I’m Adriana Maria Penuela-Useche, a climapreneur based in Berkeley, California.

My life thesis revolves around the balance between self and community through sustainable development in its entirety. On one hand, living a values-driven life, leveraging strengths based on a purpose-driven, strong values system, is essential for a path towards happiness—my definition of success. On the other hand, a robust values system presents opportunities for real systemic change and sustainability to be enacted for the environment, society, and economic development.

Therefore, my theory of change is rooted in exploring how I can empower systemic change while challenging the status quo on sustainability practices, aiding the development of global communities. I strongly advocate for stakeholder capitalism and impact investment as potent tools that require genuine support alongside true diversity, equity, and inclusion. I believe that by creating spaces where everyone is educated equally, provided with tools and opportunities, we can all thrive. I also believe that the innovation continuum in the Solow economic growth model can be extended to its limits when we leverage our intersectionalities and bring our complete selves to our endeavors.

I advocate for systems thinking, innovation, investment, design thinking, and collaboration to discover and redefine futures that rectify the past, alter narratives, and innovate for sustainable environmental, social, and economic growth.

Daniel Goleman's leadership styles describe me as a mix of Visionary and Democratic leader. This means I set the path and vision while prioritizing collaboration and inclusion.

This evaluation aligns with the idea of bringing my full intersectionality to my work and life, always mindful of my defining principles and values as a leader. These principles are shaped by lived experiences and include questioning the status quo, going beyond oneself, being a perpetual student, and leading with confidence but without arrogance.

I employ curiosity and bravery while challenging the status quo, lead with heart and purpose, encouraging others to surpass themselves. I often ideate and collaborate with a human-centered mindset, fostering community wherever I go. Embracing a "Student Always" mentality, I value hope and humility, always learning with a growth mindset and envisioning new possibilities. Lastly, I aim to instill confidence without arrogance, expressing love in my leadership style.

Although our time on Earth may seem long, I perceive it as limitless compared to the universe's age. Thus, challenging the status quo on how we live is crucial. Life offers a chance for rational beings to positively impact Earth, societies, and economies—to regenerate nature, leave a net positive impact, and foster a world of community and genuine human bonds.

Death, to me, is an inscrutable threshold that instills urgency yet provides others with the chance to carry on our progress.

My beliefs stem from early exposure to Catholic value ethics, where happiness and doing good for all are paramount. I reject the utilitarian GDP-centric measure of success, advocating for a balanced approach that integrates human and environmental factors, bridging gaps between rich and poor.

We exist on Earth to explore, envision possibilities, and correct historical wrongs. Injustice stifles human potential, while inclusion fosters growth. Education fuels opportunity and mobility, making entrepreneurship and innovation catalysts for justice and peace.

I view work as a means to fulfill my purpose and pursue happiness. It provides a platform to utilize my skills, passions, and ideas for a positive impact on the environment, society, and economy. Central to my approach is self-reflection, fostering a sense of purpose and responsibility in others, echoing Aristotle's notion of a 'good' effect in the community.

For me, meaningful work entails personal growth and societal value, where 'value' signifies societal appreciation for economic development and meeting basic human needs. This aligns with my values of purpose, love, hope, bravery, and curiosity.

Sustainable work requires meeting basic needs to participate actively in society. Earning a fair salary is essential, but excessive wealth accumulation exacerbates inequality.