Claudia Sheinbaum’s election as Mexico’s first female president in 2024 is a landmark event in the nation’s history. She was born on June 24, 1962, and raised in Mexico City to a family of scientists. Sheinbaum has a robust academic background, holding a PhD in energy engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Her early career included significant environmental and energy research contributions, notably with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
Her political career began during her student years at UNAM, where she was active in the University Student Council. She became the Secretary of the Environment for Mexico City (2000-2006), appointed by then-Mayor Andrés Manuel López Obrador. In this role, she introduced the Metrobús system and oversaw major infrastructure projects. Sheinbaum also served as the Mayor of Tlalpan and subsequently as the Head of Government of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023, where she implemented various social and environmental reforms.
Sheinbaum’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, with around 60% of the vote, signifies a continuation of López Obrador’s policies, emphasizing social justice, economic reform, and environmental sustainability. Her presidency not only breaks the gender barrier but also brings a scientific and progressive perspective to Mexico’s leadership.
As president, Sheinbaum is expected to focus on expanding social programs, combating corruption, and enhancing environmental policies. Her leadership represents a significant shift towards gender equality and scientific governance in Mexico, promising a blend of academic rigor and progressive politics in addressing the nation’s challenges.