Maria Emilia Firpo Reggio is the Head of Department of Cooperation and Programs and Projects Management of the National Directorate of Gender Policies in Uruguay’s Ministry of the Interior. She is responsible for the promotion, design, coordination and management of international cooperation programs and inter-institutional projects related to prevention and intervention of the diverse manifestations of gender based violence and inequalities. She has also been involved in research and university extension projects aimed at the conditions of social inclusion of the migrant population that arrives in Uruguay in conditions of vulnerability. Maria Emilia has a degree in Social Anthropology from the University of the Republic of Uruguay. Through the Humphrey Fellowship, she aims to improve her communication, negotiation, and networking skills, which will enhance her leadership capacity. She is deeply committed to designing and managing development projects that are rooted in evidence-based public policies.