Translation – PFD

As a good governance practitioner, Ina has spent the past six years cultivating her career in local government, policy innovation, and social impact — building bridges between institutions and communities, and helping shape programs that make governance more responsive, inclusive, and people-centered.

Currently serving in the City Government of Pasig at the Mayor’s Office, Ina connects stakeholders from the public and private sectors to support Pasig’s strides in good governance and service delivery. She focuses on translating these collaborations into policy and planning frameworks that strengthen institutional capacity, advance evidence-based decision-making, and embed innovation in local governance. For the past two years, she has steered Pasig City’s Local Circular Economy Action Team in implementing the EU-funded EU Green Economy Partnership (EU-GEPP) Green LGUs Project to help localize and institutionalize the circular economy in Pasig.

Mr. Ghana Shyam Giri has been serving as the Mayor of Chandragiri Municipality since 2017 A.D. and was re-elected in May 2022. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Geography (B.A.), and a Bachelor’s degree in Administration and Supervision (B.Ed.), and a Master’s degree in Nepali Language (M.Ed.), alongside Bachelor’s in English language carried out from the American Language Institute, American Embassy. With more than 36 years of experience as the founding Principal of Shree Chundevi Higher Secondary School, Mr. Giri made significant contributions to the field of education and Social Development. His political journey with the Nepali Congress party began in 1979 A.D., during which he served in several leadership roles, active participants in the mass movement of 2005. He has also contributed to the Nepal Teacher’s Association. Mr. Giri remains strongly committed to community development, good governance, and public service.

EU-Philippines Green Economy Partnership

Vani Catanasiga is the executive director of the Fiji Council of Social Services, a national NGO platform with over 350 community based organisations and 10 national NGO members. FCOSS is currently implementing one of if not the first Community Led Planned Relocation Project with the support of the Bread for the World in remote Wainunu District in Fiji’s northern division.

A celebrated speaker, trainer, consultant and though-leader, Usha Menon brings hands-on experience and unique insights she has gained from the inside-out, through 40-years of volunteering, working and consulting in the social impact space. She is the founder of Usha Menon Management Consultancy (Asia) and serves on the Global Board and a Trustee of the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR). She brings practical insight on how governance, accountability and inclusive participation can ensure that climate finance truly reaches and empowers at-risk populations. In her role at GNDR, she contributes to strategic oversight of the world’s largest civil society network dedicated to disaster risk reduction, amplifying frontline community voices into global climate and resilience policy processes. Her expertise in mobilising resources for social purpose organisations positions her as a key bridge between civil society, philanthropy and institutional climate finance, helping align funding architectures with locally led adaptation and risk-reduction priorities.

Ms. Tiene Tooki Kanoua holds a BA in Environmental Studies and an MA in Management and Public Administration, with more than 10 years of experience serving as an Administration Officer across various government ministries in Kiribati. She was appointed Executive Officer of the Kiribati Local Government Association (KiLGA) while also serving as Project Coordinator for the Blue Green Development Project. Known for her strong leadership and collaborative approach, Ms. Kanoua has played a key role in strengthening partnerships between KiLGA and the Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs (MCIA). In 2025, she successfully led the launch of the Maneaba COP initiative in collaboration with key partners including OB, MCIA, CLGF, and ICLEI. The event, opened by President Taneti Maamau, brought together government leaders, diplomats, NGOs, and communities, resulting in the “Ikarekebai Declaration” on climate survival and local action. She remains passionate about empowering local governments and advancing sustainable community development across Kiribati.

Thibaut Portevin is an experienced professional in the field of international cooperation, with expertise in promoting sustainable development and the green transition. He is currently Team Leader in charge of regional cooperation with ASEAN at DG International Partnerships, European Commission. Between 2021 and 2025, he served as Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to ASEAN and the EU Delegation to Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam. He previously already worked at the European Commission in Brussels, dealing with international cooperation on forests and on circular economy. Prior to the European Commission, he worked with civil society organisations in the Balkans, Latin America, Central Africa and Indonesia.

Sukhreet Bajwa has spent over a decade in the development sector, bringing people, ideas, and resources together to create meaningful change. She leads the GROW program at EdelGive Foundation, where she works closely with grassroots organisations to build partnerships rooted in collaboration, resilience, and shared purpose. Passionate about sustainability, disaster risk management, and community resilience, she’s always thinking about how to make systems stronger and kinder. When she’s not working, you’ll probably find her experimenting with paints and needlecrafts, or enjoying some books, inspired by everyday life.

Sujiro SEAM is a distinguished French career diplomat with more than two decades of international experience in diplomacy, European affairs, development cooperation, and global public policy. Since 2023, he has served as Ambassador of the European Union to ASEAN, based in Jakarta, Indonesia, where he oversees relations between the EU and Southeast Asian nations. Prior to this appointment, he was Ambassador of the European Union for the Pacific, based in Suva, Fiji, with accreditation to numerous Pacific island countries including Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, and the Federated States of Micronesia. Earlier in his career, he served as Ambassador of France to Fiji and several Pacific nations, as well as Consul General of France in Houston, United States, with responsibility for Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. He also held senior positions within the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris, specialising in development, food security, economic affairs, and legal policy, and worked with both the European Commission and the Permanent Representation of France to the European Union in Brussels. Educated at ENA, Sciences Po Paris, and ESCP Business School, he is also a Colonel in the French Army Citizen Reserve and a dedicated practitioner of Aikido, Karate, and Jodo.

Shivangi Chavda is the Head of Programmes at Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction, a global network of over 1,900 civil society organisations working across more than 130 countries to strengthen disaster resilience. With more than 25 years of experience in the humanitarian and development sectors, including 18 years in senior leadership roles, she specialises in disaster risk reduction (DRR), climate change adaptation, anticipatory action, and locally led resilience-building. She has led global programmes focused on integrating DRR and climate resilience into development planning, strengthening institutional capacities, and advancing risk-informed development. At GNDR, she works with governments, regional networks, and international partners to strengthen early warning systems, anticipatory action, and the localisation of disaster risk governance. Shivangi holds an MBA in Project Management from CNAM, Paris, and a Master’s degree in Banking and Industry.

Sarah Torres es coordinadora de Realidad de la Ayuda - Asia Pacífico, una red de organizaciones de la sociedad civil que proporcionan investigación y hace cabildeo sobre la ayuda y la cooperación para el desarrollo. Como coordinadora, trabaja en otras plataformas de la sociedad civil, como la Alianza de las OSC para la Eficacia del Desarrollo y el Grupo de Referencia DAC-OSC, reenviando posiciones de las OSC para una cooperación al desarrollo más efectiva y eficiente hacia la reducción de la pobreza.

Rey Asis is the deputy general manager of the Asia Pacific Mission for Migrants, a regional organisation supporting through their programs the empowerment and movement building of migrants in Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. He is currently one of the focal points of the Stakeholder Advisory Group, a multi-stakeholder platform working with the UN Network on Migration on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. He is a member of the Advisory Group for the Asia Pacific Regional CSO Engagement Mechanism, a broad, independent CSO-led regional platform that engages in the monitoring of the 2030 Agenda implementation in the region. Rey Asis is a strong supporter of migrant empowerment and their movement building while continually pushing for and realising meaningful migrant participation in norm-setting spaces.

Dr. Rekson Silaban is an economist, labor policy expert, and international labor movement leader with more than 20 years of experience in governance, social security, and labor advocacy. He has held key leadership positions in Indonesia and globally, including Supervisory Board Member of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and member of the International Labour Organization Governing Body. Currently, he serves as Chief Expert for Social Security Law Reform at DPD RI. Dr. Silaban earned his Doctorate from the University of Indonesia and completed executive programs at the University of Toronto, New York University, and University of Cambridge. He is also an author of several books on labor rights, social justice, and industrial relations, with extensive experience in international policy dialogue and organizational leadership.

Mr. Ravi Guru is a seasoned urban development professional with over two decades of experience in urban governance, climate resilience, and sustainable development. As Deputy Director General at All India Institute of Local Self-Government, he leads high-impact initiatives in partnership with government bodies, multilateral organisations, and local authorities across South Asia. His work has contributed significantly to flagship national programmes including the Smart Cities Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission, AMRUT, and Jal Jeevan Mission.

Mr. Guru has collaborated extensively with institutions such as the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, NITI Aayog, the World Bank, and international networks including UCLG ASPAC, CITYNET, and WeGO. His expertise spans climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, renewable energy, environmental management, and policy advocacy. He also plays a key leadership role in regional and global urban forums, serving on several international boards and committees focused on sustainable and inclusive city development.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Rachmat Pambudy, M.S. is the Minister of National Development Planning of Indonesia and Head of Bappenas, appointed in October 2024. He brings decades of experience in academia, public policy, and sustainable development to his ministerial role, with a strong commitment to data-driven and inclusive national planning.

Prior to his appointment, he served as a professor at IPB University, where he focused on agricultural economics, cooperative development, and rural entrepreneurship. Throughout his career, he has been actively engaged in promoting sustainable food systems, farmer empowerment, and national development strategies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.

In addition to his academic and policy work, Mr. Pambudy has advised various government institutions and international organizations on development and economic cooperation. He holds degrees in economics and agricultural business from IPB University and has contributed extensively to Indonesia’s vision for inclusive and sustainable growth towards “Golden Indonesia 2045.”

Pefi is a Daughter of the Pacific from the coral atoll of Niue. Born and raised in Niue, educated in Niue, Aotearoa New Zealand, USA and currently, still a learner residing permanently in Australia. Pefi is passionate about the Pacific, Pacific Civil Society developments for Climate Adaptation and Climate Mobility, with special attention on marginalised communities. She has leadership and management experience from across education (secondary school teacher, teacher development trainer/lecturer, educational inspector); and also, mental health, public health, and civil society sectors. As the current Pacific Regional Focal Point on Migration, she navigates for Pacific representation, visibility and collective Pacific priorities in indigenous rights, climate change, climate impacted mobility, climate finance/loss and damages, development effectiveness and the implementation of various universal instruments. She is inspired by transformative options, possibilities and the potential power of People to be best stewards of our shared Blue Oceans, Mother Earth and Her Peoples.

Monalisa Kashyap is the Program Coordinator & Advocacy Officer at the International Cooperative Alliance Asia and Pacific (ICA-AP), a member-based organization representing 122 members across 29 countries in Asia and the Pacific. She leads the ICA-EU Financial Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA) Phase II in Asia-Pacific region and also serves as the Secretary of the ICA-AP Committee on Youth Cooperation. Monalisa previously worked as Programs Head at Access Livelihoods and with Friends of Women’s World Banking, where she focused on strengthening Producer Collectives through capacity building and strategic policy initiatives. Her professional interests center on promoting equality—particularly gender and income equality—and advancing women & youth empowerment. Beyond her professional work, she is passionate about travel blogging and photography. She holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Development Management and a Bachelor of Commerce degree with Honors in Accountancy.

Michelle McIlroy is the Director of Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust and an elected Councillor of Hawke’s Bay Regional Council in Aotearoa New Zealand. She also serves as Environmental Lead for her governance board and is a committed advocate for freshwater protection, Māori rights and biodiversity restoration in Hawke’s Bay.

Michelle brings lived experience of climate disruption and Indigenous displacement, having directly experienced the impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, which devastated her home and community, followed by subsequent flooding events affecting her region. These weather events have deepened her understanding of the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related disasters impacting coastal and river communities in Aotearoa, including rising sea levels and landscape vulnerability.

Ms Michela TOMASELLA is an economist serving as Team Leader in DG INTPA and in charge of the Policy Dialogue with the CSOs and of Foundations. She oversees the consultations under the Policy Forum on Development, the Global Gateways CSOs and Local Authorities (LAs) Platform and the relations with Foundations. Until August 2025 she wasHead of Cooperation of the European Union (EU) Delegation to the Republic of Rwanda where she was in charge of all cooperation portfolio in the country including mainly Education, Agriculture, Climate Change, Urbanisation, Economic and political governance. In 2013, she joined the European Commission Directorate-General for International Partnership when she was appointed to work at EU Delegation to the Central Africa Republic. Previously, she participated in projects in Benin and in Togo to actively promote entrepreneurship, women empowerment and education. In 2006 she started working in private sector and as a consultant. At the beginning of her career, she was an economic analyst at University of Venice and of Udine (IT). Her educational background includes a Master degree in European studies at the Institute of European Studies in Louvain-La-Neuve (Belgium), a Master Degree in Economics at Ca’ Foscari University in Venice (Italy) as well as a Diploma in International Cooperation. She speaks Italian (mother tongue), English, French and Spanish.

Maimunah Mohd Sharif (born 1961) is a trailblazing Malaysian urban planner and civil servant who served as Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and the first Asian woman to serve as Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) from 2018 to 2024. During her UN tenure, she championed global sustainable urban development, climate action, and crisis prevention. Before her international leadership, she served as Mayor of Penang Island and later made history in Malaysia as the 15th and first female Mayor of Kuala Lumpur. Her early career includes managing the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site and pioneering gender-responsive participatory budgeting in local government. Trained in town planning at the University of Wales, she currently advises global organisations on urban resilience, including the COP29 Urbanisation Advisory Group and PETRONAS. Her impactful career has earned her numerous honours, including Malaysia’s Planner of the Year.

Lishia Erza is the CEO of Candra Naya Lestari, an Indonesian advisory firm specialising in climate inclusive finance and MSME development. She chairs the SME Entrepreneurship Capacity Building and Inclusive Economy committee at APINDO (Asosiasi Pengusaha Indonesia), Indonesia’s biggest and oldest employers’ association. As an Innovative Finance Specialist, Lishia leads the design of dual-toolkit instruments that connect underserved entrepreneurs (women, youth, and persons with disabilities) to appropriate climate finance, anchored in OJK’s Pedoman SETARA and Indonesia’s Sustainable Finance Taxonomy (TKBI) for KINETIK Inclusive Climate Finance Ecosystem — a sub-stream of the Australia–Indonesia Climate, Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Partnership funded by DFAT. Her practice integrates regulatory analysis, co-design methodology, and accessibility-first product design across Bahasa Indonesia and English working environments.

Lazeena Rahman is a Senior Climate Finance Specialist and an Energy Transition Policy Reform lead for the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Indonesia energy sector operations, based in Jakarta, Indonesia. Prior to assuming this role in 2022, Lazeena was as an Investment Specialist with ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department (PSOD) (2011-2016), as well as an Investment Officer for the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Blended Finance and East Asia Pacific Infrastructure teams (2016-2022). Across her roles at ADB and IFC, Lazeena has led and supported the structuring of commercial debt, equity and concessional finance with a strong transaction focus on the energy sector (geothermal, gas, solar, wind, storage) alongside work in the logistics, forestry, water supply and wastewater sectors. Lazeena holds a Joint Masters in Business Administration and Public Policy from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Harvard College.

Juliette Segard represents Expertise France, the French public agency for international technical cooperation, where she works on Asia and the Indo-Pacific. As Geographic Coordinator for the region, she contributed to the coordination of Expertise France’s activities across Asia and Pacific, working with headquarters teams and project units on sustainable development, inclusive economy, governance, peace and security. Her role included supporting regional strategy development, strengthening engagement with various stakeholders and accompanying the agency’s decentralisation and localisation of operations. She is currently based in Jakarta, where she manages a cooperation initiative with ASEAN financed by AFD. Before joining Expertise France, Juliette led Asia partnerships at CCFD-Terre Solidaire, supporting CSOs across East, Southeast and South Asia on people-centred development, socio-economic and climate justice, and democratic participation. She also previously worked with the European Commission on civil society, local authorities and territorial development. She holds a PhD in Political Geography focused on urban and territorial transformations in Vietnam.

Julia Puno es secretaria general de la Red de Investigación de Asia Pacífico (APRN), una red regional para ONG de investigación en Asia Pacífico. Antes de dirigir la secretaría, trabajó como oficial de Políticas e Investigación de la Red y Asistente de Programas en sus Programas de Economía y Comercio Pro-Personas y Justicia Climática y Recursos Naturales. Tiene años de experiencia en el desarrollo de capacidades como una de las formadoras de los programas de capacitación de APRN sobre promoción y participación, investigación y efectividad del desarrollo para OSC y organizaciones de productores. Ha facilitado la participación de organizaciones en varios diálogos intergubernamentales y espacios de participación. Sus intereses de investigación incluyen temas geopolíticos, preocupaciones climáticas, entre otros. También forma parte del grupo asesor del Mecanismo Regional de Participación de las OSC de Asia y el Pacífico (APRCEM) y fue copresidenta anterior de la plataforma, secretaría y coordinadora del sudeste asiático. Julia es parte del equipo de tareas del PFD y líder de las OSC de la plataforma para Asia Pacífico.

Jodel Dacara is the Regional Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific at WINGS, the global network of over 250 philanthropy networks, support organisations, and foundations across 60 countries. He facilitates the network’s initiatives to strengthen and grow philanthropy support ecosystems, ensure membership engagement around the network’s areas of work, and foster relations between WINGS and philanthropic actors in the AP region. Before joining WINGS, Jodel was the Network Manager of the CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness, the global civil society platform on aid and development cooperation. At CPDE, he worked on CSO enabling environment, development effectiveness advocacy, and multistakeholder partnerships. He also worked for the Reality of Aid and the Asia Pacific Research Network. He graduated from the University of the Philippines and Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand. Jodel is based in Manila, Philippines.

Hemanthi Goonasekera started her career as a development practitioner and has worked with many national and international organizations, including German Technical Cooperation, The Asia Foundation/USAID, DHV BV, Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Dutch Municipal Association, and The Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre Thailand. Her main expertise includes local governance, such as policy analysis, research and development, disaster management, training, and capacity building. Hemanthi holds a B.A. in Social Science and an MA in Development Studies and Public Policy from the University of Colombo. She is a visiting academic in the Social Science department at the Sri Lanka Institute of Local Governance, the Open University of Sri Lanka, and the University of Ruhuna. Hemanthi is the Chief Executive Officer of the Federation of Sri Lankan Local Govt. The national local government association of Sri Lanka.

Gineng Sakti is a Senior Investment Structuring Officer at Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Indonesia working on energy, infrastructure, and sustainable finance. He has extensive experience working for international development agencies such as JICA, ADB, and UNESCAP as a private sector and investment specialist. Gineng holds a master’s degree in development management from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), United Kingdom.

Faaris Pranawa is Director of Public Financing and Project Development at PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur, a state-owned development finance institution under Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance.

With over 25 years of experience across Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency, State Asset Management Company, and PT SMI, he oversees a sub-national lending portfolio of approximately USD 1.6 billion, ten active PPP projects — including Nusantara Capital City infrastructure — and USD 800 million in donor-managed funds. He has led structuring of landmark PPP transactions across urban transit, healthcare, and energy transition, and has been instrumental in shaping Indonesia’s blended finance and municipal financing frameworks. He holds a law degree from Universitas Indonesia and is a certified Risk Management professional.

Eugene Zapata Garesche serves as Team Leader of the European Union global initiative advancing the Territorial Approach to Local Development (TALD). Under contract with GIZ, the German International Development Agency, he promotes city, local, and regional governments as development actors in Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Before this, Eugene was the Global Director for Strategic Partnerships and Head of Latin America and the Caribbean for the Resilient Cities Network. From 2009-2016, he served as International Advisor to the Mayor of Mexico City, where he led the AL-LAs project, a network of European and Latin American cities working to professionalize their international affairs. He was also the Latin American Regional Director for the World Fund for City Development (FMDV) as well as the North American Secretary of METROPOLIS, a global association of the largest cities. Eugene has extensive experience in city-to-city cooperation, decentralization, and local government. He has authored dozens of books and articles and lectured on the international affairs of cities and mayors. He serves on the Editorial Board of the Americas Quarterly and is a member of the Board of Directors of Tinker Foundation. He holds a BA in International Relations from UNAM and master’s degrees from the Sorbonne and the London School of Economics.

Emeline Siale (preferred name is Siale) is a Tongan civil society leader, women’s advocate and activist, working and base in Suva, Fiji as the Executive Director of PIANGO since 2019. Prior to her life in Civil Society, she was a public servant for 15 years with the Tonga Civil Aviation Ministry. She has brought 12 years experiences from her previous role as Executive Director of the Civil Society Forum of Tonga to the region in the area of coalition building on issues as diverse as ethical leadership, women’s access to finance, women’s leadership and political participation, Seabed Mining, Climate Change, humanitarian localisation and locally led development. She represents the interests of Pacific civil society in a range of regional and international fora specifically in areas of human rights-based approach, governance, Public Finance Management and institutional building, effective and informed participation of citizens in decision making to ensure that interest and wellbeing of Pacific peoples are safeguarded. Siale believes that accountability can only be exercised when resources are invested in building of Civil Society Institutions, mechanisms and processes as accountability is about how we managed relationship in contradicting dynamics. Siale was awarded an inaugural Jose Edgardo Campos Collaborative Leadership Award in Washington DC in 2016 in recognition of her contributions to local leadership efforts in Tonga.

Elenita San Roque, known as Leni, is the Chief Executive Officer of the Asian Confederation of Credit Unions, a regional network representing more than 50 million members from over 35,000 credit unions across 23 countries. As CEO, Leni provides strategic leadership and drives organizational development, advocacy, member engagement, education, innovation, global partnerships, and financial stewardship. Her work is central to advancing ACCU’s mission and ensuring the growth and sustainability of Asian credit unions. Among her achievements is the 37 Credit Union Business Solutions, designed to help credit unions serve members more effectively while staying true to their cooperative mission. These pioneering tools include the Guide for Credit Unions on Climate Action and the Assessment Tool for Green Cooperatives. Leni serves on the Board of Directors of the International Raiffeisen Union, is a Raiffeisen Ambassador, a Certified Public Accountant, and a graduate of UC Berkeley’s Women’s Executive Leadership Program.

Donna is a dedicated professional with over 25 years of experience across academe, financial sector, development and cooperative industry. She drives strategic leadership in human resources, organizational development, innovation, and partnerships that advance organizational resilience, education and sustainability. She has been actively involved in initiatives on gender-smart Climate and Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance (CDRFI) that strengthen inclusive and climate-resilient communities. Passionate about lifelong learning and people development, Donna has earned post-graduate certifications in Cooperative Management and Insurance Development from institutions both locally and internationally. She holds a degree in Business Administration major in Economics from Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology and an Executive MBA from the Asian Institute of Management. She currently serves on the ICA-AP Committee on Cooperatives in Educational Institutions (ICEI), contributing to regional initiatives that promote cooperative education and leadership development.

Dhiraj Katari is a sustainability professional with 10 years of work experience in sustainable development, green building certification, and stakeholder engagement. He currently leads the Green Homes certification portfolio and stakeholder engagement initiatives at the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). With extensive experience in green building certification, policy engagement, and sustainable development, he has played a key role in driving certification processes, conducting technical reviews, and supporting the development and enhancement of rating frameworks. Dhiraj actively works with developers, government bodies, industry stakeholders, and institutions to promote sustainable built environments through training programs, technical capacity building, and collaborative initiatives. He has successfully supported the certification of numerous green building projects and is passionate about advancing climate-responsive, scalable, and impactful sustainability solutions.

Ms Claire Frost is Head of Programmes at the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF). She is based at CLGF Headquarters in London (UK) and works extensively with CLGF’s regional teams in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Pacific. She leads on the coordination of CLGF’s portfolio of projects and has extensive experience in supporting local governments in inter-governmental relations, local economic development, climate resilience, SDGs, social inclusion and addressing inequalities. She supports the coordination of theCommonwealth Women in Local Government Network (ComWLG) and the Commonwealth Sustainable Cities Network (CSCN). She is CLGF’s operational lead on the relationship with the European Union both in the coordination and implementation of the CLGF Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA) and as the representative to the Policy Forum for Development (PFD) and PLATFORMA.

She has a Masters degree in urban planning and a BA in communications. Prior to joining CLGF she worked as a Programme Officer with United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) in Barcelona. She has 20 years of experience working with local government at the local, national and international level.

Cécile Leroy is Cooperation Programme manager for green and inclusive economy in the Cooperation section of the European Union Delegation to the Lao PDR. In Lao PDR since September 2021, she is working on green growth, natural resources, biodiversity, environment, circular economy and climate change and overviewing the Global Gateway flagship programme “Trade, Investment and Connectivity for Agriculture and Forestry (TICAF)”. Her job is to support sector and policy analysis, development, implementation and monitoring of projects, including coordination with Government partners, Civil Society Organisations, Private Sector representatives and other Development Partners. Cécile has spent almost 25 years in the South-East Asia region, in Vietnam and Indonesia, in different positions, including for regional cooperation with ASEAN. She also has private sector experience. Cécile holds a Master of Sciences in development economics and environment economic valuation.

Ms. Caroline Edant is currently the Deputy Country Director of Agence française de développement (AFD)’s office in Jakarta (Indonesia). From 2019 to July 2023, she held the position of biodiversity and climate regional policy officer at the AFD’s Pacific Ocean Regional office in Noumea in New Caledonia. She joined AFD’s headquarters in Paris in 2014 as a senior climate expert. She previously spent seven years at international public transit operator Transdev as a climate expert and worked as a sustainable development consultant for a private equity firm in Chile. She holds a Post Master Degree in Environmental Management (from Mines ParisTech) and a Master Degree in Political Sciences (Sciences Po Paris).

Betty joined the Business and Human Rights Centre in February 2019 as its first Asia Regional Manager and was appointed, in December 2021, as Director of Regional Programmes to lead the Centre’s teams of experts in Asia and Pacific, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe and Central Asia. Betty came to the Centre from 5 years at FORUM-ASIA, and prior to that at the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative. Betty started her human rights work at the Institute for Policy Research & Advocacy, where she spent 8 years developing and strengthening its research and international advocacy work.

A Chevening scholar, Betty holds an LL.M in international human rights law from the University of Essex, United Kingdom. She has a bachelor’s degree in international law from the Catholic University of Atma Jaya, Jakarta.

Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi is the first woman to serve as Secretary General of United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC), the largest regional section of the global UCLG network. With over two decades of experience in urban development, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and local governance, she is a respected leader in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Her career includes roles at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), CITYNET in Yokohama, and visiting professorships in Japan. Dr. Bernadia holds a PhD in Urban Engineering from the University of Tokyo and master’s degrees in Atmospheric Physics and Public Policy. She is a member of the UN-Habitat Advisory Group on Gender Issues and the Expert Group on Climate and SDGs Synergy. Her leadership at UCLG ASPAC has led to major milestones, including ASEAN recognition of the ASEAN Mayors Forum and the formation of the Asia-Pacific Local Government Coordinating Body. She has been instrumental in supporting cities with SDG localisation and Voluntary Local Reviews. Her work has earned multiple accolades, including a UN-Habitat citation in 2023. As Secretary General, she oversees strategy, operations, and advocacy for sustainable urban development across the Asia-Pacific.

Ms. Assel Kurmantayeva has six years of experience in the development sector. Assel is an international consultant who collaborates with academia, government, business and civil society organizations across Central Asia, Europe and beyond. She currently serves as a project analyst and has worked as a consultant for the Innovation for Change Central Asia hub within ARGO. She has designed and delivered complex projects for the European Union, US State Department, World Bank, CRDF Global, CEEMAN and multiple NGOs, overseeing budgets, monitoring & evaluation, stakeholder outreach and consortium management. Previously, she led Strategic and International Development at a university and has worked as an expert for national research institutes and companies. Her research interests include social innovation, NGO management, strategic management and project management. Assel holds a BSc (Hons) in Economics from the University of Essex (UK) and an MSc in Management from Almaty Management University (Kazakhstan).

National Association of Mongolian Agricultural Cooperatives President Ts. Altantuya is a leading figure in Mongolia’s agricultural cooperative and rural development sector. She has extensive experience managing national and international projects focused on cooperative development, agricultural marketing, land governance, and poverty reduction. Her key roles have included leading the development of Mongolia’s Master Plan for Herder Cooperatives, adapting the International Labour Organization “My.Coop” training package for Mongolia, and serving as coordinator and expert for projects supported by organizations such as the World Bank, International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the EU. She served as Chairperson of the Asian Farmers Association for Sustainable Rural Development from 2022–2024 and currently serves on the International Land Coalition Council. She also holds leadership roles in Mongolia’s cooperative movement. Mrs. Altantuya graduated from the University of Humanities of Mongolia and has completed extensive professional training in cooperative management and rural development.

Christian Burgsmüller asumió el cargo de jefe de la División Americas.1 (Asuntos Regionales) en el Servicio Europeo de Acción Exterior (SEAE), el 1 de septiembre de 2024. Su carrera diplomática incluye haber sido jefe adjunto de la Delegación de la UE en Canadá entre 2020 y 2024, y dirigir la sección de Cuestiones Mundiales en la Delegación de la UE en los Estados Unidos en Washington, DC (2010-2014). También encabezó la sección política y de prensa de Brasil (2006-2010) y fue agregado en la embajada alemana en Argentina en 1999. Jurista de formación, Christian estudió en Friburgo, Ginebra y Colonia y es doctorado en Derecho Constitucional.

Gabriel Mato Adrover es diputado español del Parlamento Europeo (MEP) desde 2009, reelegido para los mandatos 2014-2019, 2019-2024 y 2024-2029. Miembro del Partido Popular de España (PPE), actualmente se desempeña como Copresidente europeo de la Asamblea Parlamentaria Euro-Latinoamericana (EuroLat) y Presidente de la Delegación del Parlamento Europeo ante EuroLat. También es miembro de la Conferencia de Presidentes de Delegaciones (CPDE), del Comité de Comercio Internacional (INTA) y de la Delegación en el Comité Parlamentario Mixto UE-Chile (D-CL). Como suplente, forma parte de las Comisiones de Asuntos Exteriores (AFET), de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural (AGRI) y de Pesca (PECH). El señor Mato es licenciado en Derecho y anteriormente ocupó cargos jurídicos y políticos de alto nivel en las Islas Canarias, España.

Daniel Caggiani es senador uruguayo, reelegido en 2024 para el período 2025-2030, en representación del Frente Amplio. Actualmente se desempeña como Presidente del Parlamento del Mercosur (Parlasur) para el período 2019-2029 y como Copresidente latinoamericano de la Asamblea Parlamentaria Euro-Latinoamericana (EuroLat). Activista social y político de larga trayectoria dentro del Movimiento de Participación Popular (MPP) y del Espacio 609 del Frente Amplio, ejerce funciones parlamentarias desde 2011. El Sr. Caggiani fue anteriormente Vicepresidente de Parlasur, ha presidido varias comisiones del Senado, entre ellas las de Trabajo (2023) y Transporte y Obras Públicas (2024), y es miembro de la Unión Interparlamentaria (UIP). Actualmente coordina la bancada del Frente Amplio en el Senado uruguayo.

Yolanda Villavicencio Mapy es economista y diplomática colombiana, Ministra de Relaciones Exteriores desde julio de 2025. Nacida en Bogotá y formada en el liderazgo social desde su experiencia como migrante en España, ha defendido los derechos de las comunidades migrantes y promovido la integración y la igualdad a través de organizaciones de la sociedad civil. Su trayectoria en migración, cooperación internacional y derechos humanos la posiciona como una voz que une territorios y personas. Desde la Cancillería impulsa una diplomacia ciudadana, feminista e integradora, que proyecta a Colombia como un país solidario, equitativo y comprometido con la vida.

Hadja Lahbib es la Comisaria Europea de Igualdad, Preparación y Gestión de Crisis. Es responsable de promover la igualdad y la inclusión en toda la Unión Europea, defendiendo los derechos de las minorías con el objetivo de crear una sociedad y un modelo social más justos para todos. También lidera el trabajo de la UE en materia de preparación y gestión de crisis, garantizando un enfoque más sólido y proactivo de la gestión de crisis europea y de la preparación civil, tanto dentro de nuestras fronteras como en el escenario mundial. En este cargo, desempeña un papel central en la definición y supervisión de la acción humanitaria de la UE en todo el mundo. Trabajando en estrecha colaboración con la Dirección General de Protección Civil y Operaciones de Ayuda Humanitaria Europeas (DG ECHO), establece la orientación estratégica de la política humanitaria de la Unión y garantiza que la asistencia de la UE sea basada en las necesidades, guiada por principios y en pleno respeto del derecho internacional humanitario. Antes de incorporarse a la Comisión Europea, la Sra. Lahbib se desempeñó como Ministra de Asuntos Exteriores, Asuntos Europeos, Comercio Exterior e Instituciones Culturales Federales de Bélgica (2022–2024). Previamente, tuvo una larga carrera en la radiodifusora pública francófona de Bélgica RTBF (1993–2022) como periodista, presentadora de noticias y realizadora de documentales. La Sra. Lahbib codirigió Brussels 2030, preparando la candidatura de la ciudad para ser Capital Europea de la Cultura. Es licenciada en Periodismo y Comunicación por la Université Libre de Bruxelles, y completó una formación ejecutiva en Gestión del Cambio y Liderazgo Digital en la Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management.

Juan Sebastián Rodríguezián Fernández. Joven barranquillero con destacada trayectoria en liderazgo social, educativo y político juvenil, miembro del Youth Sounding Board de la Unión Europea, delgado para el outreach to and engagement with young in the EU external action, Consejero Distrital de Juventud de Barranquilla y ha sido embajador del país en foros globales como One Young World en Inglaterra y Global Gateway Youth en Bruselas. Ex-Embajador de la estrategia SoyBilingüe, con la que se construyó la primera política pública de bilingüismo en Colombia, creyente del liderazgo juvenil como clave de grandes transformaciones.

María Paula Castro Rodríguez es Comunicadora Social y Periodista, nacida en Arauca (Arauca). Cuenta con estudios complementarios en marketing y producción de eventos en vivo, y con una sólida trayectoria en comunicaciones digitales, internas y corporativas para entidades públicas y privadas. Su experiencia abarca la creación de estrategias de comunicación, redacción de contenidos y gestión de redes sociales institucionales. Asimismo, ha ejercido como maestra de ceremonias en eventos de la Gobernación y la Registraduría Especial de Arauca, destacándose por su presencia escénica y su capacidad para conectar con el público y actualmente, en actos oficiales del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores.

This bio will be published soon

Andrés Rodríguez Cárdenas, a 20-year-old Colombian youth, has made sustainability and social justice his life’s purpose. Through the Luces de Paz initiative, he brings electric light to communities without access, combining innovation, empathy, and environmental action. A youth councilor and social leader, he has represented Colombia at international forums in Washington, New York, Argentina, Ecuador, and Brazil. He participated in FAO’s World Food Forum, amplifying youth voices for sustainable food systems. His leadership inspires thousands of young people to believe in their transformative power and to build a fairer, greener future.

Nelson Javier Restrepo Arango. Director de la Dirección de Derechos Humanos y Derecho Internacional Humanitario, Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Colombia. Abogado, investigador, educador y defensor de derechos humanos con extensa trayectoria en investigaciones sobre violencia política, parapolítica y memoria histórica durante más de 35 años. Fue Director de Derechos Humanos del Instituto Popular de Capacitación (1996–2000) y ha desempeñado funciones de asesoría en instituciones públicas en España. Autor y coautor de investigaciones y libros como Nos matan y no es noticia, y responsable de la articulación interinstitucional de seguimiento a recomendaciones internacionales sobre derechos humanos.

Marlene Holzner es Jefa de la Unidad de Sociedad Civil, Autoridades Locales y Fundaciones de la DG INTPA (Comisión Europea) desde 2020. Es responsable de diseñar y ejecutar el programa de OSC 2021-2027 con un equipo de 20. Anteriormente trabajaba durante 10 años para el comisario Guenter H. Oettinger como portavoz y miembro del Cabinete. Licenciada en la London School of Economics and Political Science, Marlene ha trabajado muchos años como periodista (WirtschaftsWoche, Berlín) antes de uniéndose a la Comisión Europea.

Claudia Paz y Paz es abogada, Directora del Programa México y Centroamérica Centro por la Justicia y el Derecho Internacional (CEJIL). Antes de unirse al equipo de CEJIL, Claudia fue la primera mujer en ocupar el cargo de fiscal general de Guatemala, donde creía en el estado de derecho como una fuerza que podía fortalecer a la sociedad a través de los pilares de la paz, la justicia y la igualdad. Como la primera oficina de aplicación de la ley de Guatemala en perseguir a combatientes de alto rango de la guerra civil por crímenes de guerra, logró la condena de miembros de alto rango del ejército y del ex jefe de Estado Ríos Montt por genocidio y crímenes de lesa humanidad. Además, Claudia formó parte del Grupo de Expertos Independientes (GIEI) de la Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos encargado de investigar la desaparición de los 43 estudiantes de Ayotzinapa, México; así como una segunda iteración del GIEI, que se encargó de investigar la violencia que tuvo lugar en Nicaragua a raíz de las protestas del 18 de abril. De 2017-2018 Fue secretaria de Seguridad Multidimensional de la Organización de Estados Americanos.

Oficial de Planificación Estratégica del Grupo Social ONCE, España. Periodista de formación, lleva una década trabajando desde la sociedad civil en ámbitos de la cooperación al desarrollo y las relaciones internacionales con el objetivo de contribuir a la inclusión social de las personas con discapacidad, colectivo al que también pertenece. Cuenta con formación de posgrado en comunicación institucional, diseño de proyectos sociales e implementación de intervenciones de cooperación internacional al desarrollo. Durante ocho años, su trabajo ha estado enfocado en la región de América Latina y Caribe, en la que ha interactuado con Gobiernos, organizaciones internacionales, sector privado y otros actores de la Sociedad Civil.

Activista venezolana, defensora del desmantelamiento de los sistemas de opresión mediante la participación cívica significativa y la inclusión de los jóvenes. Más de tres años de experiencia en el liderazgo del Movimiento Estudiantil Nacional. Fundador de «Juventud Cívica», un programa venezolano destinado a aumentar la participación cívica de los jóvenes a través de espacios de diálogo sociopolítico y centros de intercambio de habilidades. Miembro del Consejo Consultivo Juvenil de la Unión Europea, de la Red Global de Constructores de Paz, co-creador de la Campaña Global por la Paz de Peace Direct y Changemaker de Kofi Annan. Actualmente es coordinador de participación juvenil en la Alianza Mundial para la Participación Ciudadana CIVICUS, donde dirige una red de más de 4000 activistas juveniles de más de 150 países que colaboran para fortalecer la acción de los jóvenes en la sociedad civil a través de enfoques innovadores centrados en la juventud.

Magdalena Bordagorry es abogada de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Master en Antropología Cultural y Estudios del Desarrollos por la KU Leuven. Se ha desempeñado como Policy and Membership Development Officer en la red europea Eurodiaconia, donde trabajó los temas de lucha contra la pobreza e inclusión social. Anteriormente ha trabajado con mujeres migrantes, así como con mujeres sobrevivientes de violencia de género en Chile. Actualmente es la Coordinadora de Políticas y Redes de la Red UE-LAT, una red de más de 40 organizaciones europeas que promueven la solidaridad entre los pueblos de América Latina y de Europa, realizando incidencia para promover políticas europeas participativas, con una perspectiva de género, que promuevan los derechos humanos y la democracia en América Latina.

Lucy Garrido es periodista, editora y productora creativa. Integra Cotidiano Mujer, la Articulación Feminista Marcosur y el Grupo de Trabajo de las Organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil CELAC/UE. Coordina los Diálogos Consonantes, el ranking Isoquito, Sistema de Alertas Regional en Derechos Sexuales y Derechos Reproductivos, Causa Abierta, la Campaña "Tu boca, fundamental contra los fundamentalismos" y el Fondo Regional de Apoyo a las Organizaciones Feministas. Ha producido para el movimiento las piezas "Mujeres migrantes. Mujeres con derechos" y "El mundo al revés es posible"; y para la CEPAL “La seguridad ciudadana empieza por casa”, “Qué Estado para qué Igualdad”y “Hacia la sociedad de los cuidados”, entre otros.

Sergio Chaparro Hernández es coordinador internacional en Dejusticia, y encargado de incidencia y política internacional en la Tax Justice Network. Es economista y filósofo con maestrías en derecho de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia y de desigualdades y ciencias sociales en la London School of Economics. Sergio es becario para la igualdad económica y social en el Atlantic Institute.

Marie L’Hostis es Coordinadora de Incidencia en Forus, una red global que reúne a 72 plataformas nacionales y 7 coaliciones regionales, representando a más de 24.000 organizaciones de la sociedad civil en todo el mundo. Lidera la estrategia de incidencia de Forus bajo el pilar “Influir”, enfocándose en fortalecer el entorno habilitante para la sociedad civil, promover una gobernanza inclusiva y fomentar su participación en procesos políticos globales. Su trabajo se centra en amplificar la voz colectiva de las organizaciones miembros y fortalecer su incidencia conjunta a nivel nacional, regional y global.

Inma Alonso Delgado es responsable de relaciones UE-América Latina y el Caribe y de financiación para el desarrollo en La Coordinadora de Organizaciones para el Desarrollo (España). Licenciada en Ciencias de la Comunicación-Periodismo, Máster en Acción Política —con especialización en igualdad y violencia de género—, postgrado de Especialista en Información Internacional y doctoranda en Comunicación, en la línea de investigación de políticas públicas y comunicación. Cuenta con más de 15 años de experiencia profesional en entidades de sociedad civil —en España y 12 países de África y América Latina—, liderando estrategias de asuntos públicos, incidencia política y social, comunicación, sensibilización y movilización.

Luciana Torchiaro es consejera regional para América Latina y el Caribe en el Secretariado de Transparency International (TI). Con más de 15 años de experiencia en la sociedad civil, Luciana es responsable de coordinar a la red de capítulos de TI en la región, y lidera en iniciativas regionales. Además, es miembro del grupo de trabajo global de TI en género e inclusión. Anteriormente, trabajó como coordinadora de proyectos en Nueva Sociedad, Fundación Friedrich Ebert; y trabajó como asesora técnica en la Secretaría de Asuntos Internacionales de Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Luciana fue becaria de la Fundación Ford, es licenciada en Ciencias Políticas por la Universidad de Buenos Aires y tiene una Maestría en Estudios Internacionales por la Universidad Torcuato Di Tella.

João Figueiredo es Líder Regional de GNDR para América Latina y el Caribe, con amplia experiencia en desarrollo urbano, gestión del riesgo de desastres y adaptación al cambio climático. João es arquitecto y urbanista con maestría en Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo Urbano por la universidad TU-Darmstadt, Alemania y UIC, Barcelona, España. Además, João, ha liderado proyectos en países de América Latina, el Caribe y África. Su trabajo se centra en fortalecer infraestructuras y comunidades resilientes mediante estrategias innovadoras y adaptadas al contexto local. João es comprometido con el empoderamiento comunitario, promueve la colaboración entre sectores para un desarrollo sostenible e inclusivo.

Carla Álvarez González es jurista especializada en gobernanza, sostenibilidad e impacto social. Representa al Consejo de la Juventud de España (CJE) ante el European Youth Forum (YFJ), donde trabaja por fortalecer la participación juvenil y el papel de la sociedad civil en la cooperación birregional y los espacios internacionales de diálogo. Con experiencia en diplomacia, derechos humanos y desarrollo sostenible, impulsa alianzas que conectan a jóvenes, instituciones y comunidades para construir políticas más inclusivas y sostenibles.

Pedro P. Bocca es licenciado en Relaciones Internacionales y tiene una maestría en Ciencias Políticas. Cuenta con más de 15 años de experiencia en incidencia política y defensa de organizaciones de la sociedad civil nacionales e internacionales, abarcando temas como espacios cívicos y democracia, derechos humanos, justicia climática, desarrollo sostenible y financiación para el desarrollo. Actualmente es Coordinador de Relaciones Internacionales y Políticas Públicas de GIFE, plataforma que reúne a 170 institutos y fundaciones filantrópicas brasileñas.

Susana Eróstegui es directora ejecutiva de la Red Boliviana de Cooperación Internacional, REBCI, representante de la Mesa de Articulación de Asociaciones Nacionales y Redes Regionales de ONGs de América Latina y El Caribe en el Foro Político sobre Desarrollo de la Unión Europea. Es Licenciada en Ciencias de la Comunicación con Postgrados en Derechos Humanos, Comunicación para el Desarrollo Sostenible, y Proyectos de Desarrollo. Tiene experiencia en gestión institucional y desarrollo organizacional, captación de recursos financieros, incidencia pública y política, comunicación estratégica, transparencia y rendición de cuentas, entorno propicio, diálogo político multiactor sobre efectividad de las OSC y efectividad del desarrollo.

Tania Sánchez Montaño es directora de la Coordinadora de la Mujer, una red de instituciones feministas que trabajan por los derechos de las mujeres en Bolivia, es integrante del Foro Ciudadano CELAC – UE de la AOED LAC, la Articulación Feminista del Marcosur – AFM y la Red Trenzando Cuidados. Activista y feminista boliviana con experiencia en la elaboración de políticas públicas y presupuestos con enfoque de género, y en la planificación y ejecución de programas que promuevan la equidad, tiene estudios en sociología y se ha especializado en temas de género, planificación y presupuestación pública.

José Ramón Ávila es abogado y ha trabajado en proyectos sociales con grupos vulnerables, promoviendo el respeto a los Derechos Humanos en Honduras. Posee amplia experiencia en género, inclusión, defensa del territorio, migración, seguridad alimentaria, gestión de riesgos, gobernanza y participación ciudadana. Desde 2008 es Director Ejecutivo de la Asociación de Organismos no Gubernamentales de Honduras (ASONOG) y actualmente funge como Secretario Ejecutivo de la Concertación Regional para la Gestión de Riesgo de Centroamérica. Además, representa a diversas redes regionales y globales como la Alianza de Organizaciones para la Ayuda al Desarrollo, el Foro Ciudadano de las Américas, FORUS y la Red Mundial de Organizaciones de Sociedad Civil (GNDR).

Jared Ortiz González, es un profesional de políticas públicas y desarrollo organizacional con una sólida trayectoria en el sector sin fines de lucro de República Dominicana. Como Director Ejecutivo de Alianza ONG, lidera una red multisectorial dedicada a fortalecer el sector social. Ha ocupado roles clave en Aldeas Infantiles SOS y World Vision, desarrollando competencias en recaudación de fondos, comunicación, gestión programática y alianzas estratégicas. Académicamente, posee una Especialidad en Desarrollo Organizacional del Tecnológico de Monterrey, un Postgrado en Alta Gestión Empresarial. Actualmente se encuentra finalizando una especialidad en Gestión de la Cooperación Internacional en FLACSO.

Francisco Mantilaro, vive en la Patagonia Argentina, es miembro de Fundación Otras Voces desde hace 25 años y actual presidente; miembro de la comisión Directiva de Red Encuentro de entidades no Gubernamentales para el desarrollo con más de 40 años de trabajo en Argentina, red que nuclea a 40 organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil con representación en todo el país, ocupándose de temas relacionados con educación, juventud, género, derechos humanos, pueblos originarios, salud, hábitat, entre otros. También es socio fundador de Liquen Consultora , una organización con propósito regenerativo. Francisco es Consultor Psicológico y trabaja desde una perspectiva holística basada en la comunicación no violenta sobre los procesos de sanación y transformación con propósito e impacto, acompañando comunidades, empresas, gobiernos y organizaciones sociales de distinto tipo.

Jessica Vidales Ferro es la Coordinadora de la Coalición LAC RMD, una alianza de ONG internacionales que trabajan por los derechos de refugiados, migrantes y desplazados en América Latina y el Caribe. Con más de 10 años de experiencia en incidencia, alianzas estratégicas y comunicaciones en contextos humanitarios y de desarrollo, ha trabajado con NRC, Geneva Call y el PMA, y como consultora con otras organizaciones. Durante su trayectoria, incluyendo en Bruselas, ha liderado iniciativas de incidencia con gobiernos, la Unión Europea y agencias de la ONU. Psicóloga de la Universidad de los Andes y magíster en desarrollo de la Université Catholique de Louvain, Jessica aporta una visión estratégica, multilingüe y colaborativa a espacios de diálogo y formulación de políticas.

Bibiana Aido Almagro se incorporó a ONU Mujeres como directora regional para las Américas y el Caribe en septiembre de 2025. Anteriormente, fue representante de ONU Mujeres en Colombia desde 2021, representante de país en Ecuador (2017-2021), asesora de Programas para las Américas y el Caribe (2013-2017) y asesora especial de la Directora Ejecutiva (2011-2013) en Nueva York. Sirvió en el Gobierno de España como la primera Ministra de Igualdad (2008-2010) y como Secretaria de Estado para la Igualdad (2010-2011). Trabajó en la Consejería de Cultura de la Junta de Andalucía, primero como delegada provincial de cultura de Cádiz (2003-2006), y posteriormente, como directora de la Agencia Andaluza para el Desarrollo del Flamenco (2006-2008). Doctora en Administración y Dirección Empresas (2012-2016) por la Universidad de Cádiz, España, y Licenciada en Administración y Dirección de Empresas por la misma universidad (1994-1999). Cuenta con varios reconocimientos por su trayectoria a favor de la igualdad de género y los derechos de las mujeres (Doctorado Honoris causa por la Universidad de Northumbria, Reino Unido, y premio a la implicación social por la Universidad de Cádiz, España).

Pelayo Castro Zuzuárregui (Valencia, 14 de abril de 1976) es actualmente director para las Américas en el Servicio Europeo de Acción Exterior (SEAE) en Bruselas. Anteriormente se desempeñó como Asesor en el Gabinete del Alto Representante Josep Borrell y como jefe de División para Egipto, Siria, Líbano y Jordania en el SEAE. De 2019 a 2021 fue Embajador de la Unión Europea en Nicaragua, y de 2015 a 2019, Embajador en Costa Rica. También fue miembro del Gabinete de la Alta Representante Catherine Ashton y jefe de la División de Relaciones con el Parlamento Europeo y los Parlamentos Nacionales del SEAE.

Josefina Sánchez es referente y dirigente cooperativo Nacional y Provincial. Presidente y Coordinadora general de Cooperativa de Trabajo Soltrecha (Solidaridad Trento Chaqueña) Ltda., empresa social innovadora en el área de cuidados domiciliarios, centrada en la asistencia a adultos mayores, personas en situación de discapacidad, enfermos y niños; Presidente "Federación de Cooperativas de Trabajo de Cuidados Integrales de Argentina" (FECOOP CUIDAR); Presidente Comisión de Asociados del Banco Credicoop, filial 375.; Consejera titular del Consejo de Administración de la "Federación de Cooperativas de Trabajo de Argentina" (FECOOTRA). Integrante del Directorio de la ex Incubadora de Cooperativas y Mutuales de Cuidados del INAES. Diplomada en Los Servicios de Cuidados para Adultos Mayores y su Organización Cooperativa. Posgrado en Economía Social y Entidades sin Fines de Lucro.

Ximena Torres es Representante País de Fundación Avina en Colombia y Gerente Programática del Programa de Agua. Con más de dos décadas de experiencia, lidera iniciativas de colaboración multiactor orientadas al desarrollo sostenible, la gobernanza democrática y la justicia socioambiental en América Latina. Su trabajo se centra en promover la gestión democrática del agua, fortalecer capacidades locales y construir alianzas que impulsen transiciones hacia sociedades más equitativas y sostenibles.

Médica máster en Investigación social en salud y Doctora en Bioética y Salud Colectiva. Investigadora, docente y experta internacional en el campo del derecho a la salud, la salud y los derechos sexuales y reproductivos, y la igualdad de género. Sus contribuciones más importantes en materia de igualdad han tenido lugar en el campo del derecho a la salud así como en las reflexiones sobre los cuidados que incluyen una opinión experta sobre el tema presentada ante la Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos en el 2023. Ha sido asesora internacional para el UNFPA, la OMS, ONUMUJERES y CEPAL y fue directora nacional de Salud Pública en Colombia. Co-fundadora de la Mesa por la Vida y la Salud de las Mujeres, organización donde surge el Movimiento Causa Justa que llevo a Colombia a tener la regulación más garantista de América Latina y el Caribe en materia de aborto y es integrante de la Articulación Feminista Marcosur. Su publicación más reciente “Conversaciones fuera de la Catedral: una historia del aborto en Colombia” es con Laila Abu Shihab y Cristina Villlareal (Penguin, 2024).

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