Leona Isabella Verdadero

Leona Verdadero is a Programme Specialist at UNESCO working on sustainable digital transformation and policy innovation.

Leona Verdadero is a Programme Specialist at UNESCO working on sustainable digital transformation and policy innovation. She advances inclusive and rights-based approaches to data and AI governance, with a focus on multilingual access, energy-efficient AI ("greening AI"), ethical frameworks, and multilateral engagement. Her work explores how digital technologies and AI in particular can serve the millions who remain excluded not only by connectivity gaps but by the persistent dominance of a handful of languages in digital spaces. 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.