Sophia Fernandes

Sophia Fernandes currently serves as Chemonics UK’s Human Development Practice Lead. She is a global expert in women, peace and security, women’s political participation and inclusive governance with over 14 years of experience. She has led Women, Peace, and Security programs in Jordan, supported political inclusion across 30+ countries, and advised FCDO and Global Affairs Canada on feminist foreign policy. She has managed multi-million-dollar democracy and inclusion portfolios and is a published thought leader on gender equality and political leadership. She co-chairs the UK’s Gender and Development Network’s Women’s Participation and Leadership Working Group and sits on the Board of Directors of Girl Determined, a non-profit organisation working in Myanmar to advance the rights of girls. Her work has shaped inclusive governance strategies in fragile and transitioning states.