Despite Costa Rica’s long history as a destination for Nicaraguans seeking refuge and opportunity, true inclusion remains limited. An estimated half a million Nicaraguans live in the country, many of whom face barriers to social, economic, and cultural integration.

In this virtual conversation, Maris Stella Fernández, co-founder of Fundación SIFAIS, tells us how her organization began efforts to combat the social exclusion of La Carpio – an informal settlement on the outskirts of San José, home to many migrants in vulnerable conditions – by promoting the sporting and artistic talents of residents. Since its founding, SIFAIS has promoted the inclusion of migrants by connecting them with volunteer educators, encouraging learning and mutual exchange. Despite constant challenges, SIFAIS presents a replicable model rooted in four cardinal attitudes: trust, consistency, madness, and tenderness.

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This conversation was  moderated by Lina Translavina-Stover, executive director of our member organization Heartland Workers Center.

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Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025 

Time: 10 a.m. PT | 11 a.m. Central America | 12 p.m. CT | 1 p.m. ET 

Modality: Virtual by Zoom

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