In a historic victory, Claudia Sheinbaum has won the Mexican presidential election by a landslide, becoming the first woman to hold the country’s highest office. This significant event marks a new era in Mexican politics.
Who Is Claudia Sheinbaum?
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo was born in Mexico City on June 24, 1962. She comes from a family deeply rooted in science. Her father, Carlos Sheinbaum, is a chemist, and her mother, Annie Pardo, is a biologist. Both her parents were active in the Mexican student movement of 1968, a critical period in the country’s history.
Sheinbaum’s early education took place at the College of Sciences and Humanities (CCH), Plantel Sur. She continued her studies at the Faculty of Science at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where she earned a degree in Physics in 1989. Her academic journey didn’t stop there; she pursued a master’s in Energy Engineering from UNAM.
What Are Her Academic Achievements?
In 1995, Claudia Sheinbaum became the first woman to enter and complete a doctorate at the UNAM Faculty of Engineering. Her doctoral thesis focused on the energy trends and perspectives in residential areas of Mexico. This work showcased her expertise in the country’s energy sector.
That same year, Sheinbaum moved to California on a UNAM scholarship. She spent four years at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, furthering her research. Simultaneously, she joined the academic staff of the Engineering Institute.
How Did She Start Her Public Service Career?
Sheinbaum’s public service journey began in 2000 when she became the Secretary of the Environment for the Federal District. In 2006, she left her position to join Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s presidential campaign as his spokesperson. Later, she served as the Secretary of Defense of the National Heritage under Obrador’s leadership.
Her commitment to public service was evident when she coordinated the Movement in Defense of Petroleum. She led the formation of protest brigades known as “Adelitas,” advocating for more time for legislation and debate on energy reform.
What Are Her Political Milestones?
In 2015, Claudia Sheinbaum made history by becoming the first woman elected to lead the Tlalpan mayor’s office. Her political career continued to flourish. By July 2018, she broke another barrier as the first woman to become the Head of Government of Mexico City. She led the “Together We Will Make History” coalition, demonstrating her leadership skills and dedication to public service.
Who Is Her Husband?
Claudia Sheinbaum is married to Jesús María Tarriba Unger, a financial risk analyst. They tied the knot in November last year. The couple met in college and had been dating since 2016. Sheinbaum was previously married to Carlos Imaz Gispert, a politician and academic, from 1987 to 2016. They have a daughter, born in 1988, and Sheinbaum is also a stepmother to Imaz’s son from a previous marriage.
What Does This Victory Mean for Mexico?
Sheinbaum’s election as Mexico’s first female president is a groundbreaking achievement. It signifies a step forward in gender equality and brings hope for new policies and reforms. Her extensive background in science and politics positions her uniquely to address critical issues like climate change and energy reform.
Conclusion
Claudia Sheinbaum’s victory is a milestone in Mexican history. Her diverse background in science and politics, coupled with her commitment to public service, promises a new direction for the nation. As she takes on the role of president, the world watches with anticipation for the changes and progress she will bring to Mexico.
