Renata Col

Biography

Renata Collado is a Mexican photographer, philanthropist, and passionate environmentalist. Her life and career have been centered on high-impact projects, climate-tech companies, and social and sustainability causes. She is a voice and an agent for animals and the environment, an activist dedicated to philanthropy in all its forms.

Tell us, what has your professional path been like?

I started as a photojournalist, using photography to highlight urgent issues like climate change and to give a voice to marginalized communities. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to live in Australia, the United States, and Namibia, where I worked extensively with wildlife and local communities, focusing on education. Traveling and living in different countries has allowed me to delve into different cultures and ways of thinking, which has expanded my vision and understanding of the world, driving my desire to have a positive impact on the planet through its protection and care.

What was the turning point that led you from being a photojournalist to dedicating yourself to philanthropy (focused on social and environmental issues)?

I don't know if I could pinpoint an exact moment in my career, but I knew my whole life that this was my calling. However, having a camera in my hand and the incredible luck of traveling the world, visiting the most remote places, I had the opportunity to see firsthand communities suffering from a lack of resources and animals struggling to survive. These experiences impacted me deeply. Seeing these realities made me realize that documenting them was not enough; I needed to do more. I decided that philanthropy would be the way to channel my efforts and resources into projects that not only raise awareness but also provide solutions and direct support to those who need it most. This change allowed me to combine my passion for photography with concrete and meaningful action, expanding my impact in the fight against social and environmental problems.

What aspect of your work as an environmentalist did you find most rewarding and why?

The most rewarding thing has been to see the tangible impact of the projects we support on local communities and vulnerable ecosystems. Knowing that the funds and resources we channel are helping to protect crucial habitats, restore degraded areas, and empower communities to become guardians of their environment is incredibly satisfying. In addition, being able to collaborate with organizations and leaders committed to the fight against climate change and the conservation of biodiversity fills me with hope. Seeing the enthusiasm and gratitude of the beneficiaries, as well as the positive results for the environment, reaffirms my conviction that we are on the right path and motivates me to keep going.

What specific strategies do you use to engage people from different backgrounds and communities in conservation and climate change mitigation projects?

I use a combination of education, empathy, and accessibility to engage people from different backgrounds in conservation and climate action. It is essential to present environmental issues in a way that is understandable and relevant to diverse audiences. I leverage the power of social media and art to reach a broader and more diverse public. Today, thanks to social media, we are more connected than ever to the whole world, which carries a great responsibility. The key lies in making conservation and climate action accessible and relevant to everyone, regardless of their background or educational level, and above all, it comes from the example we can set every day.

“Beauty is reflected in how you behave with the people around you, with the planet, and with animals.”

What would you like to achieve in the future?

I would like to see a world where people are deeply connected to nature and feel an inherent responsibility to protect it. I want future generations to grow up with values and a solid environmental consciousness, understanding that we are part of an intrinsically woven ecosystem. My goal is to continue using photography and education to inspire more people to fall in love with the environment and act to preserve it. I dream of a future where we have reversed the damage we have caused and where humanity lives in harmony with nature, respecting and caring for our planet as the shared home that it is.

Professionally, I would like to open my own Foundation, focused on conservation projects, environmental education, and support for vulnerable communities. Through the Foundation, I hope to be able to channel more resources toward initiatives that have a lasting and significant impact, fostering positive and sustainable change all over the world.

What is beauty to you and how do you live it in your routine?

Beauty for me is a genuine connection with nature and with oneself. It is finding wonder in the small things, like a sunrise or the sound of ocean waves. It is also empathy, happiness, health, and kindness. Beauty is reflected in how you behave with the people around you, with the planet, and with animals. In my daily routine, I try to live beauty through contemplation and gratitude. I practice meditation, I play sports, I talk to my family and loved ones. Beauty is a source of constant inspiration and a reminder of the need to protect what we love.

“I practice meditation, I play sports, I talk to my family and loved ones. Beauty is a source of constant inspiration and a reminder of the need to protect what we love.”

Who are your beauty icons?

My mother and my sister are my greatest inspiration. In addition, I admire those who live authentically and in harmony with nature, showing a beauty that goes beyond the superficial. This beauty is reflected in their actions and in how they take care of themselves, their loved ones, and the planet.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

“Act with purpose and passion.” This advice has guided me throughout my life and career, reminding me that every action I take must be aligned with my values. It has taught me the importance of being perseverant and not losing sight of my goals, even when challenges seem insurmountable. This advice has also helped me stay focused and motivated, knowing that every small effort counts and can contribute to a larger change.

“I love seeing brands with a lot of research behind them and knowledge of non-toxic ingredients. I am grateful to have the Beldon team, who always keep me informed about new technologies and products suitable for my skin.”

Beauty Questionnaire:

What is your skincare routine?

I am an incredibly curious and restless person; I like to research everything I use, eat, and drink. Over the years, I have managed to find a routine that works for me. Products like Barbara Sturm’s hyaluronic acid, Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream, and ELTA MD sunscreen are staples in my toiletry bag. Additionally, I prioritize a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and stay well-hydrated. I also dedicate time to meditation and being in touch with nature, which I consider essential for the holistic care of my body and mind.

A foolproof trick or product:

Infrared light has changed my life.

Is there anything left for you to learn or try in the beauty world?

I never stop learning. I love seeing brands with a lot of research behind them and knowledge of non-toxic ingredients. I am grateful to have the Beldon team, who always keep me informed about new technologies and products suitable for my skin. There is always something new to discover, and that keeps me excited and curious about the beauty world.

What are your favorite treatments?

It's hard to choose just one, but I think the FACIAL INNER GLOW is one of my favorite treatments at Beldon.