Happiness Mwamasika
Eagan,MN
Summary
Accomplished professional with over 18 years of experience in international economic development, specializing in consulting for private sector and non-governmental organizations throughout East Africa. Recognized as a dynamic leader and skilled development practitioner, fostering collaboration and inspiring action through exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Proven track record of significant contributions to critical initiatives in maternal health, children's rights, community development, women's empowerment, ecotourism, wildlife conservation, and entrepreneurship. Currently located in the Washington, DC area and eager to leverage extensive international expertise to drive impactful results for U.S.-based organizations.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
CONSULTANT IN POLICY & INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
01.2009 - Current
- Develop and implement strategic operational plans for nature-based enterprises, women’s associations, and sustainable development projects for both non-profit organizations and the private sector, including US-based groups
- Collaborate with highest levels of government in East Africa and via embassies to support policy development
- Coordinate development efforts among multiple sectors: public, private, NGO, communities, and investors
- Establish strong networks among private sector executives, NGO directors, government ministries, and civil society
- Key projects:
- Advised women’s associations on enterprise development initiatives, including creation of SME tourism development and service providers
- Developed women’s empowerment training course in conservation community banking
- Co-led dispute resolution processes concerning land rights and conflicts in northern Tanzania
BOARD MEMBER
MATERNITY AFRICA
Arusha, Tanzania
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Supported efforts to establish a state-of-the-art healthcare facility, the Kivulini Maternity Centre, in Tanzania
- Created strategies to strengthen collaboration among directors, management, government, and stakeholders
BOARD MEMBER
FOCUS ON TANZANIAN COMMUNITIES
Boston, MA
01.2009 - 01.2011
- Formed partnership between NGO and Tanzanian communities to foster development and growth
- Supported donor and fundraising outreach effort and expanded NGO’s scope and mission
DIRECTOR
HEARTS OF HOPE CHILDREN’S CENTER
Dodoma, Tanzania
01.2005 - 01.2010
- Developed policies, including health-oriented policies, for orphans and vulnerable children at center
- Liaised with government agencies to educate communities on children’s rights issues
ADVOCACY DIRECTOR
KULUENA CHILD RIGHTS CENTER
Mwanza, Tanzania
01.2004 - 01.2005
- Educated stakeholders on USAID/PEPFAR guidelines for OVC grants and HIV/AIDS information
- Collaborated with youth organizations on HIV/AIDS education programs and capacity-building initiatives
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
DODOMA CHRISTIAN MEDICAL CENTER
Dodoma, Tanzania
01.2003 - 01.2004
- Responsible for personnel recruitment as well as for supporting and directing volunteers and staff
- Managed $100,000 budget and successfully applied for youth training grants and other types of monetary support
Education
MA - Sustainable International Development
Brandeis University, Heller School for Social Policy and Management
Waltham, MA01.2009
BA - Economics
St. Olaf College
Northfield, MN01.2003
Skills
- Effective problem resolution
- Attention to detail
- Team leadership & development
- Client engagement
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 200 staff members.
- Achieved receiving certification of operation by completing registration of DCMC and Maternity as registered non profits with accuracy and efficiency.
- Collaborated with team of 50 people in the development of Women Enterprises which resulted in women gaining financial independence.
LANGUAGES
English – Native
Swahili – Native
Hehe - Fluent
Gogo - Conversational
Interests
- Enjoy participating in hiking and birding for overall physical and mental well-being
- Documenting and sharing travel experiences
- Volunteering for community initiatives to give back to local communities and make a positive impact
Timeline
BOARD MEMBER
MATERNITY AFRICA
01.2017 - 01.2019
CONSULTANT IN POLICY & INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
01.2009 - Current
BOARD MEMBER
FOCUS ON TANZANIAN COMMUNITIES
01.2009 - 01.2011
DIRECTOR
HEARTS OF HOPE CHILDREN’S CENTER
01.2005 - 01.2010
ADVOCACY DIRECTOR
KULUENA CHILD RIGHTS CENTER
01.2004 - 01.2005
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
DODOMA CHRISTIAN MEDICAL CENTER
01.2003 - 01.2004
BA - Economics
St. Olaf College
MA - Sustainable International Development
Brandeis University, Heller School for Social Policy and Management
PERSONAL
Ms. Mwamasika lives in Great Falls, Virginia with her family. She is an avid hiker among local, state, and national parks. She also continues to support a number of women’s empowerment and civil society movements in East Africa.