Victoria Hernández Rueda

Victoria Hernández Rueda is an 18-year-old Mexican student of Sustainable Energy Business Engineering at the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN). With a strong interest in the intersection between energy, environment, and social justice, she has already developed projects that reflect her commitment to sustainable solutions. During high school, she specialized in Automotive Systems and worked in a proyect called Natural Boost, focused on the conversion of an internal combustion vehicle into an electric one. This early experience sparked her curiosity about the future of clean energy and the role of youth in technological innovation.

Currently, Victoria is passionate about research that addresses the climate crisis through both technical and social perspectives. Her most recent work, presented in a policy brief titled “The Forest Died, then The River Did – A Mexican Climate Emergency” explores the relationship between deforestation and water appropriation in Mexico. By analyzing public policies and proposing alternatives, she highlights the urgent need to protect forests as natural water regulators and to ensure fair access to water for communities. This work reflects her mission of linking scientific knowledge with policy-making to have justice in environmental governance.

Beyond her academic interests, Victoria is motivated by the power of youth voices in global spaces. She believes that climate action must be rooted in equity and intergenerational collaboration, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind in the transition to sustainability. Representing Life of Pachamama at the COP allows her to contribute to an international dialogue, amplify perspectives from Mexico, and connect with diverse actors working toward systemic change.

Her long-term goal is to continue developing research and initiatives that integrate renewable energy, water management, and forest protection, while inspiring other young people to take part in building a fair and sustainable future.