Leading with Purpose: Cláudia Pinto on Women’s Empowerment and Sustainable Development

Cláudia Pinto: A Global Leader in Philanthropy and Sustainability

Cláudia Pinto, a name synonymous with global philanthropy and sustainability, has dedicated over 25 years of her life to making a difference. Her journey began in the world of business consulting, where she worked across Europe, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. However, it was her passion for social entrepreneurship and philanthropy that truly defined her career. Today, as the Head of Philanthropy Advisory with the UAE Government and the founder of The Empowering Women platform, Pinto’s work focuses on empowering women and driving sustainable development worldwide.

A Passionate Journey of Empowerment and Service

Reflecting on her path, Cláudia Pinto shares that her journey has been one of deep fulfillment. “My journey began over 25 years ago, working as a business consultant across Europe, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East,” she recalls. “Along the way, I discovered a passion for social entrepreneurship and philanthropy, which led me to focus on empowering women and supporting sustainable development.”

Pinto’s career trajectory is a testament to the power of combining business acumen with a desire to create positive social change. Her work is not just about giving back but about building meaningful connections and fostering collaboration across communities and industries. “In my role as the Head of Philanthropy Advisory, I’ve learned that creating meaningful connections is at the heart of effective service,” she explains. “Service isn’t just about giving; it’s about creating lasting relationships that uplift and empower everyone involved.”

The Empowering Women Platform: A Catalyst for Change

Among her many accomplishments, Cláudia Pinto is perhaps best known as the founder of The Empowering Women platform. This initiative has gained significant recognition for its work in providing women with the tools, mentorship, and community support they need to overcome obstacles and thrive. “The inspiration behind The Empowering Women platform was the realization that women across the world, despite their diverse backgrounds, face similar challenges in terms of accessing opportunities and resources,” Pinto shares.

The platform’s mission is to create a global network of empowered women who can lead sustainable change in their communities. By combining philanthropy and social entrepreneurship, Pinto aims to tackle the root causes of inequality and provide women with the resources they need to succeed both personally and professionally. This platform is not just about empowerment but about creating a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.

Driving Sustainability in the UAE and Beyond

As the Head of Philanthropy and Sustainability Adviser to HH Sheikh Marwan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cláudia Pinto is deeply involved in several key projects that align with Dubai’s ambitious sustainability goals. “One of our primary focuses is on clean energy and sustainability initiatives that align with Dubai’s vision of becoming the best smart city by 2030 and 2050,” she explains.

Pinto’s work extends beyond the UAE, with projects that include community development initiatives in Uganda, where she supports orphaned children and empowers men and women to contribute to sustainable development. Through The Empowering Women platform, Pinto also collaborates on projects like “The Veiled Millionaire” and “Kitabu-Buk,” which aim to support orphans and women, furthering their impact on communities around the world.

The Evolving Role of Philanthropy in Global Sustainability

In today’s rapidly changing world, philanthropy has an increasingly critical role to play in addressing global sustainability challenges. For Cláudia Pinto, it’s about more than just funding projects. “Philanthropy has a critical role to play in addressing global sustainability challenges. It’s about fostering innovation, supporting systemic change, and bringing diverse stakeholders together to find solutions,” she asserts.

Pinto believes that the future of philanthropy lies in making long-term, impactful investments that address the root causes of problems rather than just the symptoms. This approach not only creates sustainable and resilient communities but also ensures that the impact of philanthropic efforts is felt for generations to come.

Recognition and Motivation

Cláudia Pinto’s contributions to philanthropy and sustainability have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including Business Lady of the Year 2024 and Excellence in Philanthropy 2023. However, for Pinto, these accolades are more than just personal achievements. “While I am deeply honored by these recognitions, I see them more as a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact we can have when we work together towards a common goal,” she reflects.

These awards serve as a constant reminder of the responsibility Pinto feels to continue pushing boundaries, innovating, and inspiring others to join the journey of making the world a better place. They motivate her to strive for excellence in everything she does, ensuring that her work continues to make a meaningful impact.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Cláudia Pinto has ambitious aspirations for The Empowering Women platform and her work in philanthropy and sustainability. “My aspirations are to see The Empowering Women platform expand its reach globally, touching more lives and creating more leaders who can drive change in their communities,” she shares.

Cláudia Pinto is committed to building the happiest city in the world through a comprehensive strategy that merges economic growth, environmental responsibility, and the overall well-being of its citizens. As an international partner for Solfut Middle East, she collaborates with Dr. Adelino Cunha, a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience and the founder of “I Have the Power.” Together, they are implementing a powerful and integrated system designed to train individuals for success. This initiative aims to create an environment where people can flourish both personally and professionally, ultimately contributing to a happier and more prosperous society.

A quote that resonates deeply with Cláudia is, “In the world of innovation and creativity, there are no boundaries or limits,” by Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Pinto’s ultimate goal is to leave a legacy of empowerment and sustainability that will benefit future generations. She hopes to continue developing partnerships that support Dubai’s vision and contribute to a more sustainable future for the UAE and the world. For aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs, her message is simple yet powerful: “Believe in yourself and your ability to make a difference. The world needs your unique talents and perspectives, so don’t be afraid to step up and lead with courage and compassion.”

Cláudia Pinto’s journey is an inspiring example of how one person’s passion for social change can lead to a global movement. Through her work, she continues to empower others, foster sustainable development, and create a lasting impact on the world.

Click here to check her Instagram