Leona Verdadero

Leona Verdadero

Leona Verdadero is a Programme Specialist at UNESCO working on sustainable digital transformation and policy innovation. She works on initiatives to advance inclusive and rights-based approaches to data and AI governance, with a focus on energy-efficient AI (“greening AI”) solutions, ethical frameworks, and multilateral engagement. Named one of the “100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics” in 2024, Leona brings experience from UNDP, the World Bank, and OECD, and holds degrees from Columbia University and NYU Tandon School of Engineering.

At UNESCO, she leads the development of practical tools and capacity-building programs that support governments, particularly across Africa, Latin America, and Asia, in navigating the opportunities and risks of digital transformation. Her work spans the design of data governance frameworks, multilingual AI policy resources, and cross-sectoral partnerships with a range of international and intergovernmental organizations.

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  • Organization
    UNESCO
  • Profession
    Programme Specialist
Related sessions
AI for Good Global Summit
In person
8 July 2026
12:30 - 13:30
EST - New York
CST - Beijing
PST - Los Angeles
AWST - Perth, Australia
AI for Good Global Summit
In person
7 July 2026
09:00 - 12:15
EST - New York
CST - Beijing
PST - Los Angeles
AWST - Perth, Australia

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