Alejandra Gutiérrez

What inspired you to pursue a career in international development and peacebuilding?

I chose to specialize in international development because it provides the tools to design, implement and evaluate programs that create lasting impact. It also allows me to continue building projects I’m passionate about, with a stronger technical grounding and more strategic approach. 

Tell us a bit about your background before joining IE University.

While studying my bachelor’s degree in international relations, I wanted to gain real-life experience of what I was learning. So I collaborated with multiple organizations on sustainable development and peace, areas that have since become central to my professional identity.  

Over time, I’ve been involved in local, national and international processes, such as serving on the Mexican delegation to the UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2022, and co-facilitating civil society’s response to Mexico’s Voluntary National Review at the HLPF in 2024.  

I also co-founded my own organization promoting youth, peace and security in Mexico and the LAC (Latin America & the Caribbean) region, and I’ve managed or collaborated on large-scale campaigns like Race for Oceans, #RevitalizalosOcéanos and the Global Week to #Act4SDGs. 

How have your experiences influenced your journey?  

After my undergraduate studies, I participated in international development projects and advocacy efforts with organizations like MY World Mexico. I also became involved in peacebuilding, centered on youth issues, through projects with the Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation. My work with their Investing and Partnering with Youth for Peace (IPYP) initiative helped expand my approach beyond seeing young people as key to peacebuilding to include a framework for financially empowering them to implement amazing projects in their own communities.  

Has leading youth initiatives and co-founding your observatory shaped your approach to challenges in sustainable development and youth empowerment?

Co-founding the Observatorio de Juventudes Unidas por la Paz (OJUP) and my work on various youth-focused efforts have greatly shaped the way I see the world. But in terms of sustainable development and youth empowerment specifically, they’ve influenced my approach in two main ways: first, I learned that partnerships are essential. Now, I prioritize coalition-building over individual action because together, we can reach more people, gain a broader perspective and ensure stakeholder ownership. 

Second, I see why grassroots outreach is key. Policies and projects only matter when local communities take ownership and adapt them to their own realities. That’s why I prioritize translating global frameworks to the local level in a way that reflects a community’s reality and serves the real needs of the population. 

What’s been the most meaningful learning experience in the program so far?

I’ve enjoyed a lot of things about the Master in International Development, but what stands out is the Managing Humanitarian Crises simulation. Designing and building a simulated refugee camp was incredibly impactful, as it forced us to step into the shoes of decision-makers under pressure, as well as the refugees. Most importantly, it helped us understand how one small decision can significantly affect people’s lives. 

Which part of the program has influenced your understanding of international development or peacebuilding the most?

In general, workshops are one of the most valuable components of the program because they allow us to meet inspiring professionals who are leaders in the field. Throughout these sessions, we learn both the theory and how decisions are made in the real world.  

My favourite workshops have been on human security and community mobilization. They provided interesting insights that I’ll put into practice in my future endeavors. For instance, I learned the value of empowering local communities to lead their own development transformations to ensure projects are both sustainable and successful. 

Risk in International Development is the stand-out course so far. It’s taught me to question mainstream development practices how to integrate risk analysis into every stage of project design and implementation. 

How does IE University enrich your learning outside of class?

Beyond the classroom, the connections I’ve built through the program have significantly enriched my learning experience. Engaging with peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds has broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of global challenges. IE Foundation events and other networking opportunities have allowed me to interact with practitioners and changemakers, reinforcing my motivation to contribute meaningfully to the field. 

Additionally, participating in CIVICA has provided a valuable opportunity to collaborate with students from other European universities. Learning alongside peers from different backgrounds has strengthened my appreciation for inclusive policymaking and highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing global development issues. 

How has collaborating with an international cohort influenced you personally and professionally?

Collaborating with an international cohort has significantly enriched my perspective as a person and a professional. Having the opportunity to engage with people from diverse backgrounds has challenged some of my assumptions and strengthened my ability to listen, especially in leadership. Throughout this program, I’ve been intentionally practising a more horizontal leadership style, focusing on learning from others rather than elevating my own perspective.