Science, Sustainability, and Sunscreen: Meet an AWEsome Alumni who’s Mastered all Three
Article by Allie Dalola, intern with the U.S. Department of State, currently studying Business Administration and Economics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel-Hill.
[Barcelona, March 2023] Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) alumni Judit Camargo is harnessing the power of science and sustainability through her business Roka Furadada. Her background in pharmaceutical research and business development coupled with her passion for the environment led her to launch her company in 2019, which focuses on protecting sunscreen wearers in Spain while also protecting the planet.
Before starting Roka Furadada and participating in AWE, a U.S. Department of State exchange program aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs around the globe, Camargo worked in biomedical research. A few years in, she decided to go back to school and pursue postgraduate degrees in public health from the University of Barcelona and business certifications from IESE Business School. After graduation, her interests drew her to research and product development opportunities at pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies. Soon, her role transitioned from lab work to a focus on business development.
While working in the corporate world, Carmargo became an advocate for climate justice and used her spare time to push for environmental change. This passion eventually led her to make a massive career leap and start her own sustainable business.
“Sometimes being an activist isn’t enough,” Camargo said. “With my expertise in cosmetics and chemicals, I felt that running my own business could be the way to have a real impact and change things.”