Itzel Ruiz

Learning and Development Specialist based in Helsinki. I have a passion for exploring and implementing learning solutions that meet the needs of our target audience while aligning with organizational objectives

Professional experience

Professional experience

Through my years in the Intercultural Management field, I have worked with design, development, strategic planning, co-facilitation, evaluation, and ongoing adjustment of training programs

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With a curious and open mind, I have collaborated remotely and on-site with consultants in Intercultural Management around the globe

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From 2016 to 2022 I lead the annual 2 day seminar. They took place face-to-face, online and hybrid format. Some of the tasks included designing the programme, supervising logistics, and contacting speakers.


The topic for each year were different, however the focus was the same: transform learning into a competitive advantage.

Time and location in global organisations can be the largest barriers to upskilling busy professionals. Learning in a digital environment is immediate and content demands are high.


What do learners want? When I answer that question, I do not use generalisations. I use data to understand better people and their learning needs. I have developed blended learning initiatives combining online tools and virtual led sessions to increase engagement and convey meaningful insights.

My career

At first, I thought that becoming a language teacher was just about transferring linguistic skills, but I came to realise it’s also wanting to help people. During my teacher years, I developed and enhanced skills in communication, listening, collaboration, adaptability, patience, and empathy. If I wanted to have great groups, I had to focus also on the individuals.


These skills were of great support while working as a public servant in the government of Mexico City. Where I met, discussed, and supported different levels of people (business owners, directors, managers, colleagues, government officials, educational challenge individuals, peers).


Second Language Teacher

(Spanish and English)

  • Developing support material to convey key concepts
  • Teaching children and adults

Compliance Officer

  • Ensuring that local businesses do not contravene local law
  • Serving citizens with summonses

Education

Bachelor of Modern Language and Literature

Mexico

English literature

Didactics

Translation

Thesis title:

“The Representation of Criseyde: Reviewing the Female Character in the Medieval Romance ‘Troilus and Criseyde’”

Master’s Degree in Intercultural Studies in Communication and Administration


Identity and cultural difference theories

Discourse analysis

Thesis title:

"Learning Styles as a Tool to Effectively Support Learning in Multinational Organisations"

Finland

Main themes of management sciences

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Why give our time for free?

I do it because every time I volunteer, I take a wealth of learning and experiences that have affected and effected in the way I perceive our surroundings.

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Volunteer projects

English Teacher in California, USA, Palestine, and Sri Lanka

Spanish Teacher in Texas, USA


Creative Mornings

is a gathering for curious minds, an inspiring space for open dialogue. It is a global platform where we can explore the different faces of creativity.



FloweRescue

addresses waste (and other sustainability issues) in the floral industry and connects people through the beauty and joy of flowers.


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References

Itzel delivers top quality learning programmes, both online and onsite, with a contagious enthusiasm. Intuitively, she knows what participants need and can assess the style of the trainer and tailor the programme and its methods to it. She has extensive knowledge of the impact of culture and knows how to apply this knowledge in daily life.

Loes Husain-Cornelissen

Rights Manager

Geert Hofstede B.V.

What truly sets Itzel apart is their innate ability to effortlessly communicate and engage with a diverse range of individuals. Whether it's clients from different cultural backgrounds, colleagues with varying perspectives, or customers with unique needs, Itzel consistently demonstrates an uncanny ability to establish rapport and build lasting relationships. It is rare to find someone who can adapt so seamlessly to various situations and personalities.

Johanna Vanttaja

CreativeMornings

Helsinki host

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Leading our volunteer groups requires patience for training (to show people who are new to flowers how to identify, sort and care for them), confidence with logistical coordination and task delegation, and great interpersonal skills to make sure that everyone has a good time. Itzel balances all of these responsibilities with aplomb, creating a productive space where everyone feels welcome. And she is an eager learner which makes her a great teacher.

Kati Mayfield

FloweRescue

Founder

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