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Apryl Gibson
Harnessing the superpowers of volunteers and languages @ Kiva
Professional Background
Apryl Gibson is a seasoned professional with a rich tapestry of experiences spanning across international development, volunteerism, and community engagement. Her career is marked by a commitment to empowering individuals and communities through effective communication and advocacy. Apryl has held several positions across notable organizations, including Kiva.org, where she serves as Volunteer Coordinator and Review and Translation Program Manager. Her role at Kiva.org underscores her dedication to fostering micro-lending and economic opportunities in underserved communities around the world.
Prior to her current position, Apryl gained valuable experience as a Team Director at Outreach360, where she led efforts to enhance educational opportunities for youth in underprivileged areas. Her work with the Peace Corps is particularly noteworthy, as she served both as a Youth Development and Volunteerism Specialist and as a Grassroots Community Development Technical Trainer. These roles exemplify her dedication to strategic community engagement and the cultivation of local leadership.
In addition to her direct service roles, Apryl has also contributed to research and policy development, having worked as a Student Capstone Project Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton and as a Department Research Assistant at the East Central European Center at Columbia University. Her background also includes service as a Grant Research Intern at Right to Play, where she contributed to initiatives focused on children’s rights and development through sport.
Education and Achievements
Apryl Gibson's educational journey is as impressive as her career trajectory. She pursued her Master of International Affairs at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) with a concentration in Urban and Social Policy and International Media, Advocacy, and Communications. Studying at SIPA has equipped her with a profound understanding of policy frameworks and the intricacies of international relations, further honing her skills in advocacy and community empowerment.
Earlier in her academic career, she completed a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish at La Sierra University, where she developed strong communication skills that would later serve her well in her professional endeavors, allowing her to engage effectively in multilingual contexts and global discussions.
Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Apryl has been recognized for her contributions to the fields of community development and volunteerism. Her volunteer initiatives and ability to manage diverse teams highlight her natural leadership abilities and her commitment to fostering positive societal change. Apryl's combined experiences as both a practitioner and a consultant place her at the intersection of theory and practice, enabling her to design and implement programs that yield tangible results.
As a testament to her ability to navigate complex challenges, Apryl has also served with the US Census Bureau in various capacities, including as a Census Crew Leader and Questionnaire Assistance Center Representative. This experience not only enhanced her analytical skills but also her understanding of data management in community planning and resource allocation.
Furthermore, her diverse roles across multiple organizations highlight her adaptability and ability to thrive in dynamic environments. Apryl’s rich background in international development, volunteerism, research, and policy positions makes her a valuable asset and a thought leader in her field.