Sometimes, a single afternoon can completely reshape the way an entire generation understands freedom.
In Ecuador, 203 young people gathered for an event that was far more than a conference. It was an awakening. Speak Up: Convince Me became a stage where every voice mattered, where each argument opened new doors, and where every idea sparked a flame.
The event unfolded in three powerful moments. First, a series of presentations that grounded the discussion on why freedom of expression remains the beating heart of debate on university campuses.
Then came a panel moderated by Professor Luis Espinosa Goded, featuring influential speakers María Gracia Jaramillo, Carlos Andrés Vera, and Otto Sonnenholzner. They faced difficult questions head-on, such as: What is freedom of expression, really? Should hate speech be debated or censored? Does political correctness protect us or restrict our ability to think?
Finally, the audience stepped into the spotlight during a bold “prove me wrong” session, challenging the panelists with direct questions about the limits, tensions, and contradictions of exercising freedom in Ecuador.
The event also included an exclusive meet-and-greet and a private lunch with the speakers. These intimate moments allowed young leaders to ask, debate, and absorb ideas without filters.
To expand the educational impact, delegations from the American School of Quito and the José Engling Catholic School attended, showing that the next generation is ready to engage in the conversation that will shape the future of freedom in the region.
Speak Up was more than an event. It was a powerful reminder that freedom is defended by speaking, debating, and confronting ideas without fear.
