Andrea's Story

Andrea Cruz, Mexico

Thinking about Cohort 12 overall, what was/still is the main benefit for you?

Networking is a very good benefit from LEAD, I am already taking advantage of it in México, on several issues.

The training on leadership skills, which is the kind of knowledge not usually provided is also something very benefitial from LEAD.

Most of the courses provided very interesting information about a wide range of environmental issues, in a very synthetic way, giving me a broad picture of the environmental field, through the teaching of highly qualified professionals.

What is your best memory of Cohort 12?

There are many good memories from the programme. I really managed to develop a good and I think strong relationship with my colleagues from my national programme. I have made very good friends. Also, the International training session was a very exciting and interesting experience. Although there were many worth remembering moments during the whole year, and several good moments, perhaps the waterfall at the tea plantation was one of the moments that I enjoyed the most. It was a brief but intense moment for me.

Tell us about any changes you have made in your work/life because of something you learned or an experience you had during the programme?

After the programme, but particularly after the ITS, I am very interested on adaptation, as well as mitigation strategies for climate change, particularly those directed to avoid deforestation, since these strategies are worth considering in my State.

Would you recommend the LEAD training to other people and what would you say to them?

Of course I would recommend it (I already have), and what I say about LEAD is that it is one of the top programmes in its kind in the world. The network of professionals attending the programme, and the training and information provided, combined, makes the LEAD programme a very special experience for anyone involved on environmental issues.