10 Things You Didn’t Know About Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico's First Female President

Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s new and first female President, is making waves not just in Mexico but around the world. Breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, she’s not just a politician but a scientist, environmentalist, and advocate for women’s rights.

As the first woman elected to lead the vibrant and diverse American country, Sheinbaum is a beacon of inspiration. She’s a powerhouse of talent, intelligence, and determination. Here are ten fascinating things you might not know about this trailblazing leader transforming the democratic republic and setting new standards in governance.

A Scientific Powerhouse: Claudia Sheinbaum was deeply rooted in science before she dived into politics. She earned her Ph.D. in Energy Engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and even worked with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. Her academic background sets her apart from many politicians.

Environmental Champion: Sheinbaum is a relentless advocate for the environment. She focused on sustainable development and energy efficiency as an engineer and researcher. Her work has significantly influenced her policies as a politician, pushing for greener urban spaces and public transportation.

First Woman Elected to Lead Mexico and Mexico City: In 2018, Sheinbaum made history by becoming the first woman elected as the Head of Government of Mexico City, Mexico's capital and one of the largest cities in the world. This milestone marked a significant step forward for women in Mexican politics.

A Unwavering Advocate for Women's Rights: Sheinbaum has been a vocal advocate for gender equality and women's rights throughout her career. She has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce gender-based violence and support women's economic empowerment throughout her career.

A Proud Jewish Heritage: The politician is also known for her Jewish heritage, a unique aspect of predominantly Catholic Mexico. Although she is a daughter of Jews who fled Eastern Europe during the Holocaust, she was raised somewhat removed from the Jewish traditions. However, she takes pride in her background and has spoken about the importance of diversity and inclusion in society.

Innovative Urban Reformer: Under her leadership, Mexico City has seen significant reforms aimed at improving urban living. Sheinbaum has focused on enhancing public transportation, reducing air pollution, and promoting sustainable housing projects. Her administration launched the Cablebús, an aerial cable car system to help ease transportation in mountainous areas.

A Hands-On Leader: The COVID-19 pandemic tested leaders worldwide, and Sheinbaum rose to the challenge. She implemented strict health measures, expanded hospital capacity, and introduced economic support programs to help those affected by the pandemic. As Mexico City's then-mayor, the leader consistently wore a face mask and urged others to do the same, in stark contrast to President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who refused to wear a mask even after contracting the virus, contributing to Mexico suffering the fifth-worst COVID-19 death toll globally.

Tattoo Lover: The politician has captured public interest for her political career and the small tattoos she bears on her back. Through her Instagram account, she revealed the symbolism behind each one, giving her followers a deeper insight into her life and personal beliefs. The small flower near her ankle and three butterflies in black, green, and lilac on her right shoulder hold a special significance, representing her and her two children and symbolizing their unity and the deep bond of love and connection they share as a family.

A Voice for the Marginalized: Sheinbaum has consistently championed the rights of marginalized communities. She has worked on improving living conditions in underprivileged areas of Mexico City, providing better access to healthcare, education, and essential services.

Family-Oriented: Sheinbaum balances her political career with family life. She is a proud mother and maintains close ties with her family. Her ability to juggle professional and personal responsibilities inspires many working women.

Claudia Sheinbaum's journey stands as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of passion, dedication, and resilience. As she continues to shatter barriers and redefine leadership, her presidency promises significant change for the country. Only time will reveal the full extent of her impact and the legacy she will leave behind.