I’m Juliana Velloso—a Brazilian PhD economist, natural chef, gardener, mindfulness instructor, and environmental advocate.
As an economist, I’ve been working at Brazil’s Energy Research Office for 13 years, an institution that supports the Ministry of Energy in the research, development, and implementation of national energy plans, as well as in analyzing the country’s energy supply and demand.
I have a solid academic background:
- A degree in Economics from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ)
- A Master’s in Environment and Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- A PhD in Public Policy, Strategy, and Development from the Institute of Economics at UFRJ
- A postdoctoral degree in energy transition from the University of Minho, in Portugal
I’m a dedicated researcher, consultant, and professor, committed to accelerating the transition toward a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future. With extensive expertise in energy transition, climate change, and the circular economy, I work at the intersection of policy, research, and innovation to develop high-impact solutions.
In addition to my work in energy, I conduct global research on innovative sustainability strategies, identifying best practices across governments, the private sector, and civil society to drive meaningful change.
I've always had to balance work, motherhood, and academic life. It hasn’t always been easy, but it has helped me grow tremendously—both personally and professionally.
A Life Beyond Economics
Beyond policy and research, I nurture a deep passion for cooking healthy food, gardening, practicing yoga, and embracing mindfulness. I believe true sustainability begins with how we nourish ourselves and care for the Earth. That’s why I see no contradiction between my professional work and my personal passions—because, over time, those passions have also become part of my work.
My personal transformation began in 2006 when I removed meat from my diet. In 2010, I fully embraced plant-based nutrition. This path deepened in 2023 when I became a certified mindfulness instructor and began studying to become a natural chef. I’m also the founder of Vida Mais Verde (on Instagram @avidamaisverde), a project born from my desire to promote conscious eating, intentional living, and a deeper connection with nature.
Creating Change from the Inside Out
Under the Vida Mais Verde umbrella, I’ve written several e-books to support people on their journey to healthier, more sustainable lives. I offer an online workshop where I teach how to prepare plant-based meals and lead a mentorship program called “Transform the Way you Eat”, designed especially for women transitioning to mindful, plant-based living. I also develop personalized home garden plans to help others grow their own food and reconnect with the Earth.
What truly motivates me is seeing transformation happen in real people’s lives. When someone tells me they feel more energized, balanced, or connected to their food and the planet, I feel incredibly fulfilled.
In 2019, while serving as Head of Sustainability for the State Secretary for Environment and Sustainability of Rio de Janeiro (I was seconded for one year by my institution), I became disillusioned by how decisions were often politically motivated, not centered around people or the planet. That experience led me to shift my focus to where I could have the most impact—at the micro level, in my own home and community.
And so, I started walking my talk. In our apartment in Rio de Janeiro, we had a large urban garden where we harvested pumpkins, cassava, yams, tomatoes, okra, and more. We installed solar panels to generate renewable energy, implemented a worm composting system to turn organic waste into fertilizer, and adopted a more mindful and conscious way of living.
The Most Important Role of All
But above all, I believe my most important role is being a mother. I have two very special daughters who inspire me to become a better version of myself every single day. I hope to help build a better world for them—and to raise two strong, compassionate human beings who will care for this beautiful planet. That, I believe, is my most important task in life.
Embracing Change
In 2023, for family reasons, we moved from Brazil to Portugal. This move marked a major turning point in my life. Adapting to a new culture, building a new network, and restructuring my routine was challenging—but it also opened the door to personal growth. Meal planning and mindfulness helped me stay grounded. These experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and the quiet power of consistency.
I truly believe in the ripple effect of small changes. As an economist, I understand the need for large-scale, structural reform. But I also believe that institutions are run by people—and when people change, institutions can too. When individuals begin to care about self-healing and the health of the planet, the seeds of real transformation are planted.
That’s why my favorite quote is:
“Small changes lead to big transformations.”
It’s a mantra that reminds me that progress begins in our daily choices—what we eat, how we think, and how we care for ourselves and the world.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, I feel proud and deeply grateful for the path I’ve taken. Vida Mais Verde is more than a project—it’s a way of life, a movement that continues to evolve alongside me.
To anyone reading this: trust your journey. Let your values guide your steps. Real change starts from within—and when you change, the world changes too.
And I pause for a moment to realize: I’ve been able to do all of this.
And so can you.
If you wanna to meet my work, you can find me on:
Instagram - @avidamaisverde
Linkedin – (2) Juliana Velloso PhD | LinkedIn
Website - HOME | Vida Mais Verde
No hay comentarios.:
Publicar un comentario