In this New Year special of the IDEMS podcast, David and Santiago reflect on their journey with IDEMS, starting from Santiago’s official employment in early 2020. They discuss their initial projects and the disruptions caused by COVID-19, which led to shifts in their work approach. They share insights on the growth of the IDEMS team, the challenges faced, and Santiago’s personal experiences transitioning between roles within the organisation and as a school teacher. The conversation highlights adaptability, and the ongoing mission to foster positive social impact through local innovation.