Recognition and Testimonials

At Kitso Learning Solutions, meaningful learning and leadership are built through collaboration, trust, and shared purpose. We are deeply grateful for the recognition this work has received and for the reflections from partners and collaborators who have walked alongside us in creating spaces for growth, dialogue, and impact.

Honors & Community Recognition

National Peace Corps Association – 40 Under 40 Honoree

Janina Acevedo-Yates, founder of Kitso Learning Solutions, was recognized by the National Peace Corps Association as part of its 40 Under 40 cohort for 2025. This distinction honors leaders whose work reflects a continued commitment to service, global engagement, and community impact beyond their Peace Corps experience.

View the Spotlight

International Career Advancement Program (ICAP) Fellowship

Janina was selected as an ICAP Fellow, a program dedicated to strengthening leadership and collaboration across international development and public service communities. Through this fellowship, participants engage in dialogue and learning that supports more inclusive and responsive development practice.

Learn more about ICAP

Honored at the Colorado State Capitol – Peace Corps Week

During Peace Corps Week, Janina was honored at the Colorado State Capitol in recognition of her continued commitment to international development, leadership, and community-building. The recognition highlighted the lasting impact of Peace Corps values in shaping leadership and service.

American University Alumni Spotlight

Janina was featured in an American University Alumni Spotlight, highlighting her journey in international development, peacebuilding, and learning design, as well as the creation of Kitso Learning Solutions.

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Panelist – IGNITE Discussion on Women’s Leadership

Janina Acevedo-Yates was invited to serve as a panelist for an IGNITE discussion bringing together women leaders committed to advancing community-centered leadership and civic engagement. The conversation explored the role of women’s leadership in shaping more inclusive communities and fostering collective action during times of change.

What Partners are Saying

Much of Kitso Learning Solutions’ work is led by founder Janina Acevedo-Yates. The reflections below come from collaborators, colleagues, and partners who have experienced her facilitation, instructional design, and leadership development work firsthand.

  • Creating Spaces for Meaningful Dialogue

    “One of Janina’s standout qualities is her ability to facilitate conversations among people with different perspectives. She creates spaces where everyone feels comfortable sharing their views while guiding discussions toward thoughtful and productive outcomes.”

    - Jessica Glickman
    International Communications Specialist, Millennium Challenge Corporation

  • Practical and Impactful Training Design

    “I really appreciated the Training of Trainers course Janina designed. Even with prior experience facilitating trainings, I learned a tremendous amount. The structure was thoughtful, well organized, and full of practical insights I will absolutely apply moving forward.”

    - Michelle P.
    Former Senior Policy Advisor, USAID Center for Digital Development

  • Guiding Teams Through Complex Conversations

    “Janina has an exceptional ability to guide groups through complex discussions with clarity and care. Her facilitation style encourages participation from everyone in the room while helping teams move toward meaningful outcomes.”

    - Rich SwamiNathan
    Director of Hiring, Training, and Development, Westcoast Connection

  • A Thoughtful and Collaborative Learning Partner

    “Working with Janina was an incredibly positive experience. She brings both strategic insight and a deeply human approach to her work, helping teams learn together while strengthening collaboration and shared purpose.”

    - Bastian Gras
    Senior HR Associate for Learning Initiatives, International Organization for Migration