Giuliana Perini Villanueva is a medical student at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine and holds an MPH from Tufts University. A 2026 MOLA–Michael Reese Research and Education Foundation Scholar, she received the 2026 Pilar Ortega, MD Award, recognizing exceptional leadership, academic vision, and meaningful action that creates lasting community impact. Her published research focuses on diabetes care, health disparities, and healthy aging.

As President of UCLA’s Med Mentors and a leader on the LMSA National Mentorship Committee, she expands opportunities for underrepresented students pursuing medicine. Born in Colombia and raised in Miami, Giuliana is committed to advancing health equity, strengthening mentorship, and empowering future Latino healthcare professionals.