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Rafa de la Guia
Fintech VC | Executive Coach
Professional Background
Rafa de la Guia is an esteemed Partner at Quona Capital, an influential early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to propelling emerging markets forward. Based in the vibrant capital of Mexico City, Rafa specializes in investing in innovative Latin American startups that exhibit transformative potential. With an impressive 20 years of extensive experience across various sectors including venture capital, private credit, and investment banking, Rafa has established himself as a key player in the investment landscape of Latin America.
Before taking on his pivotal role at Quona Capital, Rafa was instrumental during his six-year tenure at Omidyar Network, a renowned impact investment firm. Here, he supported key initiatives in education, financial inclusion, and cutting-edge technology ventures both in Latin America and the United States. His investment acumen was further honed through prior engagements at Acumen Fund and Adobe Ventures, where he contributed to the growth of early-stage impact funds. Additionally, Rafa made his mark at MV Credit, a leading European subordinated debt manager. He kickstarted his career at the prestigious UBS Investment Bank in London, gaining valuable insights into global financial markets.
Education and Achievements
Rafa's strong academic foundation is a testament to his dedication and expertise in his field. He holds an MBA from the prestigious Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, where he focused on venture capital and social entrepreneurship—critical areas that align with his professional pursuits. Additionally, he completed a Coach Certification Program in Executive Coaching at the Hudson Institute of Coaching, underscoring his commitment to personal development and leadership.
He also earned dual honors degrees in Business Administration and Law from ICADE (Universidad Pontificia Comillas) in Madrid, Spain. This impressive educational background has not only equipped him with essential analytical and strategic skills but also a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape surrounding investment opportunities.
Community Engagement
In addition to his professional responsibilities, Rafa is passionately involved in various education nonprofits. He devotes significant time and resources to initiatives such as Laboratoria and Clap, which aim to empower underprivileged communities through education and skills training. His commitment to giving back to the community reflects his belief in the transformative power of education and his desire to foster positive change amongst young individuals in the region.
Continuing Influence
Rafa's impressive career trajectory, marked by significant roles at innovative firms, showcases his profound expertise in building investment strategies that not only aim for financial returns but also emphasize social impact. His diverse experience ranges from consulting with startups to leading investment strategies for major funds, making him a versatile leader in the venture capital ecosystem.
Through his role at Quona Capital and beyond, Rafa continues to be a significant advocate for fostering entrepreneurial ventures in Latin America, driving both economic growth and social change. His blend of expertise, community service, and commitment to education makes him a role model in the investment and entrepreneurial space.
Achievements
- Partner at Quona Capital
- Six years of transformative work at Omidyar Network
- Significant contributions to Acumen Fund and Adobe Ventures
- Diverse experience in investment banking at UBS
- Certification in Executive Coaching from Hudson Institute of Coaching
Community Engagement Contributions
- Board Member at Laboratoria
- Active supporter of educational nonprofits such as Clap.
Highlights


