Her Story
About Ana
Ana Luisa Sosa is an International Development and Sustainability Consultant based in Alexandria, Virginia, with more than 10 years of experience advancing sustainable development, climate action, and institutional accountability across international and cross-sector environments. She currently works as a freelance consultant following nearly nine years with a nonprofit organization, where she managed a World Bank Group-funded quality assurance and certification program for off-grid solar products designed to expand energy access in underserved communities across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Her expertise includes sustainability standards, environmental and social safeguards, ESG, climate finance, governance, and development finance.
Earlier in her career, Ana spent more than three years as a Junior Analyst at CAF, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, where she initially supported social development initiatives before transitioning to the Environment and Climate Change division. In that role, she contributed to renewable energy, conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability projects while focusing on environmental, social, and economic safeguards. Her career has been defined by a commitment to coordinating across governments, financial institutions, private-sector organizations, and communities to translate sustainability goals into meaningful, measurable results.
Ana earned a Master of Science in Sustainability Management from American University’s Kogod School of Business after completing a bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Ave Maria University in Florida. Born and raised in Venezuela, she pursued her education and professional development in the United States, drawing on her experiences to deepen her commitment to stability, equity, and sustainable progress. She attributes her professional journey to a strong desire to help improve people’s circumstances and believes lasting progress depends on collaboration, ethical governance, and sustainable development initiatives that bring public and private sectors together to create positive, long-term change.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my unwavering belief in doing good for others, which I consider the most meaningful path forward. I am deeply empathetic and guided by a servant’s heart, and I strive to consistently do what is right while supporting, encouraging, and helping those around me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to approach every situation with the best intentions, prioritize building trust, and remain committed to supporting and uplifting others. I have learned that integrity, empathy, and collaboration are essential to long-term professional success and to building meaningful, lasting relationships in the workplace.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to believe in themselves and remain committed to their calling, especially when working in a traditionally male-dominated field. Be authentic in your actions, demonstrate your value through confidence, professionalism, and meaningful contributions, and never underestimate the impact of your voice and expertise. Most importantly, remain resilient, persevere through challenges, and stay focused on your goals.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges I have faced has been relocating from Venezuela to the United States to pursue higher education and earn my degree. Leaving behind the political instability and lack of safety in my home country, I sought the security and opportunities available in the United States. Through determination and resilience, I have transformed this significant challenge into an opportunity for personal and professional growth as I work toward completing my master’s degree in International Development and Sustainability at American University’s School of Business.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, honesty, safety, and security. I am committed to upholding strong ethical principles, fostering trust, and maintaining high standards in everything I do. I am also passionate about helping others improve their circumstances and creating positive, lasting change through compassionate support and effective solutions.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.