Melina Belinco, President, Women in Nuclear (WiN) Global
Leading with Purpose in Nuclear Energy
A Journey Shaped by Curiosity and Commitment
Melina Belinco, President, Women in Nuclear (WiN) Global
Melina Belinco's career in the nuclear energy sector reflects the power of curiosity, collaboration, and purpose-driven leadership. With over 18 years of experience, she now serves as President of Women in Nuclear (WiN) Global, a volunteer-based organization active in more than 140 countries. Her story—rooted in Argentina's pioneering nuclear tradition—offers valuable insights into how passion and persistence can redefine leadership in the energy innovation sector.
Growing up surrounded by discussions of nuclear science, Melina's path was influenced by early exposure through the National Atomic Energy Commission of Argentina (CNEA). Initially pursuing a degree in political science at the University of Buenos Aires, she sought hands-on experience to balance her academic theory. This led to a fellowship at CNEA—her first step into the world of nuclear energy. Over the years, her journey has taken her from academic lecturing to international policy work, including special assignments at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, and mentoring at the World Nuclear University (WNU) Summer Institute – where she had been a fellow more than a decade ago Each experience reinforced her conviction that science, diplomacy, and leadership must evolve in tandem to meet the world's energy and climate goals.
Argentina's Legacy: Innovation Through Energy
Argentina stands out in Latin America for its strategic and visionary investment in nuclear technology. As Melina explains, the country's 75-year nuclear history positions it as a regional leader—home to the first operational nuclear power plant and research reactor in Latin America. Nuclear energy has become a cornerstone of Argentina's foreign policy and scientific diplomacy, enabling its participation in global discussions on energy security, sustainability, and innovation.
The National Atomic Energy Commission, where Melina has spent a significant portion of her professional life, has played a pivotal role in developing expertise and research capacity throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Its influence extends beyond national borders, promoting technical collaboration, academic excellence, and responsible innovation—values that mirror Melina's own leadership philosophy.
Empowering Women and Youth Through WiN Global
At the heart of Melina's work lies her commitment to diversity, inclusion, and mentorship. Founded in Switzerland in 1992, in the wake of the Chernobyl accident, WiN Global began as a grassroots effort to raise public awareness about nuclear science and safety—particularly among women concerned about the environmental and health impacts. Today, as she builds on the foundation laid by her predecessors, Melina has guided the organization’s growth into a global movement that champions advocacy, communication, and leadership development across the energy sector.
WiN Global's initiatives—ranging from expert groups for the exchange of knowledge and experiences in various strategic areasto mentorship and leadership programs —are designed to equip women and young professionals with the tools, networks, and confidence to shape the future of energy. All these efforts made possible through the support of sponsors: Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, and NUVIA, and in collaboration with more than 20 partners, such as WiRE, IAEA, World Nuclear Association (WNA), Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA). Melina highlights that WiN's volunteer-based structure mirrors broader realities in the energy field: "It shows both the challenges and opportunities for women and underrepresented voices. Our mission is to turn those challenges into pathways for growth."
Her leadership reflects resilience and a deep understanding of systemic barriers; from gender bias to the undervaluing of social science perspectives in technical arenas. Through advocacy and example, including her close engagement with students at university, she continues to expand opportunities for future generations in both nuclear and renewable energy.
Leading with Purpose, Vision, and Humanity
Looking ahead, Melina's vision for WiN Global is clear: to strengthen leadership programs, develop new global initiatives with a focus on regional perspectives, and leave a lasting legacy of equality, innovation, and collaboration in the energy sector. She believes that leadership is defined not by hierarchy, but by values—particularly emotional intelligence, kindness, and the ability to unite people around shared goals—and by gestures: the spontaneous, human acts that reveal who we are and what we value. Melina embraces a leadership that begins with these gestures—quiet yet powerful acts of solidarity, listening, and shared purpose – that amplifies diversity through connection.
Beyond her professional life, Melina draws strength and inspiration from her family, friends, colleagues, and simple joys—such as karaoke nights, time spent outdoors, quiet moments of reflection, and quintessentially Argentine passions, like cheering for the national football team and her beloved Boca Juniors. She believes that sustaining personal energy and optimism is key to driving collective progress.
Melina's story serves as a reminder that the future of energy depends as much on people and purpose as it does on technology and policy. Her leadership embodies the spirit of transformation—one that champions inclusion, inspires collaboration, and powers the global transition toward a more sustainable and equitable energy future.
Article written by Lauretta Pearse
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