Notable Speakers
Dr. Laura Mendoza
Background: A leading expert in international relations and diplomacy, Dr. Laura Mendoza holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Chicago. Her research focuses on transnational governance and conflict resolution in Latin America.
Achievements: Dr. Mendoza has advised several Colombian government bodies on peacebuilding initiatives and served as a visiting scholar at Harvard University. She is also a published author, with her latest book exploring the role of grassroots movements in shaping public policy.
Dr. Carlos Moreno
Background: Dr. Carlos Santiago is an economist and professor specializing in sustainable development and environmental policy. He earned his Master’s degree from Stanford University and later completed his doctorate at the National University of Colombia.
Achievements: As a consultant for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Dr. Santiago has led projects addressing climate change adaptation in vulnerable regions. His work has been recognized by international organizations for its innovative approach to balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
Dr. María Fernanda Torres
Background: A prominent voice in gender studies and human rights, Dr. María Fernanda Torres graduated with honors from Yale University before pursuing her Ph.D. at the University of Los Andes in Bogotá.
Achievements: Dr. Torres has worked extensively with NGOs advocating for women’s empowerment and social justice. She has delivered keynote speeches worldwide, including at the World Biodiversity Summit, where she highlighted the intersection of gender equality and environmental sustainability
Dra. Andrés Felipe Gómez
Background: Dr. Andrés Felipe Gómez is a political scientist and historian who specializes in democratization processes in post-conflict societies. He completed his undergraduate studies at Princeton University and obtained his doctorate from Universidad Nacional de Colombia.
Achievements: Known for his groundbreaking research on Colombia’s peace agreements, Dr. Gómez has collaborated with think tanks across Europe and North America. He is a sought-after speaker at international conferences, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of rebuilding nations after prolonged conflicts
Dr. Natalia Vargas
Background: Dr. Natalia Vargas is an expert in media studies and political communication. After earning her Master’s degree from Columbia University, she returned to Colombia to teach at Universidad de los Andes while continuing her research on digital activism.
Achievements: Dr. Vargas has consulted for major news outlets and tech companies, helping them navigate misinformation challenges in the digital age. Her TEDx talk on “The Power of Storytelling in Politics” gained widespread acclaim for its practical advice on leveraging narratives for social change
Prof. Javier Morales
Background: Dr. Javier Morales is a renowned sociologist and urban studies expert with over 15 years of experience analyzing the social dynamics of megacities in Latin America. He earned his Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of California, Berkeley, and later conducted postdoctoral research at Universidad Nacional de Colombia 7.
Achievements: Dr. Morales has published extensively on topics such as informal economies, migration patterns, and urban resilience. His groundbreaking study on Bogotá’s transformation into a «smart city» has been cited by policymakers and academics worldwide. He currently serves as a senior advisor to the Bogotá City Council on sustainable urban development initiative