MDP Student Spotlight: Andres Fernando Martinez Cadena

The Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) is a two-year graduate program that trains practitioners to understand, design, and manage integrated approaches to sustainable development challenges. The program equips students with critical knowledge, practical skills, and the mindset needed to drive change in both developing and developed societies.

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) is pleased to spotlight Andres Fernando Martinez Cadena, a Leopold Bachmann Foundation (LBF) Scholar, pursuing his Master’s in Development Practice at the University of Los Andes in Colombia. We asked Andres five questions about his journey and his experience with the Global MDP Association.

Which SDG are you most passionate about?

SDG 1: No Poverty is the most inspiring, because by achieving this goal, we could drive progress in the other SDGs. Ending poverty would trigger a positive chain reaction, allowing many people to access quality education and decent public services. We would be able to reduce violence, foster a culture of sustainable development, and strengthen commitment to institutions and political participation in order to prevent setbacks in respect for and access to human rights.

What is the best part about working on your MDP degree program?

The classes and the materials with which they are carried out.

What is something that you are proud to have accomplished while working on your current MDP degree program?

I feel proud to connect with people from different regions of the country who not only reflect on how to build a fairer and more responsible country with our socio-ecosystem, but also share how they have been doing so through their professional experience. On the other hand, I am also proud that my contributions are seen as a point of reference.

How is the Leopold Bachmann Foundation helping you advance your career and aspirations?

Thanks to the Leopold Bachmann Foundation, I have the opportunity to connect with outstanding professionals and leading experts in a master’s program that trains us to become the best managers in the practice of sustainable development in our country.

What is a fun fact about you? Something others might not know?

A fun fact about me is that not many people know I enjoy playing metal songs on my guitar to relax and clear my mind when I need to solve a problem or work on a proposal.

Andres’s journey reflects how the MDP program empowers students to blend innovation, tradition, and personal passion in the pursuit of sustainable development. Learn more about the MDP Program and read our other MDP Student Spotlights.