WDN Member Profile: Lucila García

Meet Lucila Garcia, a dedicated WDN member from Argentina who was first introduced to the Network in 2015, when she attended WDN's Women's Leadership School. This program aimed to equip women with the necessary skills and confidence to actively engage in public life and maximize opportunities for effective leadership. Leveraging her extensive expertise in international affairs and a longstanding career in government, Garcia currently provides counsel to a senator in the province of Buenos Aires and a local deputy in Santa Fe. WDN Argentina has played an instrumental role in Garcia's professional growth.

Deeply passionate about WDN's work in Argentina, Garcia fervently believes in empowering women in politics by equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge for success. As a trainer for WDN Argentina, Garcia enjoys using WDN's Ask A Woman To Run Toolkit to train women and is also an advisor to the chapter. In her political party, Garcia actively encourages fellow women to engage with WDN, recognizing WDN Argentina's transformative role in influencing women's political participation.

The city of Santa Fe appointed Garcia as the Head of the Agency of International Affairs in 2023. Despite her notable qualifications, she acknowledges the challenges of navigating a male-dominated space. Garcia, proficient in four languages and with extensive experience in campaigning and governance, emphasizes that even with these credentials, the path to power remains arduous for women. She underscores the vital role of WDN in fostering resilient communities and provinces, ultimately fortifying democracy in her home country.

One of the most valuable aspects of WDN for Garcia is the network of like-minded women facing similar obstacles. Through meaningful connections with fellow members, she finds support and camaraderie to sustain her through her journey. Lucila Garcia's message to fellow WDN members is powerful-empowering women in public and civic life will reshape the world and redefine democracies. With more women in decision-making positions, substantial transformations are inevitable.

Reflecting on her growth within WDN, Garcia acknowledges the pivotal role it played in her personal and professional development. From a young woman with strong convictions, to a woman with the skills and knowledge to pursue leadership positions, she attests, "I'm a woman with strong thoughts, and WDN helped me to grow over the years […] it was always my place where I could express myself how I wanted, and it helped me to grow in my career professionally and in politics."