Rafael Gamboa

As part of the communications team, Rafa brings more than 15 years of experience in communication and design to IBI. They support IBI’s global communications and help amplify its mission to advance biochar for climate action.

Before joining IBI, Rafa shaped the regional public presence of the Instituto Latinoamericano del Biochar as its Marketing Communications Consultant. They also served as Design Lead at The Next 150, and for nearly a decade as a communications consultant for the Population Council. As an independent consultant, Rafa helps organizations align their brand messaging with environmental leadership through data visualization, brand-aligned communications  and visual projects.

Rafa first learned about biochar in 2023 at The Next 150, where they company worked through its brand General Biochar Systems to set up the first industrial-scale biochar project in Guanajuato, Mexico, using corn residue. Rafa describes themself as a speculative designer and biochar enthusiast. They hold  a master’s degree in  Design and Visual Communications from UNAM (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México). Rafa approaches communications with a focus on clarity, cultural respect and the stories that connect people and communities to their environment.