Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 42 years of experience in social work, child protection, and safeguarding, the expert possesses a deep expertise in Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and child safeguarding. Career highlights include leading initiatives that effectively reduced SEA risks and secured substantial funding for safeguarding projects. Responsibilities have included implementing strategic safeguarding policies and building capacity within local and international programs, particularly in leadership roles at organizations such as UNICEF and Save the Children.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors such as ECHO-OIM and the European Union Delegation in Guinea Bissau, focusing on project implementation and capacity building in child protection and safeguarding. They have led significant initiatives, including the "Preventing Abuse by Aid Workers" project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and secured funding for safeguarding activities in Guinea Bissau. Their work is both regional and national in scope, addressing thematic areas like child protection, human rights, and prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in diverse sectors, including education, social development, child welfare, gender and human rights, and humanitarian relief, the expert has held key roles such as Child Protection Advisor, Regional Advisor, and Chief of Child Protection. Their responsibilities have ranged from strategic planning and policy implementation to capacity building and advocacy. The expert's cross-cutting expertise includes integrating safeguarding measures in emergency responses and development programs. Geographic experience spans national and regional initiatives in Africa and the Middle East, including countries like Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea Bissau, Iraq, and within the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

Languages and education

With proficiency in English and French and a basic understanding of Portuguese, the expert has utilized language skills in various professional contexts, including international development projects and collaborations with organizations such as UNICEF and Oxfam. Their multilingual abilities have facilitated effective communication and coordination within multilingual teams across different regions. The expert holds a Master of Sciences in Social Work from the University of Montreal, Canada, and a Licence in Philosophy with a focus on Psychology from the University of Yaoundé, Cameroon. These academic qualifications provide a strong foundation in social sciences and psychology, supporting their extensive career in social work and child protection.