Latin America and the Carribean memorial page
In the LAC region, we have lost great facilitators and members in recent years, people who have contributed greatly to the profession and to the development of IAF in their countries and across Latin America and the Carribean.
We have developed this page to honour them and their contributions, we remember them all with great respect and humility.
Gilbert Brenson-Lazan
In memory of Gilbert Brenson-Lazán
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Gilbert Brenson-Lazán, who took his final bow on 10 October 2025.
We remember with deep gratitude Gilbert Brenson-Lazán, the first IAF Hall of Famer from Latin America and former Vice-Chair of the International Association of Facilitators (IAF). A true pioneer of facilitation in the region, Gilbert’s leadership, compassion, and vision inspired facilitators around the world.
He co-authored “A Light in This Dark Valley”, (add link here https://globalfacilitators.org/download/a-light-in-the-dark-valley-gilbert-brenson-lazan-and-mercedes-sarmiento/) a guide offering hope and practical steps for healing and recovery, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping people rebuild and reconnect after a crisis.
He was also a founding member of GFSC – Global Facilitators Serving Communities, an organization that trains, supports, mentors and collaborates with communities and individuals to enhance local resources and skills that build community resilience and self-reliance.
He is specially remembered in Latin America as a he was trailblazer and a stern trainer for so many facilitators in the Spanish language and a great contributor to the foundation of the Latin American Association of Facilitators (ALFA).
Gilbert’s legacy lives on through the countless facilitators and communities he mentored and uplifted. His light continues to guide us toward empathy, resilience, and shared humanity.