Director of Africa ProgrammesJudith Neilson Foundation
Upenyu is passionate about people, partnerships, improving the lives of the world’s poor and vulnerable, and addressing systemic inequity.
Raised in Zimbabwe, Upenyu has over 15 years’ experience in strategic leadership and program management in the international development and not-for-profit sector. She has leveraged her cross-sectoral/cultural experience, leading teams and working with partners in the design, implementation and quality assurance of programs and partnerships in over 45 African, Asian, Pacific and Latin American countries.
Focussed on realising synergistic impact across the sector and strengthening it, she's also worked with and consulted for over 300 partner organisations and sat on various committees of the Australian and New Zealand development peak bodies.
Upenyu is the Head of Programs for the Africa portfolio at the Judith Neilson Foundation (Australia based) and is an Advisory Committee member for the Australian International Development Network.