Ignacia Holmes

In a nutshell, tell us about yourself.

I am enthusiastic about contributing to a better world for all. I have over 15 years of experience in climate and environmental finance, having worked with UNDP and FAO for more than 12 years in both GEF and GCF portfolios. I have a PhD in Neo-Tropical Environment Option (Participatory Conservation Biology) (McGill University-Canada) and a Master in Applied Sciences in Rural Development and Natural Resource Management (Massey University-New Zealand).  My working experience and my studies have allowed me gain important technical competencies that are relevant for contributing to E Co. in this particularly important time where there is a short window of opportunity to address the climate crisis.

What are your loves?

My family (husband, son and all sorts of pets bunny, dog, cat and hen).

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone that did the most to ensure her son has a world to enjoy.

What’s the best thing about your job?

That it allows me to work in a team committed to support countries and beneficiaries in finding solutions to pressing challenges of our time. Hopefully, making a difference improving people’s lives.

Who’s the most inspiring person you’ve ever met?

Cristiana Figueres. So proud she is a Latin American woman.

What book has changed your life?

Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics As If People Mattered is a collection of essays published in 1973 by German-born British economist E. F. Schumacher.

The title essay shows the pros of advancing small, appropriate technologies, policies, and politics as a superior alternative to the mainstream ethos of “bigger is better”. It discusses a democratic and dignified system of industrial administration, a more humane employment of machinery, and a more intelligent utilization of human ingenuity and effort.

Really inspired my approach to project design and life. I always remind myself that small is beautiful and enough to make big changes.