Salama Chongwony

International relations and development professional with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations and over three years of experience supporting regional economic integration, diplomacy, youth leadership, and stakeholder coordination. Experienced in policy research, government liaison, protocol support, administrative coordination, and preparation of analytical reports across public institutions, diplomatic missions, and private sector organizations. Demonstrates strong capacity to engage diverse stakeholders, support high-level meetings and conferences, and translate policy and governance frameworks into practical implementation support.

Brings proven communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and leadership experience, with a strong focus on regional cooperation, governance, and youth empowerment initiatives.

Youth Mentor - Africa Leadership Forum - Nairobi, Kenya

(2023-03)

• Providing structured mentorship to young professionals and students on leadership development, career planning, and ethical governance.
• Facilitating group and one-on-one mentorship sessions focused on civic responsibility, accountability, and personal effectiveness.
• Guiding mentees in goal setting, decision-making, and skills development aligned with leadership competencies.
• Supporting youth engagement initiatives through coordination of mentorship activities, forums, and workshops.
• Contributing to development of mentorship content, discussion guides, and session frameworks used in leadership programs.
• Monitoring mentee progress and providing continuous feedback to support personal and professional growth.
• Collaborating with program coordinators to review mentorship outcomes and improve program delivery.
• Promoting inclusive leadership and youth empowerment through active participation in leadership initiatives.

Economic Integration Officer - Ministry of East African Community, ASALs & Regional Development - Nairobi, Kenya

(2022-05 - 2023-02)

• Supported implementation of regional economic integration initiatives aligned with East African Community frameworks and national priorities.
• Conducted policy research and analysis on trade facilitation, non-tariff barriers, and regional investment protocols.
• Prepared economic briefs, technical reports, and policy summaries for senior government officials and stakeholders.
• Coordinated bilateral and multilateral meetings, including agenda preparation, documentation, and follow-up tracking.
• Monitored progress of EAC integration commitments and compiled implementation status reports.

Diaspora Officer - Optiven Limited - Nairobi, Kenya

(2019-09 - 2019-12)

• Managed diaspora client engagement activities and provided administrative and logistical support for international clients.
• Coordinated travel logistics, accommodation, and site visits for visiting diaspora investors and partners.
• Supported execution of strategic marketing initiatives targeting diaspora and international markets.
• Maintained professional correspondence with clients, partners, and internal teams to ensure timely communication.
• Assisted senior management with preparation of presentations, reports, and briefing materials.

Researcher / Political Officer Intern - Indian High Commission - Nairobi, Kenya

(2019-05 - 2019-08)

• Conducted research on foreign policy, regional security, and infrastructure development relevant to bilateral relations.
• Drafted diplomatic communiqués, briefing notes, and background papers for senior diplomatic staff.
• Supported organization of diplomatic events, official visits, and high-level meetings in line with protocol standards.
• Assisted with consular and administrative duties while adhering to mission procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Engaged in inter-ministerial communication and coordination with host-government institutions.

Bachelor of Arts - International Relations and Diplomacy - Technical University of Kenya (2019)

Training - 7 Habits of Effective Leadership - Africa Leadership Forum (2019)

Diploma - Leadership and Governance - ICY Africa (2017)

Certificate - O-Level Certificate (IGCSE – Equivalent to KCSE) - Matz Tuition Centre (2015)

Certification - Proficiency in Information Technology - National Institute of Technology (NIT) - India (2014)