Sekani Keith Bwalya - Simonini

Experienced human rights professional with a strong background in supporting the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and human rights mechanisms. Skilled in monitoring human rights and political developments, aligning national legal reforms and policies with international standards. Proficient in outreach, capacity-building, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to effectively promote human rights, gender equity and equality, disability inclusion, and access to justice.

• Enhanced Human Rights Advocacy: Strengthened government and Civil Society Organizations capacity to promote and protect human rights, developed Zambia's National Action Plan for Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, UNCT National Action Plan for Combatting Hate Speech and spearheaded human rights awareness through international commemorations and media training.
• Published Thought Leadership: Authored the influential study Advancing the Rights to Food and Education in Zambia (June 2024), now a pivotal tool for government and CSOs in accelerating human rights, particularly the rights to food and education.
• Legal Expertise and Policy Development: Supported legal reforms and policies aligning with international human rights standards; represented clients across all Zambian courts; conducted mediation; and drafted pivotal legal documents and reports.
• Capacity-Building Initiatives: Conducted workshops, training sessions, and advocacy campaigns for diverse stakeholders, including the judiciary, law enforcement, media, and academia, focusing on gender equity, disability inclusion, social protection, and access to justice.
• Academic and Community Engagement: Delivered lectures and tutored undergraduate law students, drafted educational booklets, and organized community workshops to raise awareness on human rights topics, fostering widespread understanding and action.

• United Nations System Staff College - Africa Sustainable Development Academy.
• Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights – Human Rights of Vulnerable Groups.
• Cambridge University – Key Essentials: Sustainable Development Goals and the Law.
• United Nations Mandatory Courses – Disability Inclusion; I know Gender; Human Rights Responsibilities; Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment; Preventing Fraud and Corruption; Ethics and Integrity; BSAFE; Information Security Awareness; Records and Information Management; and United to Respect.

My hobbies include reading, photography, traveling, hiking, and gardening, each of which has enriched my life in meaningful ways. Reading has sharpened my analytical and emotional intelligence—especially after reading 'Emotional Intelligence 2.0', which deepened my understanding of self-awareness and interpersonal relationships. Photography fuels my creativity and attention to detail, helping me capture the beauty of the world around me. Traveling and hiking, such as my unforgettable trek through the Dolomites in Italy, have taught me resilience, adaptability, and a profound appreciation for nature and diverse cultures. Gardening, on the other hand, has instilled in me patience and care, as I nurture growth both literally and figuratively. These hobbies reflect my curiosity, creativity, and a balanced approach to personal and professional growth.

Ms. Dutima Bhangwandin - Senior Human Rights Advisor (Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights).
Email: dutima.bhagwandin@un.org / Cell: +1 (914) 625-0222

Dr. Ioana Cismas - Co-Director (University of York). 

Email: ioana.cismas@york.ac.uk / Cell: +44(0) 1904325833

Ms. Catherine Jere - Senior Legal Officer (National Legal Aid Clinic for Women). 

Email: catherinejere@yahoo.com / Cell No: +260 979 405434