Carolina Duran is a distinguished economist whose unwavering passion for the transformative potential of technology and innovation has propelled her to the forefront of economic development initiatives. Her recent role as Bogota’s Secretary of Economic Development showcased her exceptional leadership in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, where she spearheaded innovative policies and resource allocation to support businesses in the city.

With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Carolina has excelled in both the public and private sectors, leaving an indelible mark on the financial industry. Her contributions to esteemed institutions, such as Citicorp Information Technologies in India, Standard Chartered Bank, and Asobancaria in Colombia, have been instrumental in shaping their strategies and operations.

Notably, Carolina's expertise extends beyond finance. As First Secretary of Foreign Affairs, she played a pivotal role in addressing transnational economic issues, including remittances and diaspora, while actively participating in the negotiation of Colombia's Free Trade Agreements. Her invaluable experience at Standard and Poor's (S&P) in the United States and Mexico further honed her skills as an Associate Director, evaluating leading infrastructure and oil and gas companies in Latin America. She also played a vital role in the analytical team responsible for sovereign ratings and public finances.

Carolina's dedication to fostering growth and progress is matched only by her thirst for knowledge. As a Fulbright and Colfuturo Scholar, she pursued a Master's Degree in International Affairs at Columbia University, a renowned institution at the heart of New York City, USA. Her academic pursuits are complemented by her degrees in Economics from the prestigious University of Barcelona, Spain, and the distinguished Universidad de los Andes in Colombia.

Beyond her professional achievements, Carolina's commitment to social change shines through her involvement as a fellow with Stanford University, where she studied the intricacies of driving positive transformation in society.

Carolina Duran's journey is an inspiring testament to her resilience, vision, and dedication to using her expertise to drive meaningful change. Her profound impact on economic development, coupled with her keen interest in technology and innovation, positions her as a leading figure in shaping a brighter future for Colombia and beyond. With her diverse skill set and unwavering determination, Carolina continues to be an exemplary role model for aspiring economists and advocates of positive change worldwide.