Shenard Mazengera

I am a seasoned advocacy and policy professional with over 24 years of experience leading strategic initiatives across global development, human rights, and governance sectors. My work spans Africa, Asia, and Europe, where I’ve shaped public policy, driven rights-based programming, and built inclusive advocacy strategies that empower communities and influence decision-makers. Currently serving at the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi), I lead global and regional advocacy efforts to reform biomedical R&D systems, engaging with multilateral institutions such as the WHO and regional policy platforms. My previous roles include Regional Advocacy Manager at WaterAid Southern Africa and Habitat for Humanity International, where I developed and implemented regional influencing strategies, built strategic networks, and supported country-level policy work. As an independent consultant, I’ve partnered with organizations such as Oxfam, SOS Villages, and SCI-Malawi to deliver impactful research, evaluations, and gender-sensitive policy frameworks. I bring deep expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building, with a strong legal foundation and a commitment to social justice. I hold an LLM in Human Rights & Democratisation from the University of Pretoria and an LLB from the University of Malawi. I thrive in complex, high-pressure environments and believe in the power of collaborative leadership to drive systemic change.