Esmeralda Zambrano Bernardi (she/they) is focusing her studies in anatomical sciences and environmental studies. Born and partly raised in Los Angeles, Esmeralda has embraced her multicultural background by living in Scotland and Mexico, significantly broadening her academic and professional horizons.
Esmeralda began her advocacy journey with GUTS UK and CURE EB, helping raise funds, participating in organizational events, and giving platforms to individuals who wish to share their journeys and stories. Keen on advocacy and eager to learn more, Esmeralda enrolled in a community college in Los Angeles, where she became a fellow researcher within the UCLA/ELAC SeaGrant Pathways into Inclusive Ocean Research Training (now PIER) program. In this role, she has had the privilege of collaborating with peer members, graduate students, and faculty members. She has participated in various fieldwork and community initiatives like California Coastal Cleanup, Heal the Bay MPA Watch, vessel-related research, and LA Surfrider.
In her spare time, Esmeralda enjoys the physical challenge of rugby, relishing the thrill of both tackling and being tackled. She likes to spend her time outdoors hiking with her dog, trying different donuts, playing video games, and building LEGO projects.
Esmeralda’s motivation stems from witnessing systemic inequities that impact underprivileged communities and minorities in the United States. While her research interests lie at the intersection of medical sciences, healthcare, and environmental science, Esmeralda holds social advocacy close to her heart. She aims to use her platform in the program to gain deeper insights, build community, contribute to research, and broaden inclusivity and accessibility.