Sophia Fernandes joined our Canberra-based team in 2026, having previously been a member of Chemonics’ London-based human development practice where she led our European portfolio of work in Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), education, health and governance. 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 supported GEDSI and 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 sits on the Board of Directors of Girl Determined, a non-profit organization working in Myanmar to advance the rights of girls. Her work has shaped inclusive governance strategies in fragile and transitioning states. Sophia earned her bachelors in gender studies from the University of Melbourne and her masters in public policy (awarded with merit) from the Australian National University.