Andres Briceno at Rutgers University - Newark

Born in Maracay, Venezuela, Andrés Briceño grew up witnessing the collapse of a once-democratic nation under authoritarian rule. Experiencing repression, censorship, and economic crisis firsthand shaped his deep commitment to freedom, limited government, and civil society.

At Universidad de Carabobo, Andrés founded Desarrollo Universitario to promote leadership and open debate amid declining academic freedom. He later worked with Students for Liberty, Vente Venezuela, and CEDICE Libertad, organizing educational programs and training young leaders to defend democratic principles. He continued his preparation as a communicator by studying Mass Communications at Universidad Católica Andrés Bello, strengthening his ability to turn ideas into action.

Alongside his advocacy work, Andrés served his community through Rotary, coordinating humanitarian efforts during Venezuela’s severe crisis and founding a Rotaract Club to mobilize young leaders.

In 2021, threats from Maduro’s regime forced him to flee to The Woodlands, Texas, where he continued his commitment to service. He founded and now leads the Rotaract Club of The Woodlands and serves as District 5910 Rotaract Representative, mentoring clubs across Texas.

Recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow and invited to speak to students and young adults, Andrés shares a message grounded in lived experience: freedom requires courage, responsibility, and leadership. His mission is to inspire young people to think freely, lead boldly, and shape the future of their communities.

"Ideas are Dangerous: A Venezuelan Student's Fight Against Dictatorship"