Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 21 years of professional experience, the expert excels in program management, conflict resolution, and human rights advocacy. With over 10 years in management roles, including more than 5 years in conflict zones, the expert has successfully raised nearly $2 million for protection projects and supported the release of 700 child soldiers. Responsibilities have included leading multinational teams, managing donor relations, and providing technical advice on best practices. Leadership roles have spanned local and international initiatives, emphasizing civilian protection and sustainable development.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors such as UNICEF, UNHCR, DFID, and USAID, raising nearly $2 million for projects focused on civilian protection, including women, children, and refugees. This involvement included project implementation, donor relations, and grants management, primarily in South Sudan. The projects were national in scope, addressing themes of human rights and protection in conflict zones.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked in sectors including humanitarian aid, human rights, security, conflict resolution, and program management. Previously held roles such as Child Protection Officer, Senior Program Officer, and Political Affairs Intern, with responsibilities including developing protection projects, managing donor relations, and providing legal consulting. Their cross-cutting expertise includes grants management and policy analysis, with a geographic focus in South Sudan and India. The expert has also engaged in advocacy and capacity building, contributing to international development and peacebuilding efforts. Extensive geographic experience in South Sudan includes managing multinational teams and engaging with local stakeholders to address regional development issues. Additionally, the expert has experience in India, providing legal consulting and participating in research projects related to access to justice. Their work has also taken them to the United States for educational pursuits and internships with international organizations.

Languages and education

With a background in language proficiency, the expert is fluent in English and a native speaker of Malayalam. These language skills have been utilized in various professional contexts, including in-country work and collaboration with multilingual teams. Additionally, the expert has beginner-level proficiency in French and Arabic, enhancing engagement in diverse international environments. Educational background includes a Master of International Development Policy from Duke University, USA, with a concentration in Social Policy, Human Rights, and Peace and Conflict Resolution. They also hold a Master of International Human Rights Laws (LL.M) from Cochin University of Science & Technology, India, focusing on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B (Hon’s)) from Mahatma Gandhi University, India, with a concentration in Civil Law, Criminal Law, and Human Rights.