punta de Mita Founding Donor/Director and Finance CommitteeRoberto Santa CruzRoberto Santa CruzTreasure and Finance CommitteeJuli BullochJuli BullochSecretary and Communications CommitteeGordon RitchieGordon RitchieAlfredo Bonnin EralesAlfredo Bonnin EralesJuan Pablo StoneJuan Pablo StoneDiego Martínez NegreteDiego Martínez NegreteCarl EmbersonCarl Emberson

STAFF

José Antonio Salgado

Executive Director

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

Administrator

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

Prepanet Coordinator

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

Psychologist

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

INEA Program Facilitator

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

Coaching Teacher

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

Physical Education Teacher

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

English Teacher

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

Computer Teacher

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

CAMPEONES Program Kitchen

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

Cleaning and Maintenance

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.

Leadership
80%
Teamwork
90%
Communication
85%

Join us in making Punta de Mita thrive!

Address

Av. Soto y Gama #3,
Emiliano Zapata,
Punta de Mita, Nayarit, México.

Newsletter

CLICK ON! is a dynamic computer skills program designed for adults, equipping participants with essential digital knowledge to thrive in today’s world. Covering basic computer operations, Windows and Chrome OS, and practical tools like Google Workspace and office software, the program also includes lessons on web design without coding, online security, and using apps like WhatsApp. With flexible, hands-on classes, CLICK ON! empowers adults to enhance their personal and professional lives by building foundational tech skills and increasing digital literacy.

KEEP GOING is a transformative language program for adults (16 and older), emphasizing the role of English in unlocking new opportunities. Participants attend two 2-hour sessions per week, totaling four hours of instruction. Using the Cambridge teaching system, the program enhances communication skills, builds confidence, and empowers personal growth. More than just language learning, KEEP GOING fosters life skills and opens doors to new opportunities in both personal and professional areas.

SUPERA - INEA is a flexible educational initiative for individuals over 15, providing an opportunity to complete primary and secondary education. In collaboration with INEA, participants receive official SEP certificates. The program allows learners to progress at their own pace, offering four hours of classes weekly, with adaptable schedules to fit personal and professional commitments. By encouraging lifelong learning and development, SUPERA - INEA opens doors to personal growth and new opportunities for everyone.

CAMPEONES JR. is the next step in PEACE’s educational initiatives, designed for fifth- and sixth-grade students. Building on the success of CAMPEONES, this after-school program lays the foundation for English proficiency and academic growth. Through engaging, immersive classes, students gain practical language skills and cultural awareness. Our curriculum, aligned with Cambridge standards, fosters young learners' confidence and prepares them for future challenges. Classes are held twice a week, supported by healthy snacks, creating a vibrant, supportive environment for over 70 students across Punta de Mita and Higuera Blanca.

The CAMPEONES program is PEACE Punta de Mita’s flagship initiative and the most successful over the years. This transformative, high-performance program is designed for secondary school students, offering an enriching after-school experience that fosters personal and academic growth. With a focus on English, Computer Science, and Coaching, the program equips students with essential skills for their future, including bilingual proficiency, digital literacy, and leadership. Through educational, cultural, environmental, and community engagement activities, CAMPEONES inspires students to reach their full potential, become leaders, and positively impact their community.

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