Professional Experience:
I am an international development professional with over 5 years of experience managing and supporting programs (USAID, UNICEF, UNESCO, RTI, and Google) globally, particularly across Africa. My expertise spans program management, proposal development, budgeting, procurement, and compliance, all crucial for the successful implementation of development initiatives aimed at enhancing governance, democracy, and human rights, with a strong focus on gender equality.
In my current role as a Senior Business Development Associate at PartnersGlobal, I have helped in the development and negotiation phases of projects. I successfully contributed to the USAID-funded Powered by the People initiative, a $45 million project with 28 partners aimed at supporting non-violent social movements globally. My efforts have secured over $50 million in funding from various sources, including the U.S. State Department and Global Affairs Canada (GAC), to address critical issues related to gender equity and governance. My experience extends to managing capture trips for business development, where I have effectively engaged with a diverse range of stakeholders, including civil society representatives and bilateral organizations. For example, during a trip to Cambodia, I worked to establish vital partnerships that informed strategic project opportunities with traditional and non-traditional partners.
Previously, as a Programme Research and Management Officer at ILC Africa, I oversaw the USAID-funded Talking Book project, which aimed to improve literacy among pre-primary children in rural Malawi by introducing battery-powered audio devices in 50 education centers. This role required ensuring compliance with USAID's financial and reporting requirements while leading monitoring and evaluation efforts to assess the program's impact on literacy rates. I also supported projects funded by UNESCO and RTI International, contributing to research and reporting efforts that informed project implementation.
In my earlier role as an International Development Analyst at ILC Africa, I provided administrative and logistical support for resource mobilization planning and project management across West Africa. I coordinated the creation and management of a database of over 2,000 African consultants, facilitating contracting processes and improving operational efficiency, with a focus on engaging female consultants and promoting gender diversity.
My academic background includes a Master of Science in Humanitarianism, Aid, and Conflict from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London, where I focused my dissertation on women's involvement in peace processes. I also hold dual Bachelor’s degrees in Government and Applied Mathematics, with a specialization in Statistics, from The College of William & Mary. This strong analytical foundation allows me to engage effectively with data-driven decision-making processes in development work.
Additionally, my experience as a short-term election observer in Albania and Azerbaijan has reinforced my commitment to advancing democratic processes and gender equality. I monitored polling stations and reported on the transparency and fairness of the voting process, contributing to recommendations for electoral improvements.
In summary, I am passionate about leveraging my skills and experience to drive impactful development initiatives that promote democracy, human rights, and effective governance in Africa and beyond. I am eager to continue contributing to meaningful research and development projects that improve the lives of individuals and communities through collaborative locally-driven partnerships, with a dedicated focus on gender equality and empowerment