Maria is a Brazilian environmental and energy lawyer working at the intersection of climate justice, climate diplomacy, human rights, and the rule of law. She holds an LL.M. from the London School of Economics and Political Science and a law degree from the University of São Paulo.

Before joining ILP, Maria built a substantial record in the third sector. She founded women's collectives advancing race and gender equality, and has provided pro bono legal advice in legal clinics, working directly with individuals and communities on the issues affecting them. Across her work in human rights, climate justice, climate diplomacy, and gender equity, she has consistently used the law as a practical tool for those who need it most. Her academic work has focused on procedural environmental rights in investment arbitration, examining how affected communities can secure a voice in disputes that shape their environment and livelihoods.

Maria is committed to a career in international law that keeps marginalised communities at its centre, drawing on both technical legal expertise and grassroots organising experience. She is fluent in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French.