Belinda Ochiel

Grant Maker and Program Specialist , Ford Foundation

NEW YORK, United States

I am a seasoned senior program officer and grant-maker with extensive experience in peacebuilding, economic and social justice, democracy, and governance, having managed multi-million-dollar funds from leading international donors while leveraging strategic philanthropy, media, and technology for social change across government, philanthropy, and the corporate sector.

Contact Belinda Ochiel
Area of Expertise:
  • Government, Governance, Reforms
Professional Experience:

I am a seasoned senior program officer and grant-maker with a proven track record in advancing peacebuilding, conflict prevention, economic and social justice, democracy, and good governance. My career spans government, philanthropy, and the corporate sector. I have successfully managed multi-million-dollar funds from leading international donors, including the European Union, SIDA, USAID, DFID, UNDP, Open Society Foundations, and the Ford Foundation, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and strategic impact.

My leadership at organizations like the Ford Foundation, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), and Open Society Foundations has honed my policy analysis, stakeholder coordination, donor collaboration, strategic planning, and impact assessment skills. I have consistently facilitated strategic partnerships and promoted community resilience in diverse settings. My career is defined by impactful research, actionable policy recommendations, and strategic project management addressing critical societal issues. With a background in documentary filmmaking and immersive media, I leverage human interest stories and narratives for social change, believing in the power of media to inspire action and drive progress.

Beyond strategic philanthropy, I have spearheaded programs that build resilience for Global South organizations, advance technology for the public good, and promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). I managed program and financial strategies in director-level roles, led diverse teams, and administered complex grants and information systems. My commitment to knowledge dissemination and capacity building is demonstrated through five years of university teaching experience, where I mentored and inspired future changemakers. I am eager to apply my skills and experiences to a role that further contributes to positive social change.



Education:

• PhD in Management, Philanthropy Option, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
• Master of Arts in Diplomacy and Communication Studies, University of Nairobi
• Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication and Public Relations, University of Nairobi, School of Journalism- Kenya, 2001
• Bachelor of Law, LLB, University of Nairobi

Affiliations and Achievements:

Democracy, human rights, law, migration, conflict, justice

Available for:

  • Job opportunities

Years of Experience:

15-20 years

Highest Qualification:

Doctorate

Languages:

English, Kiswahili

Nationality:

Kenya

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