Lara Render is a dynamic advocate for the responsible and equitable use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, representing the European Union at the Y7 Summit. With a rich background in education, technology, and intercultural collaboration, Lara brings a holistic and forward-thinking approach to addressing global challenges in the digital era.
A German native, Lara’s passion for intercultural understanding and technological innovation was ignited during a school exchange in Argentina, and she has since dedicated her academic and professional pursuits to bridging science and global perspectives. She holds a German-French-Luxembourgish bachelor’s degree in physics and completed a master’s degree in International Design Business Management at Aalto University. Her academic journey included a year as a visiting scholar at Minerva University, where she explored innovative online learning methods and self-organized educational environments.
Lara’s professional experience spans roles as a software engineer and educational technology innovator. At Vector Informatik, she contributed to developing the AUTOSAR Adaptive Platform, advancing automotive software capabilities. She also managed the redesign of user interfaces as a product owner at Lern-Fair, demonstrating her ability to integrate user-centered design principles with technological innovation. Her work with SAP Rural Sourcing Management took her to Uganda and Indonesia, where she supported change management and tested software in rural settings, emphasizing her commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive development.
Lara’s advocacy extends beyond her professional work. She is a dedicated mentor, tutoring children through “Kinderhelden,” and an experienced organizer, having served on the board of the Tönissteiner Kreis student forum and as a steering committee member of the Global Young Greens. Her involvement in initiatives such as the Huawei Seeds for the Future Programme and a science diplomacy summer school further demonstrates her dedication to combining technology, education, and international collaboration.
As a polyglot fluent in English, French, Spanish, and with basic knowledge of Finnish and Chinese, Lara thrives in multicultural and multilingual settings. Her technical skills, including proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and R, complement her interdisciplinary expertise, making her a standout advocate for the ethical and impactful development of artificial intelligence and digital tools.
At the Y7 Summit, Lara will champion a vision for digital transformation that upholds European values and empowers young people to actively shape technological futures. Her focus on sustainable innovation and her dedication to fostering equitable opportunities position her as a leader prepared to navigate the complexities of AI and digital technology in the global landscape.