Aditi Lalbahadur (She / Her)

As a research and advocacy specialist based in Johannesburg, South Africa, I bring over 24 years of experience in policy analysis, strategic advocacy, and thought leadership, with a focus on conflict, human rights, international humanitarian law, and foreign policy. My career has enabled me to foster meaningful collaborations across government, academia, broadcast media, and, most importantly, within civil society organizations, where I am committed to advancing democracy, human rights, and social justice. I have had the privilege of facilitating high-level dialogue—including with former Presidents and senior leaders—and believe deeply in the transformative power of collective action. Building and nurturing diverse coalitions has been central to my approach, grounded in the conviction that sustainable change requires inclusive partnerships and diverse perspectives. Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion is fundamental to my work, and I thrive in multi-cultural environments that encourage learning and innovation. My leadership style is collaborative and rooted in servant leadership, with a strong focus on empowering teams, cultivating talent, and achieving meaningful impact through high-quality, strategic outputs. With over a decade of experience leading global teams and more than 15 years mentoring emerging leaders, I find great fulfillment in supporting others’ growth. Since 2023, I have had the opportunity to mentor surgical professionals through the Global Surgery Advocacy Fellowship (a partnership with Operation Smile, Nkafu Policy Institute, and the University of Global Health Equity), supporting their global health ambitions. My background encompasses project, people, and budget management, as well as robust monitoring and evaluation expertise. In 2024, I was honored to join the board of the Trevor Huddleston Memorial Centre, contributing strategic direction to uplift communities and empower youth. I remain dedicated to continuous learning, collaborative leadership, and the pursuit of social justice through advocacy and service.