Avanti completed her MS in Computer Science at Cleveland State University, where she developed a strong foundation in systems thinking and software design. Her experience spans building reliable system-level solutions and working on real world projects involving data processing and analysis. She has contributed to developing scalable applications and end-to-end workflows that bridge software engineering with data-driven problem solving. Through her academic and professional journey, Avanti has explored areas that combine system reliability with analytical insights, including applied work in data pipelines and natural language processing. She is passionate about leveraging technology and data to build impactful, efficient solutions for real-world challenges.

Jayanth holds a Master of Science in Computer Science from Cleveland State University, where he developed a strong foundation in software engineering, data driven systems, and analytical problem solving. With a focus on building efficient and scalable solutions, he brings a structured and detail-oriented approach to addressing complex challenges. Jayanth contributes to the team and clients by leveraging his technical expertise to support data-informed decision-making, enhance system reliability, and develop impactful solutions that align with organizational goals and drive meaningful outcomes.

Calistus holds two doctoral degrees: a PhD in Political Science from the University of Yaounde 2 Soa (Cameroon), where his research centered on diaspora studies, and a PhD in Development from the Africa Research University in Lusaka, Zambia, with a focus on International Development and Diplomacy. He has further strengthened his academic credentials through several certificate programs in conflict management, peacebuilding, and human rights.

Beyond his scholarly achievements, Calistus is the founding Director of the Cepress Policy and Development Institute at Cepress International University in Liberia. He also serves as APR Regional Editor for Central Africa and as a Research Reviewer at the African Center for Digital Transformation in Accra, Ghana. In addition, he contributes to the next generation of scholars as an external supervisor and examiner in the Department of Public, Constitutional and International Law at the College of Law, University of South Africa (UNISA).

Sandeep holds an MA in Politics and International Relations from Pondicherry University and a BA in Economics from Madras Christian College. His work focuses on geopolitical risk assessment, strategic intelligence, and threat monitoring, with particular expertise in Indo-Pacific regional power dynamics and global security developments. He applies sophisticated analytical frameworks, leveraging OSINT, geospatial analysis, and multi-source data synthesis to deliver actionable insights and scenario models for high-stakes consulting.

Professionally, Sandeep has served as a Geopolitical Intelligence Analyst and OSINT Tracker, producing daily intelligence briefs and conducting tactical operational planning. His experience includes tracking evolving conflicts and security developments across the Middle East, collecting and verifying open-source information to contribute to structured datasets for research initiatives. He has also led cross-sector research for the Office of a Member of Parliament and conducted deep-dive analysis into global trade dynamics and India's strategic foreign policy. Proficient in Power BI, Tableau, ArcGIS, and Maltego, he integrates data-driven visualization into complex risk reporting. Sandeep is a UGC NET Qualifier in Political Science and International Relations

Janina holds a BA in Sociology and a certificate in Criminology and the Criminal Justice System from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her research and advocacy center on international carceral reform, institutional human rights, and the dynamics of reentry. Drawing on her Cape Verdean heritage and international experience, she brings a global perspective to analyzing how legislative frameworks and social policies impact justice-involved populations.

A recipient of the W.E.B. Du Bois Outstanding Sociological Achievement Award and a Provost Undergraduate Research Fellow, Janina has a strong background in legislative monitoring and technical translation. She is committed to using mixed-methods research to translate complex sociological data into actionable policy briefs that bridge the gap between high-level discourse and the lived experiences of those within the justice system.

Currently based in Spain, Janina is pursuing an MA in Criminology at the Universidad de Granada, with plans to continue toward a PhD focused on the comparative analysis of international justice systems and institutional reform.

Rosa holds an MA in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at Uppsala University (Sweden) and a BA in European Studies at Maastricht University (Netherlands), and is currently pursuing a MA in International Politics at KU Leuven (Belgium),

Her previous work includes a comparative analysis of femicide in Greece and Mexico, the portrayal of Arabs in cinematography, and how Dutch bureaucratic language fails to be neutral. Across these projects, a common thread emerges: an attention to how systems, narratives, and institutions shape the lives of marginalized groups.

Driven by a lifelong her passion for human rights, particularly women's rights, Rosa remains firmly committed to bridging academic research with meaningful, real-world change.

Sivasankar holds a MA in Politics and International Relations from Pondicherry University and a BA in International Relations from the Central University of Kerala. His work focuses on geopolitical risk analysis, international security, trade diplomacy, and institutional governance, with particular attention to conflict dynamics and regional stability. He applies both qualitative and quantitative methods, leveraging OSINT, GEOINT, and multi-source data analysis to generate actionable insights and early warning.

Professionally, Sivasankar has worked as a Geopolitical Risk Intelligence Analyst and Intelligence Analyst, producing intelligence briefs, conducting scenario-based risk assessments, and monitoring global political and security developments. His experience includes tracking state and non-state actors, identifying early warning indicators, and supporting strategic decision-making, with a focus on Middle Eastern geopolitics, including the Iran-Israel conflict. He has also contributed to policy research on Indo-Bangladesh trade relations and governance frameworks. Proficient in Power BI, Tableau, Python, ArcGIS, and advanced Excel, he integrates data-driven analysis into his work. Sivasankar is a UGC NET Qualifier for continues studies toward his PhD.

Nancy has 20-years’ experience managing large-scale, overseas development projects. A proven practitioner in positive youth development, Nancy has designed projects to support vulnerable youth including community asset mapping, preventing violent extremism, psycho-social support, and scholarship programs promoting girls’ education, English learning, and entrepreneurship skills.

She has served as AMIDEAST Country Director in Jordan and as Chief of Party for a USAID-funded vocational education project in Macedonia. She has backstopped large USAID-funded programs such as the $75 million Education Reform Program in Egypt and the Revitalizing, Innovating, Strengthening Education (RISE) program working in earthquake affected areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in Pakistan. From proposal design through startup and implementation, she managed the $23 million USAID YouthPower Jordan activity and the $9 million USAID-funded Kosovo Up to Youth project.

Before working in international development, Nancy worked at Harvard University’s Program on Nonviolent Sanctions and Cultural Survival. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Trinity College and a Master of Arts in International Relations from Boston University.

Mrs. Taz Durham brings over 20 years of experience in human capital strategy, operations, and organizational development. She offers a systems-oriented, execution-focused perspective to the Advisory Board, having advised leaders across complex, multi-state and international organizations. Her work spans enterprise-wide initiatives in operational optimization, governance, compliance, culture transformation, and organizational design. Taz has led HR efforts across nonprofits, NGOs, and startups, successfully restructuring teams to improve efficiency, eliminate duplication, and establish clear career pathways while sustaining employee engagement and continuity.

Dr Marat Terterov is an acclaimed expert and practitioner of international relations with a DPhil from St. Antony’s College, Oxford University. The subject of his DPhil was Middle Eastern political economy, public enterprise reform, and privatization. Dr Terterov’s expertise has expanded over the last 20 years to include global energy investment processes, international energy security, and Eurasian geopolitics. He has been associated professionally with international publishing firms, think tanks, academic institutions, and business development forums since the late 1990s. Between 2008 and 2022, Dr. Terterov was an advisor, negotiator, and trainer for the Brussels-based Energy Charter Treaty whilst also lecturing at the University of Kent’s Brussels School of International Studies. He is currently the Principal Representative of the Brussels Energy Club ASBL, a corporate networking platform connecting energy professionals and enabling business projects across the global energy chain. He regularly contributes to public energy and geopolitics debates at high-profile international events. Dr Terterov’s detailed CV and list of publications can be accessed here.

Adam Supplee is an operations and finance professional with experience in financial planning, performance analysis, and organizational support. He holds an MBA from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, with expertise in forecasting, financial modeling, and data-driven decision-making. His background includes budgeting, forecasting, and performance reporting, with a strong focus on variance analysis, KPI tracking, and financial data integrity. He has supported cross-functional teams through project coordination, performance reporting, and operational analysis to improve efficiency and inform decision-making. With prior leadership experience in high-volume environments, Adam has managed cost structures, labor planning, and revenue performance, bringing a practical and execution-focused approach to organizational and project management.

Consuelo holds a PhD in Social Science from the National University of Cuyo in Mendoza, Argentina, an MA in Public Policy for Internet from the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO) Ecuador, and a BA in Journalism from the Central University of Ecuador (Quito). Her doctoral dissertation examines the interactions between news organizations and political and social actors in the generation and consolidation of opinion currents during periods of political and social upheaval in Ecuador.

With research methodologies focused on journalistic discourse analysis, with a pluralistic approach that combines the perspectives of the Argentinian Eliseo Verón and the French Michel Foucault and Pierre Bourdieu, Consuelo’s research rests at the intersection of communications, journalism, history, and political realities.

Prior to entering academia, Consuelo worked in print media with national outlets and international news agencies (Inter Press Service and Women's News Service). Since 2014, when she was invited to contribute to the investigative journalism portal, Consuelo has remained active in journalism as a columnist in Plan V. As a firm defender of human rights, in particular women and children, Consuelo works to support the cause of human rights organizations through her journalism. Recognized for her journalism, she is credited with introducing a gender perspective to the Ecuadorian national newspapers.

A selection of Consuelo’s publications include:

“The analysis of journalistic discourse oriented toward understanding social processes and phenomena,” Revista Latinoamericana de Metodología de la Investigación Social (2025).

"The Archaeology of Ecuadorian Democracy in the Opinion Discourse," Journal Historia Social y de las Mentalidades (2022).

"The Public Sphere in the Ecuadorian Political Blogosphere," an online ethnographic study published by FLACSO (2010).

Qurban is a PhD candidate in Journalism and Communication at Xi’an Jiaotong University, China. With over seven years of teaching experience as a senior lecturer at Badakhshan University, Afghanistan, he brings both academic and practical expertise to the field. His research explores the social and political implications of social media, particularly its influence on public diplomacy and polarization. His work has been published in leading journals such as Social Media and Society, Computers in Human Behavior, and the Journal of Information Technology and Politics, among others.

Joshua holds a joint BSc in Public Administration from the Universities of Münster and Twente and is an MA candidate in European Studies at KU Leuven. His work examines European governance, digital collaborative systems, and sustainable policy, with a specific focus on how ICTs influence modern public administration. His research includes projects examining digital collaborative governance in Spain, sustainable city planning, and contemporary digitalization challenges in supply chains. Across his work, Joshua prioritizes evidence-based analysis to bridge theoretical frameworks with practical administrative solutions.

Motivated by his commitment to civic engagement, Joshua aims to support policymakers and international organizations with data-driven insights that strengthen cross-border governance. Having studied and worked across Germany, France, and Belgium, Joshua leverages his background in international representation and stakeholder outreach to foster effective cooperation. In his free time, Joshua enjoys painting and learning about diverse cultures and languages.

Tope completed his doctorate in Comparative Politics and Development Studies at the University of Benin, and is a researcher affiliated with Lagos State University of Education, Nigeria. His research interest includes, but is not limited to, identity politics, violence, terrorism, crime and development studies.

Farooq is a Professor of Journalism and Head of the Journalism and Emerging Media program in the School of Communication and Media at Kennesaw State University, where he teaches and researches journalism, emerging media, and global communication. A former journalist with a decade of professional experience, his scholarship examines social and citizen media, language, politics, and society, with particular attention to Nigeria and the African diaspora. He is the author and editor of multiple books and peer reviewed articles on media, technology, and sociolinguistics, and he writes a widely read weekly public affairs column that engages contemporary socio-political issues. His work bridges academic inquiry and public discourse, reflecting sustained interests in media criticism, political communication and cultural analysis.

Ayhan holds an MA in International Conflict and Security from the Brussels School of International Studies at the University of Kent, where, as a recipient of the European Union Jean Monnet Scholarship, he focused on European Union counterterrorism policy.

He is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in European Studies at Dokuz Eylül University in Izmir, Turkey, with a research focus on European security, artificial intelligence, and AI regulation.

Lennart is currently pursuing a Master of Science in International Politics at KU Leuven. He previously earned a joint bachelor’s degree from University of Münster and University of Twente, complemented by a semester abroad at Sogang University. His research experience includes examining the origins of Eurosceptic voting in the 2024 European Parliament elections. Using voter-level data from the European Election Studies and party classifications from the Chapel Hill Expert Survey, he conducted a quantitative analysis to assess how social class, immigration attitudes, climate policy positions, and preferences for redistribution correlate with support for Eurosceptic parties across European countries.

Across German, Dutch, Belgian, and Korean academic settings, Lennart’s studies have emphasized political theory, international relations, security policies, European law, and European governance, cultivating an interdisciplinary and comparative perspective on global affairs.

Lennart is driven by a commitment to research that informs policy debates and aspires a to pursue a PhD.

Daiki is a first year Politics and International Relations student at University College London, in the United Kingdom. His academic interests include security and defense, and in particular counterterrorism. For his research, Daiki examines how foreign and domestic policies are (re)shaped by security, defense, and terrorism concerns. Some variables introduced into his analysis include international market indices and other domestic indicators.

Motivated by his strong interest in domestic and international security, Daiki aims to advance research on how political actors use their response to armed violence and instability as political tools.

Gabriel is Professor of Sociology in the Department of Sociology at the University of Botswana, Visiting Professor at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology, and Extraordinary Researcher at North-West University, South Africa. He earned his PhD in Sociology in 2011 from the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies (SPAIS) at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom. From 2020 to 2024, he served as one of the lead partners of the Spatial Methods for Urban Sustainability (SMUS) Project, a global initiative that brought together scholars from more than 50 countries. He currently coordinates the Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) programme at the University of Botswana.

His research interests span new media and religious practice, digital culture and society, multiculturalism and the politics of intercultural dialogue, the social implications of HIV/AIDS, and climate change communication. His current work focuses on digitalization and digital infrastructure in Southern Africa, as well as the decolonisation of research methodologies. Gabriel’s scholarship has appeared in leading international journals, including Sociology Compass, Journal of Southern African Studies, Journal of Asian and African Studies, Anthropology Southern Africa, Journal of Contemporary African Studies, Cogent Social Sciences, and the Heidelberg Journal of Religions on the Internet. He also serves as Associate Editor for Frontiers in Sustainable Resource Management and is a member of the Editorial Board of the African Journal of Pentecostal Studies (AJOPS). He is presently working on a book project that explores decolonisation and decolonial reflexivity.

Monika is currently pursuing an MA in Chinese Studies with a focus on International Relations. Her research centers on strategic policy and security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, with particular attention to strategic statecraft, grey-zone tactics, and the dynamics of influence between major and small powers. In particular, her research examines how policies support the autonomy, stability, and protection of vulnerable communities and states operating under asymmetric power relationships.

Motivated by a strong commitment to human rights, Monika works to raise public awareness of injustice in ways that encourage civic participation, inform policy debates, and strengthen demands for accountability, helping to protect communities facing disproportionate political or economic pressure.

Erick is currently pursuing an MA in International Politics at KU Leuven, focusing on energy, development, and cybersecurity. He is particularly interested in how historical political shifts in Latin America shape contemporary international relations, and has written on evolving political structures in Central and North America, as well as cybersecurity issues in North America, especially Mexico.

Born into a German–Mexican family and having lived in Osaka, Mexico, Germany, and Belgium, Erick has developed a distinctly global perspective that allows him to connect theory and policy with nuance and cultural sensitivity. Indeed, he is driven by a commitment to understanding how geopolitics and culture intersect, drawing on this diverse background to deepen his analysis of international security and development.

Farzanah holds a BA in Political Science and Sociology from the Ludwig Maximilians University in Munich and is completing an MA in International Relations and Diplomacy at the University of Trier. These programs included academic exchange to the University of Tokyo (Japan), Sungkyunkwan University (South Korea), and the Diplomatic Academy Vienna (Austria).

Her research interests include German foreign policy, feminist foreign policy, gender, political leadership rhetoric, Cross-Strait relations, post-conflict resolution, ethnic conflicts, and comparative government studies. For her master’s thesis, Farzanah examined Annalena Baerbock's leadership and Germany's feminist foreign policy adoption through a two-level game perspective.

Farzanah also gained research and program experience while working with the Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea and the Max Planck Society.

Farzanah is motivated by civic participation and remains active with political youth engagement throughout Europe, including the Jugend-Enquête-Kommission.

Katalina completed a BA in History with a minor in Great Books from Belmont Abbey College and an MA in History with a Latin American Studies certificate from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her academic interests include the colonial heritage and history of Latin America, with a particular focus on Uruguay and the Dominican Republic, specifically examining how past developments influence later changes in political, cultural, and social life. This includes Latin American notions of social belonging and exclusion as well as the politics of racial identity. Katalina’s research interests are deeply rooted in her personal experience, having spent part of her youth and life in Colombia, Uruguay, and the Dominican Republic.

While still an undergraduate, Katalina was selected to present her work, “A Mess Forgotten: A Neo-imperialist Inspection of the Uruguayan Dictatorship of 1973-1985 during America’s Cold War,” at the 2023 Graduate History Association Conference at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. During her graduate studies, Katalina went on to present “Casta painting: Colonial Mexico’s Identity through Miguel Cabrera” and “Frida Kahlo to Chicanas and Mexican American Communities in Texas,” both at the NAU History Scholar Symposiums in 2023 and 2024, respectively.


Select Publications

Lopez, K. (2025). ¿Quiénes somos?: A historical study of Afro‑Uruguayan and Charrúas in Uruguayan national identity (Master’s thesis). University of Texas, San Antonio.

The thesis examines Indigenous and Black identity movements in Uruguay from the eighteenth to the twentieth century. It draws on historiographical approaches as comparative methods to examine and analyze othered or subaltern communities.

Arthur holds a BA in English Literature and several specialized certificates and qualifications from his time as a naval officer, where he specialized in organizational readiness, crisis management, and systems management and optimization in high-stakes environments. 

Before joining GCPA, Arthur contributed to theater-level planning and coordination with the US European Command (EUCOM) and the US Central Command (CENTCOM). He also served as the Joint Force Liaison Officer to Expeditionary Strike Group 5 (ESG-5), providing tactical and strategic guidance to CENTCOM operators and leadership. At a command level, Arthur oversaw critical survivability architectures and training for over 300 personnel. Outside his military roles, Arthur also conducted public-sector research with the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia, focusing on public-private partnerships to improve city infrastructure.

As Director of Operations, Arthur provides leadership and strategic guidance for several programs. This includes ensuring that these programs meet GCPA Strategic Planning goals and client deliverables on time and within budget. He is also charged with oversight of the Marketing, Human Resources, and Information Technology departments and their personnel.   

Sharvani holds a BA in Business Administration (Marketing) from Avinash College of Commerce in Hyderabad and an MBA from CMR Technical Campus, and is currently pursuing an MS in Data Analytics at Clark University.

She has hands-on experience in operations and marketing analytics in the media industry, working extensively with Display & Video 360 (DV360) and Campaign Manager 360 (CM360) to build campaigns, analyze KPIs and performance trends, and turn them into insightful dashboards and reports.

She is proficient in Tableau, Python, SQL, and Machine Learning, with a strong focus on data visualization and storytelling.

Sharvani believes every dataset has a story and is motivated to turn raw data into clear, meaningful insights that both technical and non-technical audiences can act on to make better decisions and create real-world impact.

Emmanuel holds a B.Sc. in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he developed a strong research interest in asymmetric warfare, terrorism in Sub-Saharan Africa, and development studies.
He regularly partners with NGOs across the Global South to secure vital funding for disadvantaged children and youth, while conducting in-depth research and data analysis to support evidence-based policy. He has a proven record as a public speaker, researcher, and freelance writer, turning complex issues into clear, engaging content for diverse audiences.
A dedicated advocate for good governance, Emmanuel research is at the intersection of international security and development. He is committed to providing policymakers with accurate, actionable data that drives impactful, sustainable change, especially in conflict-affected and developing regions.

Rapha completed a BA in Social Psychology, an MA in Communications and Media, and an MA in Political Science. His work sits at the intersection of social psychology and public policy, with emphasis on public governance, stakeholder engagement, and the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals at the municipal level. He focuses on governance structures, intersectoral coordination, and urban sustainability, particularly SDG localization and data-driven public management, and has professional experience supporting public institutions, civil society initiatives, and policy-oriented research, where he bridges social analysis with strategic project management in complex governance environments.

Kevin holds a BA in Political Science with a minor in Africana Studies and Sociology from Montclair State University, as well as an MA in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations from Rutgers University. His academic interests lie at the intersection of political sociology, international relations, and state power, with a particular focus on social movements, civic engagement, and the ways domestic and international institutions shape political behavior, governance, and global outcomes.

His research and professional experience include work with the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus, where he engaged in policy research and legislative analysis related to equity, representation, and community impact. Kevin has also designed and facilitated civic education initiatives focused on democratic participation, voting rights, and political literacy through organizations such as the NAACP Youth and College Division. His scholarly work draws on comparative, historical, and international frameworks to examine how marginalized communities mobilize within and across state systems.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Kevin is an experienced educator, having taught English Language Arts and humanities at the secondary level, where he integrates critical theory, political thought, and global perspectives into his instruction. He is committed to producing and publishing rigorous academic research that contributes to scholarly discourse and informs policy debates, using research as a tool for global change, social justice, and effective international governance.

Esha holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy with a minor in Political Science from Rutgers University and is currently applying to law schools. Her academic interests include corporate and international law, as well as the study of voting behavior, political conflict, and historical tensions among states.

Her research interests examine the legal and political dimensions of cross-border disputes, with an emphasis on understanding the root causes of international conflict and identifying pathways toward cooperation and resolution. Esha approaches her work with a strong commitment to rigorous analysis and interdisciplinary inquiry, integrating legal reasoning with political and historical perspectives.

In addition to her academic and professional work, Esha is actively engaged in community service through volunteer work with animal shelters and local libraries.

Natalie is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and plans to continue her studies by earning a Juris Doctor. Her primary research interests include human rights, labor rights, and environmental and climate justice, with a focus on how legal and social systems can better protect vulnerable communities while supporting sustainable and equitable development. She aims to bridge research and advocacy by exploring policy solutions that uphold dignity, fairness, and environmental integrity, and believes that empowering individuals through education and civic participation is essential to achieving meaningful, long-term reform.

Yike is an undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, double majoring in Data Science and Economics. Her academic interests focus on data-driven policy analysis, political economy, and the use of quantitative methods to examine governance, regulation, and socio-economic development. She has worked with large-scale economic, policy, and institutional datasets through internships in finance, marketing analytics, and data science, gaining experience in data cleaning and integration, visualization, and translating quantitative results into policy- and strategy-oriented insights. In her current role, Yike supports the collection, organization, and cataloging of country-level datasets, helping to generate evidence-based analysis of political, economic, and regulatory dynamics across her assigned regions.

Solène is a third-year student at University College Utrecht, where she is pursuing studies in Political Science and History. Her academic interests focus on global governance, conflict, and human rights, with particular attention to how power, institutions, and communication shape international political outcomes.

Her academic and extracurricular experience reflects a strong commitment to applied engagement. Solène has volunteered with organizations supporting refugee integration and human rights advocacy, including Welkom in Utrecht and Move 4 Human Rights in The Hague, where she contributed to awareness initiatives and community-based events. These experiences have reinforced her interest in connecting policy analysis with on-the-ground social impact.

Solène has also participated in international and civic-oriented programs, including serving as a delegate representing South Africa on environmental issues at the Paris Area Conference Model United Nations. She completed a debate elective at the Institut de La Tour in Paris and previously interned at the Mayor’s Office in Berchères-sur-Vesgre, where she supported policy-driven administrative and research tasks.

Motivated by a strong interest in global politics and languages, Solène seeks to contribute to research and political analysis that informs real-world policy decisions. She is particularly interested in interdisciplinary approaches that link governance, human rights, and international cooperation.

Sana holds an MS in Business Analytics from the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington and a BS in Economics from the Lahore University of Management Sciences. Before joining GCPA, she served as Chief Data Officer at Diakob Enterprises. Sana brings to the organization extensive expertise in data analytics and in the tools used to manipulate and visualize diverse datasets. Guided by her curiosity, she leverages her technical skills to uncover operational inefficiencies through data analysis and to design solutions that enhance performance across a wide range of programs and initiatives.

Sarah is a junior at Northern Illinois University studying environmental policy and law, with double minors in journalism and political science. Her academic interests focus on the intersection of sustainability, governance, and political strategy, with particular attention to how legislation and regulatory systems shape environmental outcomes at local, national, and international levels.

Through her coursework and student involvement, Sarah has developed a holistic approach to environmental policy analysis that integrates rigorous research with effective communication. She represented Northern Illinois University at the 2025 Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress in Chicago, where she participated in sessions on global climate action and sustainable development and collaborated with peers on addressing complex sustainability challenges.

Sarah is also engaged in research with the NIU Environmental Studies Department, participating in the Undergraduate Research Cohesion Project. As part of this work, she has completed facilitator training in dialogue and empathetic listening and will lead structured conversations with students to examine community inclusivity and respect. Her research will involve data collection, analysis, and dissemination at the NIU Undergraduate Research Conference.

Committed to producing transparent, evidence-based work, Sarah aims to contribute to research initiatives advancing sustainable and inclusive policy solutions.

Nyashadzashe (“Shane”) holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Les Roches in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, and is currently completing a Master’s degree in International Relations and Digital Diplomacy at the United Nations Institute in Geneva. His academic and professional interests lie at the intersection of international trade facilitation, policy analysis, sustainable development, artificial intelligence governance, and multilateral diplomacy.

Shane currently serves as Global Program Advisor to the CEO of the International Sustainable Development Resource Centre (ISDRC), supporting diplomatic engagement, international partnership-building, and advocacy for policy reform to advance the Sustainable Development Goals. His work includes representing the organization at major international forums such as UNCTAD and the World Health Assembly, fostering intergovernmental cooperation with institutions including the United Nations, the European Union, and regional development banks, and contributing to crisis-response and program design initiatives. He previously served as a Senior Program Officer at ISDRC, supporting fellowship design, needs assessments, and data-driven program management. Shane also remains actively engaged with the Africa Youth Network for Sustainable Development, supporting youth-led development initiatives through strategic partnerships.

Across his work, Shane brings a multidisciplinary perspective grounded in diplomacy, policy analysis, and institutional coordination. He is motivated by a commitment to evidence-based policymaking, sustainable development, and the effective use of multilateral systems to address complex global challenges.

Nadia is currently in her third year of study in Politics and International Relations at the University of Bristol. Her academic interests span a broad range of policy areas, including environmental governance, international security, and global political dynamics.

Nadia approaches her studies with a strong curiosity about how political and institutional systems respond to complex global challenges. She is particularly interested in applying theoretical frameworks and empirical analysis to real-world policy problems, bridging academic inquiry with practical relevance.

Motivated by a desire to explore interdisciplinary perspectives, Nadia contributes to research initiatives that address contemporary international issues and support evidence-based decision-making. She is eager to develop her analytical skills through applied research and policy engagement as she continues to refine her academic and professional focus.

Molly holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Sheffield Hallam University. Her academic interests focus on gender and political representation, particularly as they relate to governance, political communication, and international development.

Her research experience includes an undergraduate dissertation examining media portrayals of female politicians following the 2024 UK General Election. Using thematic analysis, she explored how gendered and class-based narratives shape public perceptions of political legitimacy. She also completed a study abroad program at Aarhus University in Denmark, where she examined concepts of resilience, adaptability, and self-resilience in social and political contexts.

Molly is motivated by a commitment to advancing understanding of political representation and communication and is preparing for graduate study in this field. She seeks to contribute to research and policy initiatives that promote social change, equitable representation, and inclusive, responsive governance systems.

My name is Sienna Mose, and I am a senior at Missouri Baptist University dual majoring in
communications and criminal justice. I have a passion for all things government and politics
related. I love to run, write, and listen to music in my spare time and I have two adorable kittens
named Sushi and Yummy.

Sayan graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2024 with a BA in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) and a minor in French. His research interests center on understanding how states, institutions, and organizations interact on the global stage and believes that durable solutions must begin with a clear diagnosis of root causes.

This conviction has guided his pursuit of research in public policy, international economics, and security studies, where he combines normative reasoning, institutional analysis, and quantitative methods to trace causal chains and uncover structural drivers. He emphasizes rigorous evidence, clear argumentation, and accessible presentation so research can meaningfully inform policymakers, practitioners, and the public.

His training in French supports engagement with Francophone scholarship and international stakeholders, and he seeks opportunities to contribute to research teams and policy organizations that value multidisciplinary inquiry and the translation of analysis into actionable recommendations.

Anzhelika holds a Master of Science in Public Policy from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a specialization in American Politics from Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine. Her research interests focus on comparative politics, European Union enlargement policy—particularly in the Western Balkans and Ukraine—and U.S. economic policymaking, with broader attention to policy continuity, feedback mechanisms, political behavior, and institutional governance dynamics.
Her research experience includes an undergraduate thesis examining North Macedonia’s foreign policy trajectory toward EU membership and a master’s thesis analyzing the political and economic implications of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 as a case study in policy durability. Across her work, Anzhelika employs both qualitative and quantitative methods, drawing on legislative records, government data, and empirical analysis to assess how political institutions evolve and how policy decisions generate long-term effects.
Anzhelika’s work is grounded in a commitment to strengthening democratic governance and advancing evidence-based policymaking. She has engaged in academic exchange and policy dialogue through participation in European political summits and through her studies at the University of Salzburg, Austria, where she focused on gender and power studies, diplomatic negotiation, and interstate conflict. Fluent in five languages, she brings a strong cross-cultural perspective to multidisciplinary research and international policy initiatives.

Cameron holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of South Florida. His academic interests focus on the structure of empire and the ways cultures interact with and are shaped by imperial systems, with particular attention to Classical Greece and Rome, Imperial and Soviet Russia, the British Empire from the Second Empire through decolonization, and the United States.

During his undergraduate studies, Cameron was actively involved in the University of South Florida’s chapter of the John Quincy Adams Society, a foreign policy organization grounded in realist theory and the principle of restraint. He advanced to serve as Communications Director, where he supported strategic messaging and public engagement initiatives and led the acquisition and deployment of a strategy-based diplomatic simulation tool to facilitate scenario-driven discussions on international security, alliance politics, and crisis management.

While an undergraduate, Cameron also contributed to the university’s Global and National Security Institute (GNSI) by serving as an official minute-taker for several academic conferences.

He is driven by his passion for producing accessible, objective, and analytically grounded research that informs policymaking and enriches civic participation.

Grace holds a dual Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Law, Societies, and Justice from the University of Washington. Her academic interests lie at the intersection of comparative law, civil liberties, and foreign policy, with a focus on how legal and institutional frameworks shape state behavior and civilian outcomes in conflict settings.

Her research experience includes independent studies examining civilian casualties and civil–military relations during the U.S. intervention in the Syrian Civil War (2014–2016), in which she conducted counterfactual analyses comparing intelligence capabilities and civil–military dynamics under the Obama and Trump administrations. She has also researched Sino-Russian energy relations, analyzing energy security and supply-chain geopolitics through a neorealist theoretical lens and drawing on historical and empirical evidence.

Grace has participated in international academic exchanges through the Council on International Education Exchange (CIEE) Open Campus program, completing coursework in Singapore and Rome. In Singapore, she collaborated on a research project examining public perceptions of national, civic, and ethnic identity. She is motivated by a commitment to rigorous, comparative research that informs policy debates on security, governance, and international law.

Ismaheel holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and International Studies from the Federal University Lokoja, Nigeria. His academic interests focus on governance in precolonial, colonial, and postcolonial Africa, with particular attention to the historical roots of political behavior and the role of community dynamics in shaping broader security and governance outcomes.

His research experience includes projects examining the evolution of indigenous governance under British colonial rule, the historical relationship between global energy systems and political change, and the role of historical awareness in Nigeria’s development trajectory. Across his work, Ismaheel applies historically grounded analysis to understand how institutions and civic identities influence contemporary political outcomes.

Ismaheel is motivated by a strong commitment to evidence-based research and seeks to contribute to policy-oriented analysis that bridges historical insight with practical decision-making. He aims to support policymakers and practitioners by providing contextually informed research that strengthens governance, security outcomes, and civic awareness.

Claire is pursuing a BA in Political Science and Human and Organizational Development at Vanderbilt University. Her research interests center on public policy and institutional dynamics and how they shape social and economic outcomes. She has contributed to research projects examining the impacts of policy on social and economic outcomes, including large-scale quantitative analyses of global security and state capacity. Claire is driven by a commitment to producing research that informs just and effective policy decisions, particularly for communities historically underrepresented in the decision-making process.

Will holds a BA in Political Science from East Carolina University and an MA in Environmental Law and Policy, with a specialization in energy policy, from Vermont Law and Graduate School. His experience spans policy analysis, strategic communication, campaign field organizing, and grant writing. Will is driven by a commitment to developing innovative, sustainable, and equitable policy solutions. He pairs rigorous policy research with active community engagement to bridge the gap between technical solutions and public understanding. Will champions education as a key driver of environmental progress.

Chandana completed her MS in Advanced Data Analytics from the University of North Texas (Denton) and a BS in Engineering in Biotechnology from Visvesvaraya Technological University (Bengaluru). Prior to her graduate studies, Chandana worked for Merck (India) where she developed predictive analytics models utilizing time-series analysis and machine learning algorithm. With a background bridging biotechnology and advanced analytics, she approaches problems with both scientific rigor and creative curiosity, unearthing patterns that others might overlook. Skilled in predictive modeling, statistical analysis, and visualization tools like Tableau and Python, Chandana makes her work and findings accessible through creative dashboards and visualizations. Indeed, she is driven by the belief that every dataset contains a narrative worth telling—one that can empower civic participation and guide decision-makers in creating positive real-world impact.

Likhitha Marrapu completed her MS in Data Science at Kent State University, where she developed a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and applied statistics. Her area of focus includes machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and data-driven decision in the health and social impact domains. She has co-authored and published research on deep learning models for blood cell classification in the Springer Nature’s FICC 2025 series and completed applied projects in sentiment analysis, time-series forecasting, and business-intelligence. Likhitha is passionate about working with real-time tactical data to generate actionable insights that support evidence-based decisions to create meaningful change in the world.

Anuranjani Thota holds an MS in Data Science from Kent State University where she curated a rigorous foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science and its application to real-world decision-making through modeling and defensible storytelling. She specializes in transforming complex datasets into actionable insights—leveraging Python, SQL, and R for data engineering and modeling, and Tableau/Power BI to craft visual narratives. Her work spans predictive modeling, causal inference, and experiment design, with a principled focus on transparency, reproducibility, and measurable impact. Anu supports research at all levels by developing analytical frameworks and the visualizations that help to illuminate risks and opportunities in support of policy making and strategic forecasting.

Sofia is pursuing a Master’s degree in International Management at the International University of Monaco, focusing on global strategy and geopolitics. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economy and Society from Lund University, with a concentration in global economic history, informatics, finance, and international economics. Her research interests lie at the intersection of global business strategy, political economy, and corporate ethics. For her bachelor’s thesis, Sofia collaborated with Transparency International to examine compliance and ethical governance practices in a multinational corporation. She is driven by a commitment to international development and ethical leadership and is particularly interested in how geopolitical dynamics shape corporate and policy decision-making..

Awaiting Bio

Dr. Robert Zaman is Chairman, President, and CEO of the Global Consortium of Political Analysts (GCPA). Prior to joining GCPA, he oversaw research at the Legislative Branch of the United States Government and served as a senior advisor to NATO Special Operations Forces, supporting statebuilding efforts in Afghanistan.

Before serving in these roles, Robert was a Senior Fellow with the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS). Based in Kabul, he supported the local Afghan government and the international community in policymaking. He went on to complete research in China, North Africa, and elsewhere.

Robert also served in the United States military as an enlisted cryptologist before being selected for commissioning and appointment as a naval intelligence officer. His military campaigns include Operation Deny Flight and Provide Promise during the Yugoslav Wars, Operation Active Endeavour, supporting NATO operations aimed at deterring and disrupting terrorist activity and enhancing security across the Mediterranean, and the Global War on Terrorism.

Robert completed his undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Maryland (College Park, Maryland), graduate studies in International Relations at the University of Kent (Canterbury, UK), doctoral studies in International Conflict Analysis at the Brussels School of International Studies (Brussels, Belgium), and Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at the Robert H. Smith School of Business (Washington, DC).

A student of Economics and Political Science at the University of Bologna who is passionate about writing and advocating for social justice. Eager to explore the intersections of economics, politics, and human rights, with aims of contributing to meaningful change through research, policy, and public engagement.

​

John holds a PhD in Law from the University of Kent (United Kingdom), an LLM in Public International Law from Leiden University (Netherlands), a JD (cum laude) from Creighton University School of Law, and a BA (magna cum laude) from the University of Notre Dame. His doctoral research on genocide prevention and state responsibility was published as a monograph and has been widely cited in international legal scholarship.

John’s research interests rest at the intersection of the law of armed conflict, international humanitarian law, human rights law, and issues of legitimacy and accountability in conflict and post-conflict settings.

John previously served with the Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), supporting trial and appellate teams in cases involving war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide arising from the Balkan conflicts. His professional background also includes judicial clerkship experience, complex litigation practice, and senior academic appointments in public international law.

As Director of Research, John oversees a number of programs, including Project DESMA (Digital Ethnography and Social Media Analytics). At GCPA, Dr. Heieck focuses on ensuring that research and analytic products are methodologically sound, legally informed, and strategically relevant. He specializes in translating complex legal and political analysis into clear, decision-useful guidance for clients operating in contested, high-stakes environments.

Selected Publications:

K.J. Heller & J. Heieck, “Mistrial: International Criminal Courts and Tribunals,” Max Planck Encyclopedia of International Procedural Law (Oxford University Press 2020).

J. Heieck, A Duty to Prevent Genocide: Due Diligence Obligations among the P5 (Edward Elgar 2018).

J. Heieck, “The Responsibility Not to Veto Revisited” in R. Barnes and V. Tzevelekos (eds.), Beyond Responsibility to Protect: Generating Change in International Law (Intersentia Publishing 2016).

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Ahad holds an MA in Sociology from Jawaharlal Nehru University and served as a Visiting Research Fellow with the Department of International Development at the University of Oxford.

His research examines the entanglements between militarization and humanitarianism, the political dimensions of aid, and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in conflict-ridden nations, with a particular focus on Afghanistan.

Ahad previously worked for the Office of the Chief Executive of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and as a researcher and project lead at the Afghan Institute of Strategic Studies.

​

​

​

​

Said Saddiki is a professor of international relations and international law at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University (USMBA), Fez, Morocco, where he has headed the Department of Public Law since 2023. Saddiki is also a Senior Fellow at the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis (MIPA) and Co-Chair of the Research Committee on Migration and Citizenship of the International Political Science Association (IPSA). He is the author of six books, including World of Walls: Structure, Roles and Effectiveness of Separation Barriers (2017). He has published several articles in peer-reviewed journals, book chapters and policy papers. He has received a number of international awards and grants, including Fulbright Visiting Scholarship, Research Fellowship at the NATO Defense College in Rome and the Arab Prize in the Social Sciences and Humanities. He is currently interested in border walls/fences, foreign policy analysis, international migration, and the Western Sahara dispute.

​

Prof. Michael Briguglio is Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Malta, where he coordinates the MA programme in Social Impact Assessment. Michael serves as Associate Editor of the International Social Science Journal, is on the Editorial Board of SAGE Open Sociology, and is Review Editor in Urban Ecology - Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution. He is Science Communication Coordinator and Core Group Member of the EU COST Action RethinkBlue, and is a Lead Author for the upcoming Second Mediterranean Assessment Report (MAR2) by the Mediterranean Experts on Climate and Environmental Change (MedECC). He is a founding member of the Malta Sociological Association, convenes the Faculty of Arts' Works in Progress Seminar, and hosts discussion programmes on Campus 103.7. He is also an opinion columnist for The Malta Independent and a member of the International Association for Impact Assessment. Beyond academia, he is a rock drummer and former local councillor, politician, and activist.

Dr. Indira Rampersad holds a Ph.D. in Political Science, a Master of Philosophy in Latin American Literature, a Master of Philosophy in International Relations, a Bachelor of Arts in Language in Literature, a postgraduate Diploma in International Relations and a Certificate in Translation from Spanish to English. She has also obtained an LEC from the Hugh Wooding Law School, Trinidad and Tobago, an LPC and an LLM from Staffordshire University, UK and an LLB from the University of London. Dr. Rampersad has been awarded two Fulbright scholarships for study in the United States, one at the Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, to examine the American Political System, the other to undertake her Ph.D. in Political Science at the University of Florida, Gainesville, where she majored in International Relations and minored in Public Policy. Her doctoral dissertation focused on American foreign policy to Cuba on which she has published and presented at many international academic and non-academic forums. Her research interests now extend to Latin American and Caribbean Politics and International Relations, American Foreign Policy, crime and violence in the Caribbean, the Caribbean Court of Justice, International Law, Employment Law and Caribbean Constitutional Law. She is co-author of the book “The Jurisprudence of the Caribbean Court of Justice and Regional Integration” and author of several publications on Youth, Crime and Gangs in the Caribbean. Dr. Rampersad has served as a Commissioner of the Equal Opportunity Commission of Trinidad and Tobago. She has been an Election Observer with the Organization of American States in El Salvador, Grenada ad Guyana. She is also a qualified Attorney-at-law and a regular media commentator on national, regional and international issues. She currently serves as President of the West Indies Group of University Teachers (WIGUT) and Head of the Department of Political Science at The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago where she is also a Lecturer in Political Science/International Relations and International Law.

​

​

Vanessa is a specialist in conflict and security studies, with expertise in conflict analysis, mediation, peacebuilding, and gender-sensitive governance, particularly in the context of EU integration and enlargement. She has over a decade of international experience as a researcher, lecturer, and program coordinator working in conflict-sensitive and post-conflict environments across Georgia, Türkiye, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the wider European neighborhood. She is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Politics and International Relations at Civitas University in Warsaw, Poland. She previously served as Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator at the Social Sciences University of Ankara (2015–2019), where she also managed international training initiatives in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Dr. Tinker holds a Ph.D. in International Conflict Analysis from the University of Kent (UK), as well as degrees from San Diego State University and Franklin University Switzerland. Her research and teaching focus on democratic resilience, institutional transformation, and conflict management, drawing on International Relations, political sociology, and gender studies Her recent publications include work on democratic backsliding and EU enlargement in Eastern Europe, including articles in Reality of Politics (2025) and Przegląd Europejski / European Studies Quarterly (2024).

​