Leadership
The minds behind 2NE
Meet the journalists, strategists, creators, and policy experts leading 2NE.
Our leadership includes media veterans, tech disruptors, and Washington insiders.
Our Team
The 2NE leadership team brings together a unique blend of expertise in media, geopolitics, human rights, finance, and data strategy. Led by CEO Varela Villasmil, the team includes seasoned lobbyist and geopolitical expert Arnoldo Balderas Castillo, human rights advocate Jenna M. Cisse, statistical engineer and opinion specialist Trevon J. Mitchell, and investment strategist Bill D. Davis. Together, they embody 2NE’s mission: to invest with purpose, influence with integrity, and drive impact across sectors. Their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to ethical leadership position 2NE as a bold and forward-thinking force in today’s global landscape.
Varela Villasmil is the dynamic CEO of 2NE, a cutting-edge investment firm focused on media and strategic influence. With a background in journalism and lobbying, she brings a rare combination of editorial insight and political acumen to the forefront of her leadership.
Early in her career, Varela worked as an investigative journalist, gaining firsthand experience with the power of storytelling and public discourse. She later transitioned into lobbying, where she built a reputation as a sharp negotiator and a trusted voice in high-level policy circles.
At 2NE, she leverages her dual expertise to identify and empower media ventures that challenge conventions and shape public opinion. Known for her strategic vision and commitment to freedom of expression, Varela stands at the intersection of influence and innovation.
Her leadership continues to position 2NE as a bold actor in the evolving landscape of global communication and advocacy.
Arnoldo BALDERAS CASTILLO is a seasoned strategist with deep roots in international lobbying and geopolitics. With years of experience navigating the corridors of power in Washington, he has worked closely with successive U.S. administrations, advising on foreign policy, trade, and diplomatic strategy.
Arnoldo’s global perspective is shaped by a multicultural background and extensive fieldwork across Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East. Fluent in several languages and well-versed in cross-cultural negotiation, he is recognized for his ability to build bridges between governments, institutions, and the private sector.
His expertise lies in decoding complex geopolitical landscapes and transforming them into actionable strategies for influence and investment. As a senior advisor to 2NE, Arnoldo plays a key role in identifying high-impact opportunities at the intersection of global affairs, strategic communication, and political risk.
His insight and network make him a valuable asset in today’s volatile and interconnected world.
Jenna M. Cisse is a dedicated human rights advocate with extensive experience across Africa. Over the past decade, she has worked with several prominent NGOs focused on the defense of civil liberties, political rights, and social justice.
Her career has taken her to multiple countries across the continent, where she has lived and collaborated closely with grassroots organizations, local communities, and international institutions. Jenna’s field experience gives her a deep, nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing human rights efforts in diverse African contexts.
Her work has ranged from advocacy and policy analysis to the coordination of humanitarian programs in post-conflict zones. Known for her empathy, resilience, and strategic thinking, Jenna brings a powerful voice to global conversations on equity and dignity.
At 2NE, she contributes critical insight into ethical engagement and sustainability, ensuring that the company’s investments align with values of justice and long-term positive impact.
Trevon J. Mitchell is a data-driven strategist with a strong foundation in statistical engineering and a sharp focus on public opinion dynamics. With a background in quantitative analysis, Trevon began his career at some of the world’s leading polling institutes, where he quickly rose through the ranks thanks to his precision, methodological rigor, and deep understanding of voter behavior.
He has led major research initiatives analyzing political sentiment, social trends, and electoral volatility across diverse populations. Trevon’s expertise lies in transforming raw data into strategic insight, making him a sought-after advisor for institutions, media outlets, and policymakers.
His work bridges the gap between numbers and narrative, offering clear perspectives in an age of information overload. At 2NE, Trevon plays a central role in decoding public mood and guiding influence strategies grounded in real-world sentiment.
His analytical mind and intuitive grasp of societal shifts make him a key voice in strategic decision-making.
Bill D. Davis is a seasoned finance professional with deep expertise in investment strategy and mergers and acquisitions. With a background in top-tier investment banks operating in the USA and across the Middle East, Bill has spent over a decade structuring complex deals and advising on high-stakes transactions.
His rigorous financial training and sharp analytical skills have made him a trusted advisor to investors, corporations, and governments alike. At 2NE, Bill leads the evaluation of investment opportunities, overseeing financial due diligence, risk assessment, and long-term value analysis.
He combines a meticulous eye for detail with a strategic mindset, ensuring that every deal aligns with the firm’s vision and ethical framework. Known for his calm under pressure and no-nonsense approach, Bill plays a key role in shaping 2NE’s portfolio, bringing financial discipline and foresight to every decision.
His work ensures the firm’s growth is grounded in sound, impactful investments.