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Stephanie Zighe
International Development Professional
Professional Background
Stephanie Zighe is a distinguished international development project leader with over 15 years of experience in developing and managing successful business partnerships and project proposals. Known for her expertise in organizational and donor communication, Stephanie has built a strong reputation in the international development sector, empowering communities through tailored programs in education, livelihoods, nutrition, and gender equality. Her experience includes overseeing high-value projects with budgets exceeding £5 million, ensuring successful execution and compliance with various grant requirements.
Through her roles, Stephanie has demonstrated an exceptional ability to build collaborative partnerships and foster a culture of excellence within her teams. As a Proposal Development Consultant, she continues to leverage her vast experience, providing organizations with strategic guidance on project proposals and developing effective communication plans that resonate with donors and stakeholders alike.
Education and Achievements
Stephanie's educational background lays a strong foundation for her successful career in international development. She pursued her MPhil in Communication from Moi University, where she honed her skills in effective communication strategies and organizational messaging. Prior to that, she earned her BA in English from the same institution, where she developed her passion for writing and storytelling—skills that have proven invaluable in her subsequent roles.
Stephanie's commitment to professional development is reflected in her various positions in prominent organizations. She served as a Grants Manager at BRAC, which is recognized globally for its groundbreaking development initiatives. In this role, she ensured that grant management processes met the highest standards, facilitating positive outcomes for funded projects.
Another significant role in her career was as a Donor Engagement and Communications Advisor at VSO. In this capacity, Stephanie crafted compelling narratives that showcased the impact of development programs, effectively engaging donors and driving funding success. Her ability to communicate the value of development work is a notable contribution to her portfolio.
Additional Roles
Prior to her leading roles in major organizations, Stephanie was involved as a Capacity Building and Project Manager at CEFA Onlus, where she focused on empowering local organizations through capacity-building initiatives. Her work with the Kenya AIDS NGOs Consortium as a Communications and Capacity Building Specialist helped strengthen the AIDS response across the region, showcasing her commitment to health and social issues.
Stephanie also began her career as a Project and Fundraising Officer at Development Through Media, where she gained essential experience in fundraising strategies within the development sector. This early involvement equipped her with a broad understanding of how media and communication can drive development and fundraising initiatives.
Achievements
Over the years, Stephanie has achieved significant milestones in her career through successful project management and effective collaboration. Her innovative communication strategies have not only enhanced stakeholder engagement but have also led to increased funding opportunities for various projects in education and health sectors.
Additionally, her expertise in grant compliance management has ensured that numerous international development programs maintain accountability and transparency, thereby bolstering trust with donors and beneficiaries alike. This has, in turn, culminated in the successful delivery of numerous projects—transforming the lives of many in marginalized communities.
As Stephanie continues her journey, she remains dedicated to innovation in project development and making a significant impact in the international development landscape.
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