Zara Mahdi
About Zara Mahdi
Zara Mahdi is a Project Management Officer with over 10 years of experience in project implementation and stakeholder engagement. She has held various roles in organizations such as Adam Smith International, EdTech Hub, and UNDP, and has a strong academic background in Development Studies and Cultural Studies.
Current Role at ODI
Zara Mahdi serves as a Project Management Officer at the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) in London, England. She has held this position since 2019, contributing to various projects that require extensive coordination and stakeholder engagement. Her role involves managing project timelines, resources, and communication among team members and external partners, ensuring that project objectives are met efficiently.
Previous Experience
Zara Mahdi has a diverse background in project management and communications. She worked at Adam Smith International as a Communications & Outreach Officer for the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency from 2014 to 2017. Additionally, she served as a Research Operations Officer at EdTech Hub in London for seven months in 2021 and held the position of Programme Manager at Freedom Foundation Nigeria from 2008 to 2010. Her experience also includes a role as a Consultant for UNDP in Sierra Leone.
Educational Background
Zara Mahdi studied at London South Bank University, where she earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Development Studies from 2010 to 2011. Prior to that, she completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Mass Communications & Cultural Studies at London Metropolitan University from 2001 to 2004. Her educational background provides her with a strong foundation in development economics and critical theory.
Stakeholder Engagement Expertise
Zara Mahdi has over 10 years of experience in managing relationships with indigenous grassroots communities and inter-governmental organizations. Her expertise in stakeholder engagement is crucial for the successful implementation of projects. She has played a key role in developing a Communications Strategy for the Local Content Policy in Sierra Leone, which enhanced media and public engagement.
Research Initiatives
Zara Mahdi has conducted significant research initiatives, including a PEER study that highlights her proficiency in participatory research methodologies. Her work often focuses on collaboration between public and private sectors, particularly in the context of implementing local content policies in Sierra Leone.