Dr. Ornela Cuci is an environmental scientist, seasoned policymaker, and international climate finance exper with over 20 years of experience shaping environmental governance and sustainability policy. She served as a Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania from 2017 to 2022, where she led national efforts on environmental monitoring, climate change adaptation, and international cooperation. 

Internationally, Dr. Cuci hsd held key leadership roles, including Board Member of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Council Member of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), representing the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region in major global climate finance decisions. She also chaired the GCF Accreditation Committee and participated in the GEF-8 replenishment process for 44 countries.

She is currently a Senior Lecturer at Western Balkans University in Tirana, Albania, and serves on the Governing Board of Tod'Aers Global Network. Her work extends globally, including roles as Climate Finance Expert at ORF India, Vice President at IKAR Holdings, and EU evaluator for sustainability projects.

Fluent in six languages, Dr. Cuci is known for her engaging insights on environmental planning, urban waste systems, and sustainable development strategies. She speaks regularly at international conferences and forums, bridging science, policy, and practical action.