Entrepreneur from Santa Catarina shines at European Sustainability Week.

Soraia Zonta, an entrepreneur from Santa Catarina and founder of Bioart Biodermocosméticos, continues to reinforce her leadership in sustainability and female empowerment.

Elected the first Latin American woman to win gold in the Women Led Initiatives category of the Chemical Leasing Award and named a UN ambassador for clean, green and sustainable beauty, Soraia was invited to share her journey at the Paris-Saclay cluster during the European Week for Sustainable Development in October 2025.

"It was a special opportunity to share my globally recognized journey as a female leader, my transition to a green career, and to present my book." On the Skin "For students of innovation and sustainability," said Soraia.

She highlighted the importance of uniting science, diversity, and innovation in building a sustainable future.

The Paris-Saclay cluster, comprised of 14 educational and research institutions, stands out for its excellence in research and innovation. The event brought together researchers and entrepreneurs from the Global South to present concrete solutions to climate and social challenges.

“I am pleased to advance the work for female representation in green science and technology. During my visit, we discussed ways to strengthen innovation in green beauty, showing how science and diversity can go hand in hand,” she commented.

International recognition

In March 2025, Soraia received historic recognition in Vienna, Austria, becoming the first Latin American to win gold in the Women Led Initiatives category of the Chemical Leasing Award. She was also chosen by the UN, through UNIDO, as a regional ambassador for green beauty.

Pioneering in Clean Beauty

Originally from Canelinha (SC) and working in the sector for 20 years, Soraia is a reference in clean beauty in Brazil. A researcher and innovator, she developed natural, organic and biodegradable cosmetics, solving skin allergies she has faced since childhood.

Based in Greater Florianópolis, Bioart Biodermocosméticos stands out for creating innovative biodermocosmetics, including physical sunscreens, lines in collaboration with dermatologists, mineral makeup, and vegan cosmetics.