Born and raised in Colombia, Mariana has practiced Tibetan Buddhism in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages for over 20 years. Her path has included time as a monastic, periods of long-term retreat, and years of service within retreat centers and Dharma organizations.

Mariana holds a Master's degree in Religious Studies, has taught university-level courses on Buddhism and Indian religions, and has organized large-scale Buddhist events and pilgrimages. She brings deep commitment to integrating Buddhist principles into everyday life—especially in parenting and community building—and is passionate about making Buddhist teachings accessible and relevant across languages and lived experiences.

She previously worked with Middle Way Education, helping develop its curricular framework for Buddhist-inspired learning with children and families. Mariana also served as deputy editor of Buddhadharma, associate editor at Lion's Roar, and editor of El Camino del Buda, Lion's Roar's Spanish-language publication.