Empowering the next generation of civic leaders in Puerto Rico.
FWD Civic Academy prepares Puerto Ricans to lead with purpose, innovation, and impact in their communities.
The Forward Civic Academy trains the next generation of citizen leaders and future public officials to strengthen democracy through ethical, effective, and evidence-based leadership.
Designed to lower barriers to political entry and bring fresh talent into public service, the platform cultivates civility, respectful debate, and common ground as tools for solving problems.
Our Mission
To educate the next generation of civic leaders who strengthen and modernize governance through ethical, effective, and evidence-based leadership — forging consensus, promoting common ground, and renewing confidence in public service.
Our Vision
A democracy strengthened by principled leadership — where public service is guided by integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to the common good.
Theory of Change
If we cultivate and mentor future leaders in government → then they will lead more effectively and ethically → therefore institutions will become more trusted, responsive, and democratic, paving the way for Puerto Rico's true economic and social development.
Puerto Rico's future unfolds now.
FWD Civic Academy ignites it.
Through innovative curriculum and real-world experience, we prepare students to become the civic leaders, policymakers, and changemakers that Puerto Rico needs. Technology and civic engagement are the foundation of our approach.
Guided by experience, driven by purpose
Learn from university professors, former government officials, policy experts, seasoned political consultants, journalists, civic leaders, and technologists from all political perspectives.
Former Secretary of State & Executive Director, PPP Authority
A Former Secretary of State of Puerto Rico and former Executive Director of the Public-Private Partnerships Authority, with extensive experience leading government operations and complex public initiatives.
Former Secretary of the Treasury
A Former Secretary of the Treasury of Puerto Rico, with deep experience in fiscal policy, public finance, and senior government leadership.
Founder & Entrepreneur
A founder and entrepreneur who has worked closely with government leaders and public institutions on digital strategy, communications, and civic engagement in Puerto Rico. He leads a civic podcast exploring public policy and leadership in Puerto Rico, highlighting the people and ideas shaping the island.
Public Servant & Policy Expert
A public servant with multiple-administration experience in government administration and public policy, bringing a strong focus on operational leadership, institutional effectiveness, and public impact.
Senior Executive & Civic Leader
A senior executive and civic leader who has served in key government advisory roles, bringing decades of experience in institutional leadership, economic development, and public-private collaboration in Puerto Rico.
Former Secretary of Economic Development & Commerce
A Former Secretary of Economic Development and Commerce of Puerto Rico, as well as a long-time business leader and philanthropist with decades of experience in entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement.
Former President, Government Development Bank & Secretary of the Treasury
A Former President of the Government Development Bank of Puerto Rico and former Secretary of the Treasury, with deep experience in fiscal policy, public finance, and economic governance.
Former Representative, PR House of Representatives
A Former Representative in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives, recognized as part of a new generation of public leadership focused on public policy, transparency, and civic participation.
Former Secretary of State
A Former Secretary of State of Puerto Rico, with extensive experience in public administration, diplomatic affairs, and government leadership.
Our Curriculum
A comprehensive program designed to equip the next generation of Puerto Rican leaders with the knowledge, skills, and values to drive meaningful civic change.
Format
Executive Program
Schedule
1-2 Sessions/Week
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location
In Person
Santurce, Puerto Rico
The Journey of Puerto Rico: History, Government, and Identity
Explores how PR's political and civic journey—from colony to U.S. territory—shaped its modern governance and identity. Introduces the civic challenges and opportunities leaders inherit today.
Understanding Our Government: Institutions, Power, and Process
A deep dive into how PR's government works—branches, municipalities, and its relationship with U.S. Congress. Simulates how a bill becomes law and how citizens can influence policy.
Money, Power, and Policy: Public Finance in Puerto Rico
Examines fiscal responsibility, the PROMESA law, the fiscal oversight board, and budgeting. Students learn to read public budgets and debate fiscal priorities.
Leadership with Integrity: Ethics and Values in Public Service
Focuses on ethical decision-making using PR case studies and figures known for moral courage. Students define their own values-based leadership compass. Includes an interactive crisis scenario based on Puerto Rico's political context to strengthen participants' moral judgment and integrity in decision-making.
Mobilizing Communities: Civic Engagement and Coalition Building
Teaches organizing, advocacy, and collective action through examples from PR's social movements. Students design their own mini advocacy campaigns.
Designing Policy That Works: Evidence, Data, and Impact
Introduces policy analysis and evaluation tools. Participants use real PR data to propose solutions for issues like education, health, or infrastructure.
Administering Public Resources and Leading Effective Teams
Covers the essentials of public administration—managing budgets, teams, and community resources in Puerto Rico with transparency, accountability, and data-driven leadership. Modules on strategic planning, performance measurement, and interagency coordination to prepare participants to execute public initiatives effectively.
Telling Our Story: Communications, Media, and Public Trust
Examines the role of media and narrative in shaping civic confidence. Students learn to craft clear, credible messages and handle public communication ethically.
Innovation for Puerto Rico: Labs in Public Problem Solving
Hands-on labs addressing PR's current and emerging issues—climate resilience, migration, digital transformation, energy reform. Students co-create solutions using design thinking.
Campaigns, Civic Futures, and the Next Generation of Leadership
Merges campaign strategy with foresight: how emerging leaders can responsibly run for office or lead civic initiatives addressing future challenges for PR.
Ready to start your journey? Contact Us
Target Audience
We welcome future leaders from diverse backgrounds who share a commitment to strengthening democracy through principled public service.
Emerging Civic Leaders
Individuals ready to step into positions of influence and drive meaningful change in their communities.
Public Servants
Current government employees seeking to deepen their impact and expand their leadership capabilities.
Public Office Candidates
Aspiring candidates preparing to run for office with integrity, competence, and a commitment to service.
Professionals in Public Service
Career professionals from various sectors with a genuine interest in contributing to the public good.
Eligibility
We primarily seek candidates who demonstrate these qualities.
Our selection process values diversity of thought and background. We welcome applicants from all political perspectives who share a commitment to constructive dialogue and democratic principles.
Join Our Academy 🚀
Shape the future with FWD Civic Academy. Fuel your passion, hone your skills, and drive meaningful change with purpose. Build the future of civic leadership in Puerto Rico. It's more than education — it's an impact.
Hands-On Experience
Gain hands-on experience with real community projects and civic initiatives.
Distinguished Faculty
Learn from distinguished faculty who have shaped policy and driven change in Puerto Rico.
Purpose-Driven Community
Be part of a purpose-driven community committed to Puerto Rico's future.
Contact Us
Have questions? We'd love to hear from you. Send us a message and we'll respond as soon as possible.