December 2024 Spotlight: Celebrating Maria Diaz!

Through our employee spotlight campaign, the SDSN showcases our amazing employees and volunteers to honor and celebrate the incredible strides they are making toward advancing SDSN's mission.

This month, we are spotlighting Maria Diaz, Manager of the Food, Agriculture, Biodiversity, Land-Use and Energy (FABLE) Consortium! We asked Maria five questions about herself and her work with SDSN. Read on to learn more.

Which SDG are you most passionate about?

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

What is the best part about working at SDSN?

At SDSN, the most rewarding aspect is collaborating with individuals from all over the world who are committed to reshaping the world for the better. We are all united by the mission to preserve our planet's resources and secure the well-being of both present and future generations.

What is something that you are proud to have accomplished while working at SDSN?

I am proud of the impactful network of scientists that we have built at FABLE. Despite being a small team, we have successfully grown the FABLE network and provided support to so many scientists globally. It is gratifying to see so many of them collaborating, engaging with their governments, and contributing to the sustainable transition of our food systems.

In one word, describe the 2030 Agenda.

Transformation

What is a fun fact about you? What’s something others might not know about you?

I am a competitive debate enthusiast. During my undergraduate studies in Venezuela, I joined the university debate club, participated in debate camps and competed in world debating championships in Türkiye, Slovenia, and Botswana (where I reached the semi-finals).

I am a fan of anti-food waste apps, and my ultimate pleasure is turning unsold groceries into Top Chef dishes.