Behind every social program, every opportunity created, and every life touched, there are people who deeply believe in the power of serving others. That commitment was recognized internationally when María José Paiz, General Manager of Fundación Bi, received the Excellence in Philanthropy – Best in Strategic Philanthropy award during the 2026 Excellence Awards, held at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

This award recognizes leaders who, through their work, bring about positive change and contribute to the development of their countries. From among more than 300 nominations from around the world, María José Paiz was selected alongside other leaders who are transforming their sectors through actions that have a real and sustainable impact.

Beyond individual recognition, this achievement also highlights the work that thousands of people do every day to create opportunities in Guatemala.

Purpose-Driven Leadership That Transforms Lives

Often, when we hear the word “leadership,” we think of people who lead teams or make important decisions. However, true leadership is also reflected in the ability to serve, listen, and create opportunities for others.

That has been one of the guiding principles behind Fundación Bi's work in recent years.

Through programs focused on:

  • Education
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Financial literacy
  • Sports
  • Health
  • Volunteering

The organization has sought to provide tools and knowledge that enable people to enhance their holistic development.

When a community gains access to new opportunities, the benefits extend far beyond any single person. They impact entire families, strengthen communities, and create the conditions for a more sustainable future.

The recognition received in Dubai highlights the importance of promoting initiatives that bring about lasting and measurable changes in people's lives.

More than half a million stories behind the impact

During María José Paiz’s first two years as head of Fundación Bi, the organization has reached more than half a million Guatemalans across the country’s 22 departments.

Behind that number lie thousands of stories that rarely make the headlines.

When an opportunity comes to the person who needs it most

This could be the case of a young person receiving training to develop new skills. Or a family gaining access to tools that allow them to improve their quality of life.

It can also be a community that finds new opportunities for growth through educational, sports, or entrepreneurship programs.

The most significant changes often begin with seemingly small actions:

  • A workshop that sparks a new calling
  • A program that builds a person's confidence
  • An opportunity to develop one's talent
  • Support that helps you build a life plan

When these actions multiply, the impact affects entire communities.

That is why, behind every social program, there is a network of people committed to creating opportunities where they are needed most.

Inspiring others is also a way to change the world

The sixth edition of the Excellence Awards brought together leaders from sectors such as education, technology, healthcare, sustainability, innovation, and finance.

These platforms help raise awareness of initiatives that are bringing about positive change in different parts of the world, but they also serve another important purpose: to inspire new generations.

During the ceremony, María José Paiz shared a reflection that captures the spirit of this award:

“The most important lesson I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t about being in charge, but about serving others.”

This vision takes on special significance at a time when communities need more opportunities, more collaboration, and more people willing to build a better future for everyone.

International recognition not only celebrates a professional career; it also highlights the work of partners, volunteers, collaborators, and communities that are part of every project supported by Fundación Bi.

Because when a person decides to devote their time, talent, or effort to the well-being of others, they become part of a much greater transformation.

Every act of solidarity, every learning opportunity, and every opportunity created has the potential to change a life.

And when thousands of people work together toward that goal, the changes can transcend borders and become a source of inspiration for the entire world.