Key skills and expertise

With 24 years of experience in project management, the expert is a certified PMP and Chartered Geographer. They have led international security and peacekeeping initiatives across Africa, including rebuilding infrastructure and facilitating humanitarian projects. Notable achievements include managing over 90 training courses in the South African Army and implementing a multi-organizational ergonomic study. The expert has held leadership roles in both military and non-profit sectors, demonstrating skills in strategic planning, budget management, and organizational development, with a strong focus on international cooperation and capacity building.

Project experience and donor exposure

Having established strong working relationships with international donors and NGOs, the expert served as a Military Engineer Staff Officer with the UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This role involved project implementation in infrastructure, specifically rebuilding bridges, maintaining roads, and constructing a school and fire training center. These projects facilitated humanitarian and government activities, showcasing the expert's capability in managing large-scale projects in challenging environments across Africa.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked across multiple sectors, including community development, NGOs, gender and human rights, administration, fundraising and grant management, security and peacebuilding, and project management. Previously held roles such as program manager and military engineer staff officer have involved managing complex projects and programs. Their interdisciplinary expertise includes integrating infrastructure development with peacekeeping operations. The expert's work spans regional initiatives in Africa, with a focus on strategic planning, capacity building, and international cooperation.

Extensive geographic experience across Africa includes significant roles in South Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan. Their work in international security and peacekeeping has developed strong relationships with local governments and NGOs. Assignments have involved infrastructure projects and capacity building, providing a deep understanding of regional development challenges and cultural dynamics in these areas.

Languages and education

The expert possesses native proficiency in English and is fluent in Spanish, utilizing these languages effectively in professional settings and international collaborations. Additionally, they have full proficiency in Afrikaans, which has been beneficial in multilingual teams and cross-cultural engagements in Africa. These language skills have supported roles in international development and peacekeeping operations.

The expert holds a Master of Arts in History (cum laude) and a BA Honours in both History and Geography from the University of South Africa. Additionally, they earned a Bachelor of Military Science in History, Strategy, and Geography from Stellenbosch University in South Africa. These academic qualifications underscore a strong foundation in historical and geographical studies, complemented by strategic military insights.