Nada Zohdy

Nada Zohdy is a prominent nonprofit leader and social entrepreneur currently serving as the Global Network Lead (Deputy Director, Global Programs) at the Obama Foundation, a position she has held since August 2022. In this role, she is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to connect over 1,000 alumni from the Foundation’s leadership programs across more than 100 countries, fostering collaboration on various social change issues, particularly those related to democracy.12

Background and Experience

Zohdy has over a decade of experience as a democracy advocate and more than 15 years in community building. Before joining the Obama Foundation, she was the Director of the Open Gov Hub in Washington, D.C., where she significantly expanded its membership and programming, doubling its member organizations and quadrupling its initiatives. Under her leadership, the Open Gov Hub became a key player in promoting open government practices globally.12

She has also worked extensively with over 150 nonprofits to enhance their capacity for civic engagement and collaboration. Her early career included creating a civil society partnerships program at the Project on Middle East Democracy, where she supported local NGOs during the Arab Spring.12

Education

Nada Zohdy holds a Master in Public Policy (MPP) from the Harvard Kennedy School and a Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, where she was recognized as a Truman Scholar in 2009. Her academic background complements her extensive practical experience in social innovation and community development.12

Personal Life

Originally from Egypt and raised near Detroit, Michigan, Zohdy is passionate about building social capital and community engagement. She resides in Washington, D.C., with her spouse and pets, enjoying activities like biking and yoga in her spare time.12