Ivonne is currently pursuing an MSc in Development Practice at Trinity College Dublin. Before beginning her postgraduate studies, she worked as a Policy Analyst at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), where, through the National Adaptation Plan Global Network, she contributed to international cooperation projects and provided policy and technical support to several governments in Latin America and the Caribbean on their climate adaptation planning processes. At IISD, she conducted research on multilevel governance, nature-based solutions, and other issues related to enhancing climate resilience in developing countries.
As Director for Climate Change and Environmental Policies for Costa Rica and Nicaragua at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), Ivonne specialised in climate diplomacy and international mechanisms to address climate and biodiversity issues. She acted as the bilateral liaison for UN conventions (UNFCCC and CBD) and led the international cooperation agenda in both areas. She has also worked in the civil society sector, collaborating with youth and Indigenous communities on development projects across Latin America and Southeast Asia.
In addition to these experiences, she is currently part of the Expert Advisory Panel of the Earthshot Prize, evaluating and providing recommendations on innovative solutions from around the world that address some of the most pressing environmental challenges.
Her research focuses on the implications of aid budget cuts by major international donors on local organisations – and, by extension, the resilience capacity of highly vulnerable communities. She is examining ongoing work on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and neighbouring countries, the role of international donors, and how grassroots organisations are being affected, responding, and adapting to the challenges arising from the current global context.