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Nwokonneya
Manager, Africa at Adam Smith International - Cities, Infrastructure & Trade - WEF Global Shaper
Professional Background
Queen Nwokonneya is a highly accomplished Private Sector Development professional who brings a wealth of experience in managing strategic economic reform projects across various sectors, with a specialized focus on cities, investment promotion, trade, and enabling a business-friendly environment. Her rich professional journey is marked by a commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth and an impressive repertoire of impactful projects that empower communities and enhance their livelihoods.
Currently, Queen is responsible for developing and overseeing Adam Smith International’s portfolio of projects in West Africa. She plays a pivotal role in steering ongoing economic and business reform initiatives in Nigeria, driving transformative changes that facilitate investment and spur economic development in the region. Her previous positions include significant contributions to prestigious organizations such as PwC, where she served as an Economist, and the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), where she honed her analytical skills as a Project Finance Analyst.
In addition to her corporate roles, Queen has demonstrated a dedication to the broader community through her involvement with esteemed institutions like UNESCO and as a Program Intern at the State Accountability and Voice Initiative (SAVI) under DFID. Her diverse experiences across various levels of economic management make her a leader in her field, showcasing her capability to deliver on complex, multifaceted projects.
Education and Achievements
Queen Nwokonneya's educational background is as impressive as her professional journey. She holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree specializing in Public and Economic Policy from the esteemed London School of Economics and Political Science, a prestigious institution known for cultivating the next generation of leaders in policy-making and economics.
Additionally, she has furthered her expertise through a Certificate in Impact Investing from the University of Oxford's Said Business School, allowing her to merge economic principles with social impact. This commitment to continuous learning also saw her engage in specialized education focused on Monitoring and Results Measurement from the Donor Committee for Enterprise Development, equipping her with the tools to assess and enhance project effectiveness.
At the undergraduate level, Queen earned her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Economics from the University of Nottingham, a solid foundation that has supported her analytical and strategic thinking throughout her career. Her formative education was completed at Olashore International School, which laid the groundwork for her passion for economics and development.
Queen's qualifications align seamlessly with her professional endeavors, creating a strong synergy between her education and practical experience, which has enabled her to contribute effectively to vital economic reforms.
Achievements
Queen is not just a leader in her organization but also a prominent figure in the global development community. She is recognized as a World Economic Forum Global Shaper, contributing her insights and energy to address pressing global challenges alongside other young leaders. This prestigious program unites dynamic change-makers committed to creating positive social impact.
Furthermore, Queen is an Acumen Fellow, a testament to her dedication to tackling systemic issues through innovative approaches. This fellowship supports a diverse network of social entrepreneurs and leaders, where Queen's voice and ideas are vital in pushing forward the agenda for social entrepreneurship and reform. Her involvements showcase her proactive stance in ensuring that economic policies facilitate a brighter future for all, particularly in regions facing developmental challenges.
Queen Nwokonneya’s career is characterized by her unwavering commitment to facilitating sustainable economic improvements, supported by her extensive experience in project management and her well-rounded educational background. Her journey thus far illustrates a commitment to excellence and demonstrates her ability to influence significant change in societies through effective and strategic economic development.
Achievements
Achievements include:
- Leading impactful economic reform projects in West Africa.
- Developing a substantial portfolio at Adam Smith International.
- Significant contributions to PwC and NEXIM that enhanced project finance methodologies.
- Engagement in global youth leadership through the World Economic Forum Global Shapers program.
- Recognized as an Acumen Fellow, showcasing a commitment to social impact and entrepreneurship.
