Our Experts

PlanetWise Development has brought together accomplished experts, possessing unparalleled knowledge and skills to craft bespoke solutions that meet our clients' unique needs.

Dr. Ingrid Sanchez-Tapia

Dr. Sanchez Tapia is PlanetWise Development CEO. She provides expert advice on education, climate, and gender to a wide range of organizations, including UN and government. Her experience includes leadership roles at UNICEF leading portfolios such as Girls' Education, Climate & Education, and Secondary Education. She has also spearheaded global initiatives in digital learning, STEM for girls, and green skills. Dr. Sanchez has led the design and implementation of education reforms and professional development initiatives for teachers in Latin America and MENA. She is a published author and has taught in the U.S.A, Colombia, Panama, and Chile. Dr. Sanchez-Tapia currently advises UNICEF on climate and education.

Dr. Alberto Begue

Dr. Begue is a seasoned sociologist, with 25 years of contributions to the fields of international development and humanitarian aid. He has impacted education systems, through strategic educational planning and inclusive education across 30 countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. His vast experience includes work in refugee camps and with NGOs, governments, and multilateral organizations. His experience includes working with Plan International USA and the Global Partnership for Education, and several UN and government agencies. Dr. Begue brings unparalleled expertise in understanding the challenges that Ministries of Education face in conflict-affected regions.

Rachel Cooper

Rachel Cooper is an education specialist with rich expertise in digital learning, adolescent skills, flexible educational pathways, and gender equality in education. Her extensive global experience spans development and humanitarian contexts, including pivotal roles at UNICEF and the World Bank. Currently based in Nairobi, Rachel advises UNICEF in Kenya on enhancing digital learning initiatives. Her previous work focused on education in emergencies, private sector engagement, and student assessment. Well regarded for providing strategic policy guidance, she excels in designing and implementing large-scale education programs while contributing valuable research and analysis to advance the international education field.

Catalina Buitrago

Catalina Buitrago is a gender and development expert, specializing in psychosocial strategies focused on gender and children in underserved communities and transitional justice settings. With over 15 years of experience, she has designed impactful qualitative research and led community intervention projects. Her work addresses gender-based violence, peacebuilding, and supports child victims of conflict in Colombia. As a menstrual health educator, Catalina collaborates with organizations like UNICEF in both emergency and development contexts. She has worked with UN Women and the Colombian Truth Commission. Co-editor of "Psychosocial Resources for Post-Conflict," she is dedicated to fostering community resilience and empowerment.

Dr. Nadia De Leon

Dr. Nadia De León is a sociocultural researcher known for her leadership in academia, government, and social entrepreneurship. She is the founding director of CIEDU and president of Praxia Educational Consultants. Her career spans roles at Stanford and Western Kentucky University, with a focus on applied research, teaching, and community development. Dr. De León advises various organizations, with expertise in educational evaluation and teacher education. She is also recognized for her work in gender equality and cultural diversity, earning fellowships at the Smithsonian Latino Center and Imagining America.

Sébastien Hine

Sébastien Hine is a dynamic education and international development expert with 12 years of experience in research, policy, and advocacy. Specializing in education in emergencies, gender, and system strengthening, he has worked with leading organizations like ODI, Save the Children, and UNESCO. Sébastien has also consulted for organizations such as UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report, UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning, INEE, Education International, Plan International, and the National Foundation for Education Research.