PATRICIA AYMA

Brainstormer, Business leader, Change Agent, Entrepreneur, Environmentalist, Idea generator, Industrialist, Scientist, Startup

My journey has been shaped by resilience and a passion for science. Born with underdeveloped bronchi, I spent much of my childhood and adolescence battling respiratory illnesses. My memories from school involve always wearing a robe stained with green mucus and doctors saying, "pneumonia due to bacteria." These experiences sparked my curiosity about the microscopic world, especially bacteria, which eventually became the focus of my life’s work. I studied biotechnology at the Autonomous University of Barcelona and later pursued a master’s in environmental engineering at the University of Barcelona. During this time, I discovered my passion for using bacteria to produce biodegradable bioplastics from organic waste. Loving this project so much, I submitted it to an entrepreneurship competition, where I met my co-founders, Jordi and Noelia. Winning the contest gave us the incredible opportunity to visit Silicon Valley, where we explored the world’s leading tech companies. The trip inspired us to the fullest and gave us the push to turn the idea into a reality. In 2018, we founded VEnvirotech. We are transforming the plastics industry with a plastic that doesn’t pollute. We have the first 100% biodegradable bioplastic made from organic waste with bacteria, which I like to call "the BIO-BIOplastic: From its origin to its end-of-life." Created from organic resources and designed to biodegrade and compost, it is engineered to protect the environment while meeting the demands of today’s market. As President and CTO of VEnvirotech, I lead the development of bacterial technology and oversee the optimization of processes that enable bacteria to efficiently produce bioplastics... I can say I am a bacteria trainer!!! My role involves not just advancing scientific breakthroughs but also driving their application in ways that contribute to a circular economy and reduce environmental impact. Beyond science, I’m deeply committed to inspiring others, particularly women, to explore careers in STEM and sustainable innovation. For me, biotechnology is more than a field... it’s a powerful tool to address global challenges, from waste management to climate change, and to create a better future for both the planet and society. There has been an agricultural and a industrial revolution, also a digital revolution, and the biotechnological revolution is yet to comei

I’m passionate about a variety of things that connect me to nature, creativity, and my loved ones. Horse riding is one of my favorite hobbies... I ride Arabian horses and love exploring the countryside and mountains of Catalonia. I’m also deeply interested in sustainability, which is why I’m working on transforming my countryside home, complete with a garden, chickens, a rainwater well, and solar panels, into a 100% sustainable house. Another passion of mine is fermentation: whether it’s making bread, pizza, or even wine and cava (a Catalan specialty), I enjoy learning the process and experimenting with it at home. I also practice agility with my dog Rey, a very special Border Collie who’s my perfect companion in this sport. And, of course, I love spending time with friends and sharing these passions with them!

Routine is the ultimate tool for achieving success, and bacterial behavior serves as a compelling example to illustrate this.

Bacteria, Entrepreneurship, Fermentations, Industrial biotechnology

My TED journey began as an admirer, captivated by the incredible people who shared their stories on the stage. I found myself inspired by their ideas and their ability to spark change, so much so that I would often jot down notes from TED Talks that resonated with me. These talks fueled my curiosity and drive to explore bold ideas of my own. The turning point came when I was invited to give a TEDx Talk about something I am deeply passionate about: bacteria and their untapped potential to transform industries and create sustainable solutions. That opportunity came to life at TEDxLleida, where I shared how bacteria can be powerful allies in addressing global challenges. Later, my journey with TED took a new and exciting turn. Together with my co-founder Noelia, we delivered a TEDx Talk focused on a topic very close to our hearts: building a successful professional partnership. In this talk, we shared the methodology and key principles that have enabled us to work together harmoniously and effectively, creating something extraordinary as a team. Each of these experiences has deepened my connection to the TED community and reinforced my belief in the power of ideas to inspire and drive meaningful change.

Most people don’t know this about me, but I’ve got some pretty good moves on the dance floor! I'm a really good Salsa dancer!