Sylvia Schmelkes is a Sociologist and a Master in Educational Research and Development, both in Universidad Iberoamericana Mexico City. Throughout her career, she has authored over 400 publications covering various educational topics such as quality of education, adult education, values education, and intercultural education. Sylvia founded and led the Intercultural and Bilingual Education department at the Education Ministry in Mexico, and chaired the governing board of the OECD's Centre for Educational Research and Innovation. Schmelkes has received numerous prestigious accolades, and honorary degrees from universities in Mexico and Canada.