Veronica leads ADB’s gender program for the People’s Republic of China and Mongolia. She manages regional and country-level technical assistance on gender equality and social inclusion and works with loan processing teams ensuring that gender equality is an integral part of ADB operations. Veronica has authored various publications on gender and labor force dynamics in East Asia, gender and the energy transition, and gender-based violence in Mongolia. She has also written on the impact of economic crises on vulnerable populations in South-East Asia.

Dr. Mary Ellsberg is the Founding Director of the Global Women's Institute at George Washington University. Dr. Ellsberg has more than 30 years of experience in international research and programs on gender and development. Before joining the University in August 2012, Dr. Ellsberg served as vice president for research and programs at the International Center for Research on Women. Dr. Ellsberg’s deep connection to global gender issues stems not only from her academic work but also from living in Nicaragua for nearly 20 years leading public health and women’s rights advocacy.