At GEN Paraguay, we proudly celebrate the achievement of entrepreneur Carmen Paredes Ramírez, selected among hundreds of candidates to participate in Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, as part of the prestigious Exponeur Academy. This recognition not only honors her innovative vision and commitment to sustainability, but also reflects the talent, strength, and determination that define Paraguay’s young leaders.
From over 300 global applicants, Carmen was chosen for the cohort of 70 young founders under 35, representing 45 countries. After weeks of top-level training, she was selected as one of three global winners, alongside Willie Ng from Malaysia and Ludwig Wässman from Sweden. Notably, Carmen is the only woman among this extraordinary and select global group.
The three winners will present their projects on July 31 and August 1 before global leaders at the World Expo in Osaka:
- Willie Ng (Malaysia): turning organic waste into fertilizer and animal feed to reduce farming costs
- Ludwig Wässman (Sweden): streamlining green building certifications via a PropTech SaaS platform
- Carmen Paredes Ramírez (Paraguay): through her venture Ruruka, transforms industrial sludge into sustainable building materials
Carmen is part of the Exponeur Academy, a global fellowship for young founders driving impact in emerging markets. The program provides:
- A fully funded trip to Expo 2025 in Japan
- International fellowship to accelerate high-potential startups
- World-class mentorship in entrepreneurial mindset, finance, leadership, and sales
At GEN Paraguay, we feel great satisfaction in being part of this journey. Our mission is clear: to empower tomorrow’s leaders with today’s skills, supporting their growth and global connection. Carmen is a living example of what happens when entrepreneurship is built on purpose, sustainability, and collaboration.
This achievement reaffirms that Paraguay has much to offer the world, and that when visionary young people are given opportunities, their impact transcends borders.
Congratulations, Carmen! We know your participation will inspire other entrepreneurs and open new doors for future Paraguayan innovators. Your voice transforms, your initiative builds, and your presence represents an entire nation.