Second chances

In 2023, I participated in the elections for Vice President of IABSE for the first time. I didn’t make it that time, but this year, I threw in my hat for the second time as one of 8 candidates for 4 spots – and now I got elected.

After my last run, I identified what I could do better:

• Strategic networking: Building stronger ties with my national group in Ecuador is essential for securing support during elections. We reinstated our national group in 2024, and I am much better embedded nationally (and regionally) now.
• Personal growth within the organization: I noticed the need for more involvement and growth (and visibility, more than anything) within IABSE before considering another shot at the vice president role, and have been volunteering more to contribute.
• Active participation: Committing to showing up at more events to boost visibility within the organization. I had not been traveling much during and after maternity leave, and then because of the pandemic, and resumed travel in 2024.
• National group engagement: Stressing the importance of reaching out to national groups to ensure active participation and support during campaigns. I think I managed to network better with my national and neighboring countries’ national groups to get their support, and actively reached out to delegates who would be voting to let them know about my plans and ideas.

Additionally, I also focused this time more on my short pitch – I thought through ways in which my profile is different from others (despite the weakness of being the youngest and least experienced candidate) and how I can contribute uniquely. I practiced more, and this election session was held in person (with hybrid participation for those not being able to travel) instead of fully online, which also changed the dynamic.