Scholarships, Dialogue, and Sports: Bridges That Unite Mexico and the U.S.

Building Bridges 2025 - Stronger Together Across Borders

I had the privilege of hosting a delegation of Latino leaders in Mexico City during the 23rd annual México Siglo XXI conference, where more than 10,000 scholarship recipients gathered under the vision of the Carlos Slim and TELMEX telcel Foundations. Over the past 23 years, this event has brought together 230,000 students, each one inspired by world leaders, entrepreneurs, Nobel laureates, athletes, and cultural icons. This year was especially meaningful because it also marked the 10th anniversary of our Latino Leadership cohort, Building Bridges — a program committed to connecting communities across borders.

A Family Commitment with Global Impact

The Slim family’s dedication to this mission is extraordinary. Social programs supported by the Carlos Slim Foundation have benefited more than 57 million people of all ages, improving quality of life, strengthening skills, and opening doors to opportunity. Beyond education, their efforts span healthcare, job development, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion. And it’s not just about the work of an institution — it’s a family commitment. Each member of the Slim family is actively involved, ensuring this vision continues to grow.

Inspiration on Stage

The conference once again brought the world to Mexico City. Queen Rania of Jordan shared a message of empathy and shared values. Joy Buolamwini challenged us to ensure innovation in artificial intelligence remains ethical and human-centered. Marian Rojas Estapé spoke about mental health and resilience, while humorist Franco Escamilla reminded us that laughter connects us, too. Kevin Costner offered reflections on storytelling, responsibility, and the environment. And in a moment that lit up the auditorium, Serena Williams joined Arturo Elías on stage for an impromptu tennis rally — in heels.

We also heard the powerful words of Dr. Rigoberta Menchú Tum, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who dedicated her life to dignity, human rights, and reconciliation. Her message stayed with me as our own delegation gathered with the U.S. Ambassador Ron Johnson over dinner. We may not always see eye to eye, but the simple act of sharing a meal can open perspectives, build trust, and spark collaboration.

Bridges in Action

The day closed with moments of symbolism and unity — thousands of students raising their phone flashlights to “illuminate the future,” athletes like Osmar Olvera and the Mexican Women’s Flag Football Team showing the power of discipline and teamwork, and Ha*Ash turning the auditorium into a celebration of hope and culture.

For me, this is what Building Bridges looks like: education, healthcare, job development, entrepreneurship, culture, and yes, sports — all working together to strengthen North America. Sports in particular remind us that teamwork and perseverance transcend borders, which is why I believe initiatives like the North America Business and Sports Forum can play such a powerful role in connecting leaders and communities.

The Path Ahead

• Expand access to education and job training programs like Acceso Latino and Capacítate para el Empleo.

• Foster dialogue through more cross-border exchanges and leadership dinners.

• Elevate sports and culture as unifying forces that break down barriers.

• Champion inclusive growth so Latino communities across the U.S. and Mexico can share fully in the opportunities ahead.

Gatherings like México Siglo XXI remind us that progress is not the work of a single government or institution — it’s a shared responsibility. The Slim family’s leadership shows what’s possible when vision and commitment come together.

If one family’s dedication can transform the lives of 57 million people, what could our nations achieve if we embraced the same spirit of building bridges?

👉 I’ll be expanding on these themes in this week’s edition of Power Courier, my Monday morning newsletter. If you haven’t yet subscribed, you can do so here to join thousands of readers exploring the issues shaping U.S.-Mexico relations, trade, and leadership.