Suggestions
Danielle Skidmore
Programme Officer at Internews Europe
Professional Background
Danielle Skidmore is a dedicated professional with a rich and diverse background in international development. Throughout her career, Danielle has been extensively involved in programme development, implementation, compliance, and funding, showcasing her commitment to impactful global initiatives. Her profound expertise is grounded in practical experience, having spent both short- and long-term periods in the field, facilitating her nuanced understanding of various contexts and challenges faced by communities in need.
As a Programme Officer at Internews Europe, Danielle has been at the forefront of advancing humanitarian efforts, ensuring that projects resonate with the realities of local audiences. She previously contributed to the organization as a Contracts and Compliance Officer, where she leveraged her keen understanding of compliance and regulatory frameworks to enhance project outcomes. Furthermore, in her role as Humanitarian Funding Officer for Africa at CAFOD, Danielle worked diligently to secure essential resources for valuable initiatives aimed at alleviating human suffering across the continent.
Her remarkable commitment to addressing critical issues such as sexual and reproductive health, harmful cultural practices, and disability rights is evident in her various roles. Notably, her extensive deployment to Beira, Mozambique, following Cyclone Idai, allowed her to witness the immediate challenges and urgent needs of displaced people. Additionally, her six-month stay in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and numerous trips across other regions in DRC, Ghana, and Kenya have deepened her understanding of the complexities involved in humanitarian response.
These field experiences have equipped Danielle with valuable insights into both long-term development and emergency project needs. She adeptly navigates the implementation landscape, whether dealing with the aftermath of conflicts, disease outbreaks such as Ebola and COVID-19, or complex socio-economic challenges. With her extensive background, Danielle is a venerated practitioner in the international development domain, consistently advocating for a high standard of practice and project efficiency.
Education and Achievements
Danielle's educational foundation is rooted in a strong understanding of human rights, philosophy, and humanities. She earned her Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Humanities, focusing on Philosophical and Theological Studies, from St Patrick's College, Carlow. This rigorous academic background laid the groundwork for her deep commitment to social justice and human rights.
Further solidifying her expertise in the field, Danielle pursued a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Human Rights Law at the esteemed Irish Centre for Human Rights at the National University of Ireland, Galway. Her postgraduate studies provided her with the theoretical frameworks necessary to effectively advocate for vulnerable populations, culminating in a thesis on prosecuting child soldiers in the DRC. Through her research, she highlighted the complexities surrounding children implicated in armed conflict, amplifying conversations on human rights policies and protections.
Danielle's academic pursuits have been complemented by her voluntary roles and internships, which contributed to her practical experience in the sector. For instance, during her time as a Fundraising and Operations Intern at AfriKids, Danielle developed practical skills essential for resource mobilization and program management that would serve her well in her subsequent careers.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Danielle Skidmore has established herself as a driving force within the international development arena. Her achievements are not merely confined to numerous roles at distinguished organizations; they resonate through her contributions to the community development landscape. Danielle embodies the principle of localisation, ensuring that projects are not only designed for beneficiaries but crafted with their input, thereby fostering ownership and empowerment.
A significant highlight of Danielle's career was her response to the humanitarian crisis in Beira, Mozambique, where her extensive fieldwork demonstrated adaptability to emergency contexts and her commitment to enhancing the livelihood of vulnerable populations. In addition to addressing the immediate post-Cyclone Idai challenges, her engagements in Eastern DRC amid conflict underscore her ongoing journey to find solutions for individuals ensnared in humanitarian crises.
Furthermore, Danielle's advocacy extends beyond immediate responses to emergencies; her focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights emphasizes her passion for broader societal issues. In navigating cultural sensitivities, she is recognized for developing programmes that address harmful cultural practices and promote inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
In summary, Danielle Skidmore's career is characterized by a synthesis of academic rigor and practical experience, promoting human rights and social justice on a global scale. Through her unwavering commitment to community participation, compliance, and effective communication, she continues to make significant strides in international development. She is not only a professional with extensive expertise but also a champion for amplifying local voices and ensuring meaningful engagement in every project.