Applied Qualitative Research. As a social anthropologist with a graduate degree in public administration and expertise in MEAL (Evaluation and Learning), I have applied qualitative methods and tools (literature reviews, interviews, ethnographic field research, focus groups, participatory methods) and semi-quantitative research (surveys and polls) into practical needs assessments, recommendations, and guidance to inform policies and programs of national NGOs, governments and international agencies. For further details, please, read my article on the benefits of implementing ethnographic fieldwork and anthropological approach to human rights policy advocacy, needs assessments, and evaluations. If you are interested in understanding the reasons behind my decision to enhance my qualitative research skills with MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), I invite you to read this article.
Intersectional Feminist Analysis. In its extremely summarized definition, this framework addresses the intersecting forms of oppression experienced by marginalized individuals. The concept was originally developed by Black Feminism scholars, who sought to address the limitations of traditional feminist and anti-racist theories in explaining the unique challenges faced by Black women. Since then, it has helped shed light on the previously overlooked reality that certain individuals and social groups face oppression due to their simultaneous membership in multiple marginalized social categories and circumstances. These include their race, class, gender, sexual orientation, immigration status, disability, religion, etc. These social categories intersect and overlap in complex ways within each historical, social, and cultural context, and understanding and responding to this oppression requires recognizing the interconnections between these social categories, rather than viewing each category in isolation. Therefore, qualitative research plays a crucial role in comprehending the complexities of these intersections.
Latin American Critical & Decolonial Theories. Through my work and research, I make a modest contribution to Latin American critical theory and to more egalitarian societies that uphold the rights of children, women, LGTBQ+ individuals, people on the move, and other marginalized groups in our region. This theoretical framework provides us with tools to critically analyze current Latin American situations labeled as “humanitarian emergencies” or “political/human rights crises” by historicizing them through intersectional feminist analysis, critical geopolitics theory, and other critical theories. Taking the example of regional migration policies, conceptualizing migration from the region as an “emergency” or “humanitarian crisis” that can be resolved through isolated, narrowly defined interventions or policies obscures the reality that it is a constant and structural phenomenon. In addition, because Latin American theory is concerned with practical solutions, by embracing critical Latin American perspectives, we can explore alternative political solutions that prioritize social justice and human rights for individuals on the move throughout the region.
Policy Advisor Consultant, Refugee & Migrant Protection, Center for Democracy in the Americas (CDA)
Geographical Assessment Consultant for Latin America, International Refugee Assistance Project
Consultant for the Study of Shelters for Survivors of GBV (gender-based violence) for UNICEF Mozambique
Consultant on Alternative Care for Unaccompanied and Separated Migrant and Refugee Children (UASC), RELAF, Mexico.
Monitoring & Evaluation Consultant, End Violence Lab, University of Edinburgh
Youth Suicide Prevention Researcher (intern), UNICEF Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan