“Women Leaders in Development” is the name of the Marca Chile initiative that aims to highlight the role and contributions of women in the country’s development. The eight women featured share their stories, which are marked by innovation, perseverance, and social impact.
From diverse fields and disciplines—ranging from space science to sustainability, technological innovation, well-being, and inclusion—these women are blazing a trail with projects that address global challenges, demonstrating how Chilean women’s talent is helping to transform industries, drive new ideas, and put the country on the global map.
From the United States, Agustina Mir, co-founder of Sortile, is developing artificial intelligence-based technology to optimize textile recycling and reduce the fashion industry’s environmental impact. Meanwhile, in the aerospace sector, Matilde Gaete has become the first Chilean female astronaut candidate and one of the leading advocates for democratizing access to space technology.
Creativity applied to well-being and inclusion is also a hallmark of this new generation of leaders. Beatriz Palma, founder of My Nipp, combines art, science, and technology to develop hyper-realistic external prostheses for women who have battled breast cancer. From Talca, Silvana Herrera promotes inclusive design solutions through a sensory headband that enhances the independence of people with visual impairments.
In the field of sustainability and environmental innovation, Camila Cortínez, founder of the NGO Te Protejo, has led the fight against animal testing in the cosmetics industry. Meanwhile, Valery Rodríguez, co-founder of Imeko, is developing technology to recycle cigarette butts and transform them into new reusable materials.
Science and technology with a social impact are also featured in the stories of Constanza Escobar, co-founder of Photio, who is working on solutions to reduce air pollution using nanotechnology, and Melania Sanhueza, founder of MÜUD, a platform that uses artificial intelligence to promote social-emotional well-being in educational communities.
These eight women represent a new generation of female leaders who, from Chile, are reshaping the future through innovation, science, and creativity. Their stories demonstrate how Chilean women’s talent not only makes a local impact but also helps put the country on the international stage.
Because from the very heart of the world, leaders emerge who are capable of transforming industries, blazing new trails, and inspiring new generations. Chile is a country of women.
