In a Nutshell

Known as the explorer with the cute accent! A self-proclaimed adventurer ever since visiting Base camp Everest alone during my early 30s in 2005 (don't do the math!). As an export from Peru, I have been blessed with a life of many ups and downs which has allowed me to develop an incredible sense of resilience, strength and compassion. I am a stubborn, fiery, determined South-American gal, passionate about my beliefs and with a deeply compassionate heart that is called to serve many in need. I believe in all the good this world can be! I am a devout sushi lover (took myself to Japan just to eat the best sushi in the world), I love music (former DJ) and am a true geek at heart (Work related and on the personal side). I love sports (the only way to calm down my overly energetic self) and consider myself very privileged to have a beautiful family. I am Always ready to help (that Girl Scout's background!) and I am Inspired to become a full time Social Entrepreneur during my life’s next chapter.

The Formal Version

In October 2005, Silvia ventured to Base Camp Mt. Everest along with a Nepalese guide and porter. She went in search of spiritual healing. Her short but successful journey connected her in a profound way to the Himalayas and the local children she met along the way became her Shooting Stars! So deeply moved by the power of this land she made a promise to come back one day and climb Sagarmatha (Mount Everest). Then the vision came to her that she needed to return in an organized expedition and with the goal of raising awareness about Women and children in need. Silvia has committed herself to climbing the 7 summits. She has already summited Kilimanjaro and Elbrus. She'll be heading this upcoming June to climb Denali and in December will be climbing Aconcagua .

In April 2009, Silvia visited the DRC Congo to support the delivery of a program to assist the reintegration of former Child soldiers. During that visit, Silvia was horrified to witness the ongoing atrocities being endured by women and children. After her return she focused on raising funds to support the trauma healing programs developed by VDAY and her partner Elayne Kalila Doughty founder of the Queens of Transformation.

In October 2011 Silvia and Georgina met at a VDAY event, by then, Silvia was already planning a 2013 Mt. Everest expedition; Silvia and Georgina recognized each other as kindred souls and honoring the serendipity for how they met - together began planning the official 2013 Everest Expedition.

Silvia currently works as the Head of Financial Systems at eBay. As a seasoned global finance executive she has had a diverse array of positions and spent four years living in Bern and Berlin. As a social entrepreneur, Silvia is the Treasurer and co-founder of The Gracias Foundation. This was originally a small Peruvian based non profit started by Silvia's Mother which supported local communities in the Peruvian Andes. With vision and determination Silvia and the other Board of Directors have now formed The Gracias Foundation as US based non-profit that seeks to empower and improve the lives of women and children by supporting local projects in some of the poorest, most vulnerable areas of the world.

Silvia holds a BA from Millersville University of Pennsylvania and was a recipient of the IIE/Fulbright scholarship for her studies.