With a background in mental health, grassroots development, and education, Catalina has dedicated over 10 years working towards an equitable world for women and girls across Central America. Born in Los Angeles, CA to immigrant parents and raised in Costa Rica, Catalina deeply understands the value of generational change and is determined to create a better future for all. She began her journey in environmental activism but discovered a passion for youth development, leading her to co-found the Sirenitas Surf Club in Nicaragua - a community space built to empower girls through surfing, swimming, and education. Through her work, she hopes to build a world where girls can dream big and have the tools to accomplish them. Currently, she is the Program Manager for Future Rising at Girl Rising. Catalina holds a BA in Psychology from Universidad Centroamericana de Ciencias Sociales and a Master's in Gender and Peacebuilding from the University for Peace. She's certified in art therapy by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. She's also the mother to a wild-spirited 4-year-old girl and 3 loving dogs.