In April 2024, Laterite launched its first office in Latin America, based in Lima, Peru. Since then, the team has grown. We caught up with two of the newest members, Research Analyst Paola Aranda and Research Intern Carlos Aldea, to learn more about their journeys into social research in Peru, what motivates them, and how their work is helping shape Laterite’s presence in the region.
Can you tell us a bit about yourselves and where you’re from?
Carlos: I’m from Chachapoyas, a city in northern Peru located between the Andes and the Amazon. It’s a small place with only about 40,000 people, but incredibly beautiful. We have waterfalls, citadels, and caves. Getting to Lima can take almost a full day by bus.
Paola: I’m from Pampas, in the Huancavelica region, which is also in the mountains. I moved to Lima for university and studied economics at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú. I graduated last July, and I’m currently finalizing my thesis on the impact of Peru’s Juntos social program on educational outcomes.
What sparked your interest in social research and Laterite specifically?
Carlos: I was always curious about the inequalities I saw growing up, especially in education, crime, and poverty. I initially thought I’d go into sociology, but I realized I enjoyed working with numbers and data, so I chose economics. At university, I joined several research institutes and knew right away that social research in Peru was what I wanted to pursue long-term. I came across Laterite when I was looking for internships. Once I started researching the company, I was inspired by the work being done in Africa. I thought, “Wow, this is something I’d love to be a part of.” I’ve now been here for about a year.
Paola: For me, it started with a research internship at Q Lab, an AI lab where I explored using machine learning techniques to predict corruption. That experience opened my eyes to how tech and data could be used for social good. I later applied those techniques to my thesis, using machine learning to predict access to social programs. I found it exciting to use data in a meaningful way. I saw Laterite as a good opportunity to do more of that kind of work.
What does your typical workday look like?
Carlos: My day usually begins with scanning for new business opportunities. Then I often shift into supporting ongoing projects. This includes cleaning and monitoring data or drafting sections of proposals and reports. One of my favorite parts of the job is data quality work. After spending time at our Kenya office, I’ve picked up new methods to ensuring high quality data that I’m now applying to our social research projects in Peru.
Paola: I usually start my day by logging into Slack and setting up a to-do list. I’m currently focused on business development: reviewing Terms of Reference, identifying opportunities, and helping write proposals. I like that this work gives me exposure to different actors in the Peru social research sector. I’m also teaching myself SurveyCTO and hope to get more involved in data analysis soon. SurveyCTO would be important to learn since most of our data collection projects use this tool.
You recently spent time in the Nairobi office, Carlos. What was that like?
Carlos: It was a great experience. I was there for two weeks to learn about Laterite’s systems and processes. Everyone was so kind and helpful. I worked closely with two analysts who really took the time to explain things to me. It made me feel very welcome and supported. I also got to explore a bit. I visited a national park, a museum, and even tried some Kenyan food (though I did miss Peruvian food!). The trip helped me think about how to apply what I learned in Kenya to our social research work in Peru.
Paola, it’s been a few months since you joined. How’ve you been settling into the team?
Paola: It’s been very positive. I felt well-supported from the beginning. The in-person team meeting we had recently helped us connect on a more personal level. Even though we work remotely, Slack makes it feel like we’re all working side by side. I also appreciate the feedback culture. Senior colleagues have helped me build on my strengths while also identifying areas to improve on, which is key to growing our social research work in Peru.
What are your future goals—for yourself and for Laterite in Peru?
Carlos: I joined when there were only three of us. Now, with more teammates, things feel more dynamic. It’s exciting to be helping shape Laterite’s growth in Latin America. It’s a learning process for all of us. I’ll be moving to Lima after I finish my degree to be closer to the team. The next step for me is to be a Research Analyst.
Paola: My plan is to continue learning at Laterite for the next few years and then pursue a Master’s abroad. I want to focus on education or health research and improve my quantitative skills. I’d also love to visit another Laterite office and eventually lead a project. I really value the professional development tools we use here, like Lattice. It shows that Laterite is serious about helping its people grow and making an impact in social research in Peru.
Final thoughts?
Carlos: Laterite is a great place to work, especially if you’re passionate about using data for impact. I’ve learned so much already and feel motivated by the people around me.
Paola: Being at Laterite has helped me grow both technically and professionally. I’m excited about where we’re headed as a team, and the role we can play in shaping development research in Latin America.
Laterite employees are selected through an open, competitive and rigorous process that is standard across our offices. If you are interested in joining our team, check our careers page.