Priscilla Pecho Ricaldi was born in the highlands of Peru. She is a social psychologist, activist for women's rights and LGBTQI+ population and has a master's degree in psychology. She is part of the Psychology, Culture and Gender Research Group, within which she has developed qualitative, quantitative and mixed research on issues of violence, gender, LGBTQI+ population and intersectionality. Likewise, Priscilla has publications in academic journals related to symbolic violence, psychological well-being, feminist activism, among others, and has developed intervention projects related to issues of gender violence, sexual and reproductive rights, and comprehensive sexual education.

Currently, Priscilla is a university professor at the Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru. Previously, she has worked as a consultant for organizations such as the International Organization for Migration, Hivos, and the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Girls for Change: Empowering Youth Activism Toward Social Justice 

Priscilla held eight workshops for 20 youth activists from different geographical and ethnic backgrounds to provide them with the advocacy tools to participate and become leaders in their communities. Each workshop was led by a female leader of women’s empowerment organization and focused on security, political advocacy, public speaking, and leadership. At the end of the project, the participants brainstormed solutions to community issues such as gender violence, fake news, and social justice. As a result of the project, participants developed effective strategies in how to advocate politically, strengthen civil society organizations, and increase the security of human rights defenders. Some participants have even joined the Metropolitan Youth Participation Council of Lima and are pushing the inclusion of more female youth.

"[Participating in this space has been healing and has given me tools to continue my activism].” - Project Participant

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Priscilla was a participant in the IVLP Project A Global Moment in Time - Peace and Justice organized by the U.S. Department of State and Institute of International Education.

Priscilla's exchange experience led to the development of her IVLP Impact Award Project: "During my stay in Denver where we visit[ed] some local organizations, I had the opportunity to know how they were working to strengthen competences and abilities in young girls and women. It was inspiring to know how they are fighting for social justice in their own communities and how I can relate to those experiences."

U.S. Communities Visited

Los Angeles, CA; Washington, DC; Charleston, SC

Country: Peru

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