As part of our standing section of the newsletter that features expert voices from the archival and records management community, Adrià Font Guim, NP cohort of 2025/2026, interviewed Natalia Mendoza Servín, Transparency Coordination and General Archive Office at the University of Guadalajara (Mexico), over email to find out more about her experience. Natalia shared about her career trajectory and also much advice for New Professionals (NP) breaking into the field.
I began working at the Transparency Coordination and General Archive Office at the University of Guadalajara (Mexico). My work was predominantly legal, until one day I was fortunate enough to take on all the responsibilities of that office—including the archives. Archival science changed my career path, as it not only strengthened the subjects I was already proficient in, but also opened up a completely different perspective from what we studied in Law school. Law requires archival science in order to achieve justice in all cases.
Very dynamic. Full of meetings, phone calls, and consultations to provide and classes I’ve been kindly invited to teach. The hours fly by, the day isn’t long enough for everything, but it ends with a great sense of satisfaction and excitement to continue the next day.
How can New Professionals build a strong network within the archival or records management community?
New Professionals can do so by promoting national and international spaces that are focused on archival matters. The perspective of younger generations is very important, which is why I celebrate initiatives like those of the ICA, where New Professionals are supported to meet and share ideas, concerns, and challenges. It’s also important for younger professionals to connect with those who already have experience so they can receive support or guidance when needed.
How can New Professionals advocate for the value of archives or records management in their organisations?
By reminding decision makers that archives are not about the past—they are about the present. Especially in public service, it is these documents that will speak for them (for better or worse) and that’s why they must be properly preserved.
Moreover, I believe that New Professionals must continue to train and educate themselves. That is the only way we can break the stereotypes associated with archival work.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to work internationally in this field?
To study hard, prepare well, and stay in constant communication with various colleagues from different countries.
Natalia Mendoza Servín is a lawyer and expert in transparency, access to information, and data protection. She is the Transparency Coordination and General Archive Office at the University of Guadalajara (Mexico) and is currently pursuing a PhD in Law at the University of Namibia. With a strong legal background and specialisations in gender studies and anti-corruption systems, Natalia has built a career that bridges law, archives, open government, and civic engagement.
