Luisa Freitas

In a nutshell, tell us about yourself.

I am Brazilian, I was born in Niterói, a city just next to Rio de Janeiro. I have an academic background in international relations and environmental policy, and I have been working with the development of international environmental projects for the past 4 years. Growing up surrounded by the beautiful natural landscape of Rio de Janeiro certainly played an important role in my interest for environmental issues.  

My first experience abroad was when I was 9 years old. I lived in Bogotá, Colombia, for a year and I think it was that experience that triggered my love for travelling and getting to know other cultures. I am very curious, and I love to learn more about people, cultures, and a wide range of topics. I am always asking questions, trying new things, and looking forward to the next new challenge.

Name three things on your bucket list.

I will name three places that I want to go and have been on my bucket list for a while: the Amazon rainforest, Tanzania and the Basque Country, Spain.

What is the hardest thing you have done in the last year?

Learning how to surf – I am still in the process, but it has been also the most rewarding thing I have done in the last year.

When are you happiest?

When I am spending time with my family and friends, or when I am travelling. Also, when I tick something off from my bucket list!

What’s the best thing about your job?

The opportunity to work with different topics, in different places and with different people. Every project is unique and brings you a new experience. You can learn so much, it is very inspiring and challenging at the same time.

If you were world leader, what’s the first thing you would change?

Make environmental issues a top priority!