Mariela Moreno “Sowing Energy, Harvesting Equality”

 

I was born in Ambato, Ecuador, and from a young age I showed an interest in nature, physics, and mathematics. It was this early passion for knowledge that led me to pursue a scientific career, although over time, life had an even more powerful path in store for me than I had imagined.

I decided to study Environmental Biotechnology Engineering at the Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo (ESPOCH), in Riobamba. There, I joined the Alternative Energy and Environment Group (GEAA), a multidisciplinary team focused on the research and development of sustainable solutions. They opened the door for me to start working in this line of research. My involvement with GEAA began with my internship and thesis work, which further sparked my enthusiasm for this area of scientific research and the social impact of sustainable environmental solutions.

After graduating, I received an invitation from the director of GEAA to join the team and work on research projects. It was during this time that my path in the energy field began to take shape. While working, I met physicists and biophysicists who inspired me to think big, due to the lack of research in the field of nuclear energy and radiation in the country. One of them, Mario, encouraged me to found WiN Ecuador (Women in Nuclear), an organization that highlights and promotes the work of women in the nuclear field.

I didn't have a direct academic background in nuclear energy and initially lacked knowledge about it, but the idea of creating something positive for women in this area was a challenge that immediately attracted me. So, I began the process of forming the leadership team. I felt it was important to involve the country’s regulatory body at the time, SCAN (Undersecretariat for Nuclear Control and Applications), and decided to travel to Quito to present my proposal. After sharing my idea, I found the support of Naty, and at that moment, I believed it wise for her to take the initial leadership due to her professional background and experience in the field. Gradually, the leadership team came together and, with effort, we registered WiN Ecuador as a scientific network with SENESCYT (Undersecretariat of Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation) to begin the long but rewarding journey of expansion, experience, and challenges.

As the organization grew in membership, I also grew professionally. I decided to pursue a dual master’s degree abroad: one in Environmental Audit Management and the other in Alternative Energies. Growing professionally, intellectually, and personally helped me overcome my fear of engaging with people in the nuclear and radiation energy field. It led me to connect with members of other WiN chapters worldwide, which strengthened the network and helped position Ecuador on both national and international platforms.

Later assuming the presidency of WiN Ecuador was a turning point for me. I didn’t see myself as a leader, but my conviction, teamwork, and love for the cause proved that I had all the necessary qualities to guide the organization and learn together in the process. Under my leadership, WiN Ecuador has grown in membership, participated in national and international conferences, and established connections with regulatory bodies and national and international organizations.

I believe one of the biggest challenges has been consolidating institutional collaboration in the country and ensuring that women’s voices in energy—especially in the nuclear and radiation sector—are heard. Currently, I focus particularly on recent female graduates with no experience, encouraging them to develop projects in this field in the country, generate research, create collaboration links with other institutions, and open doors to this fascinating world. All these challenges have not been obstacles, but rather a driving force to continue building a more equitable community with equal opportunities for women with or without experience in the nuclear and radiation sector.

“I never imagined I could lead a national network until I did.”

WiN taught me to overcome my fear of public speaking, to connect with people from all over the world, and most importantly, to inspire other young women to take chances, get involved, and believe in themselves and their work.

Today, I look back and recognize the path I've traveled with pride and humility. It has been a journey full of learning, courage, growth, and above all, commitment. My story is proof that no matter what you studied or what field you're in, if you’re eager to learn and take on new challenges with passion, vision, and hard work, it’s possible. Every change you want to see in the world starts with you, and there’s no better way to do it than with the support and companionship of women like you who are looking for their place in the world and trying to change it in their own way. Never forget to always be respectful, kind, and empathetic to others.