Sign In

Megan Gerrard

Senior International Development Project Advisor

Professional Background

Megan Gerrard is a distinguished professional with nearly 15 years of extensive experience in humanitarian and international development, specializing in program and project management, research, and advocacy. Her work has demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing pressing global challenges, particularly in the areas of gender equality, protection, women's empowerment, energy, and food security. Throughout her career, she has been actively engaged with refugees and crisis-affected communities across multiple countries, including Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Philippines, Rwanda, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Megan has proven herself to be a leader in her field, holding prominent advisory positions and leading interagency working groups to promote best practices in humanitarian response and sustainability. Her ability to coordinate efforts across diverse organizations reflects her strong leadership skills and her passion for creating a tangible impact in the lives of those she serves. She has been recognized for her strategic thinking and commitment to advancing meaningful solutions to complex humanitarian issues.

Education and Achievements

Megan's educational background is rooted in her dedication to international affairs and development, having completed her Master's degree in International Affairs, focusing on Economic and Political Development at the renowned School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) at Columbia University. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs with a concentration in African Studies from The George Washington University, complemented by her studies in African Studies at both Suffolk University and the University of Cape Town. These prestigious academic pursuits have equipped her with a strong foundation in understanding global dynamics, the intricacies of international policy, and the socio-economic challenges facing developing nations.

Megan's career is marked by a series of impactful roles in various esteemed organizations, underscoring her versatility and expertise in the international development sector. She has served as the Senior International Development Project Advisor at Global Affairs Canada, where she provided strategic guidance and oversight for numerous international initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development and humanitarian response. Earlier in her career, she was a Substitute Teacher at ELS Educational Services, which enhanced her communication skills and cultural awareness in working with diverse populations.

At the UNHCR, Megan held the position of Protection & Energy Consultant focused on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Prevention & Response, highlighting her commitment to women's rights and safety in crisis situations. Her role as Director of Program & Humanitarian Advisor at the United Nations Foundation allowed her to leverage her expertise in program development and advocacy for vulnerable populations on a global scale.

Throughout her tenure as a Senior Program Officer for Gender-based Violence Prevention at the Women's Refugee Commission, Megan spearheaded initiatives to prevent and respond to violence against women in humanitarian contexts, showcasing her dedication to advancing gender equity. Additionally, as a Policy Officer & Project Manager at the World Food Programme (WFP), she played a crucial role in shaping humanitarian policies and managing projects that support food security and sustainable livelihoods.

Notable Contributions

Megan has made significant contributions to various organizations, demonstrating her ability to influence policy and programming in the humanitarian sector. Her advisory role at UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, underscores her expertise in refugee protection and advocacy for displaced populations. Likewise, her engagement with the World Food Programme—including her strategy consulting for the Central African Republic—has been pivotal in driving impactful food services, such as School Feeding Programs designed to improve educational outcomes among vulnerable children.

Megan's early career experiences, such as her work with Women for Women International, have laid a solid foundation for her long-term commitment to empowering women and fostering resilience in communities affected by conflict and crisis. Her diverse professional history reflects a relentless pursuit of knowledge, skill enhancement, and a profound commitment to humanitarian causes.

In summary, Megan Gerrard exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated professional in the fields of humanitarian aid and international development. Her extensive experience working with marginalized and crisis-affected populations, her strategic leadership roles, and her academic prowess make her a formidable influence in the ongoing efforts to tackle global inequalities and support sustainable development.

tags':['humanitarian experience','international development','program management','project management','research','advocacy','gender issues','women empowerment','energy security','food security','crisis affected communities','refugees','Cameroon','DR Congo','Kenya','Philippines','Rwanda','Senegal','Sudan','Tanzania','Uganda','Columbia University','The George Washington University','World Food Programme','UNHCR','leadership','gender-based violence','sustainable development'],

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

},

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

},

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

}]},

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

},

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

},

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

},

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

:

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

Related Questions

How did Megan Gerrard develop her expertise in humanitarian and international development?
What specific initiatives has Megan Gerrard led in the area of gender and women's empowerment?
In what ways has Megan Gerrard contributed to the improvement of food security in crisis-affected communities?
How has Megan Gerrard's education influenced her career in international affairs and humanitarian work?
What leadership qualities has Megan Gerrard demonstrated in her advisory roles within international organizations?
Can Megan Gerrard share insights from her experience working with refugees and crisis-affected communities?
What are some of the significant achievements Megan Gerrard has accomplished in her roles at the World Food Programme and UNHCR?
How does Megan Gerrard approach research and advocacy in her humanitarian work?
What lessons has Megan Gerrard learned from her extensive experience in various countries facing humanitarian crises?
Megan Gerrard
Add to my network

Location

United States