Heroes of Orbis: Esteban Suarez

Esteban’s days are never the same. He works closely with project managers on the Flying Eye Hospital project development while also handling administrative tasks tied to logistics and finance. He has helped coordinate global initiatives like the Project Management Manual and Orbis’s Brown Bag series, which keep employees around the world up to date on exciting Orbis programs. While visiting sight-saving projects, he also helps Orbis reach more supporters and donors by collecting patient pictures and case stories that capture the transformative impact of our work in the region.

His expertise has been recognized on a wider stage, too. In 2025, Esteban presented at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO) conferences, showcasing his posters on Enhancing Eye Health Access in Northern Peru: A Comprehensive Approach to Community Care. These opportunities highlight his growing leadership position in the eye health space and his drive to share our innovative approaches with global audiences.

Esteban’s role allows him to lean into his diverse education background. With a major in Political Science and a master's degree in economics, he has lectured on leadership and political participation to young audiences, as well as appeared on national television in Peru to discuss public policy, corruption, elections, and gender gaps. Esteban has also researched sustainable cities and mobility, with frequent contributions to public debates through media appearances. This breadth of experience brings a people-centered perspective to Esteban’s work, helping him approach our mission with patients at the front-and-center.

Outside of work, Esteban is a devoted surfer, spending nearly every day chasing the waves with his father—who, at 77, still surfs alongside him. Esteban says his dad is a big inspiration, reminding him that dedication and joy know no age. In addition to surfing, Esteban is also a professional backgammon player, currently competing in Peru’s first division. He dreams to one day become the country’s first Grandmaster in the sport.

Photo gallery: images from a recent Flying Eye Hospital planning trip in Peru.

Reflecting on his work with Orbis, Esteban shares that what motivates him most is the chance to be part of a mission that changes lives every day: “I see firsthand how our projects improve access to eye care and transform communities. Collecting stories from patients and partners reminds me that what we do is not just about numbers or systems—it’s about people.”

We are deeply grateful to Esteban for his dedication, expertise, and passion. Whether he’s supporting Orbis programs in Latin America, representing us on the global stage, or just catching waves, Esteban is truly a Hero of Orbis.