Catarina Ferreira is a Master’s student in International and Development Studies at the Geneva Graduate Institute, with a dedication to evidence-based approaches in addressing complex social issues. Previously, as a Research Fellow at the Centre for Public Administration and Public Policies at the University of Lisbon, Catarina gained a profound appreciation for the role of data and research in understanding societal challenges and developing targeted solutions. Her work reinforced her conviction that rigorous, data-driven insights are essential for effective policymaking.
With a background as a social worker at the Western Lisbon Hospital, Catarina has hands-on experience supporting vulnerable populations, including migrant communities, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals with mental health diseases. In this role, she facilitated access to critical health and social services, provided psychosocial support, and advocated for equitable treatment. This experience underscored her commitment to inclusive decision-making, which accurately reflects the realities of diverse communities.
Catarina speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish, as well as basic French and Italian.