Makélé Saïdi
About Makélé Saïdi
Makélé Saïdi serves as the Director of Corporate Engagement for Central Canada at Catalyst Inc., where he has worked since 2019. He has extensive experience in international relations and corporate partnerships, having previously held positions at various organizations including the African Development Bank and the United Nations.
Current Role at Catalyst Inc.
Makélé Saïdi serves as the Director of Corporate Engagement for Central Canada at Catalyst Inc. since 2019. In this role, Saïdi focuses on advancing women into leadership positions by managing partnerships with over 50 global companies across various sectors, including law, financial services, and mining. This position is based in the Toronto, Canada Area and involves strategic engagement to promote diversity and inclusion in corporate environments.
Previous Experience in Corporate Affairs
Prior to joining Catalyst Inc., Saïdi held several positions that contributed to her expertise in corporate affairs. She worked as a Legal & Corporate Affairs Officer at ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company) in Nairobi, Kenya, from 2016 to 2017. Additionally, she served as Partnerships Lead at the African Development Bank Group in Cote D’Ivoire for six months in 2018. Her experience also includes a role as Adviser at the Rwanda Permanent Mission to the United Nations from 2009 to 2010.
Educational Background
Saïdi has a diverse educational background with degrees from multiple institutions. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and History from The University of British Columbia. She also holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) in International Law from York University - Osgoode Hall Law School. Furthermore, she completed a Master's degree in International Affairs at The Fletcher School at Tufts University in 2023. Saïdi has participated in exchange programs at Uppsala University and the National University of Singapore, focusing on Development Studies and International Business Law, respectively.
Legal and International Experience
Saïdi's career includes significant legal and international experience. She interned at the African Development Bank in the Human Development Division in 2011 and worked as a Legal Intern at the Supreme Court of the Republic of Rwanda in 2013. Additionally, she was a Trainee at the World Trade Organization from 2010 to 2011. Her roles have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks and international relations.
Bilingual Proficiency and Global Perspective
Saïdi is bilingual, possessing native proficiency in both French and English. Her unique global perspective is shaped by her experiences living and working in 12 cities across four continents. This exposure has enhanced her intercultural competence and strategic understanding of cross-border socio-economic trends. Saïdi is also passionate about addressing the underlying factors of migration, including inequality, unemployment, and climate change.