Profile Summary:
Ms. Denise Mubaiwa is a dynamic programme management specialist and researcher with over 10 years of experience advancing social and economic justice initiatives. As a research analyst at CRA Global Development, she harnesses her expertise in impact investing, monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL), and strategic partnerships to deliver sustainable development outcomes. With a proven track record in managing multi-million-dollar grants and developing innovative MEL frameworks, Denise excels at translating data-driven insights into impactful policies and strategies. Her work spans critical areas such as climate justice, women’s economic empowerment, and global financial reform, making her a key contributor to transformative projects across Africa.

Educational Background:

• Master of Commerce in Economics (In Progress) – Rhodes University, South Africa (2023 – Present)
• Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics – Rhodes University, South Africa (2013 – 2014)
• Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Organizational Psychology – Rhodes University, South Africa (2009 – 2011)

Professional Experience:

• CRA Global Development (2024 – Present)
  Research Analyst
  • Conducts economic research, including a World Bank project on Special Economic Zones in South Africa.
• Open Society – Africa (2022 – 2024)
  Shared Learning Officer (Hybrid)
  • Co-developed the Zambia Reserve Fund MEL framework and led grant selection processes for the 2022 open call.
  • Provided data-driven insights through advanced Excel analysis to guide strategic decisions.
• Open Society Foundation South Africa (2021 – 2024)
  Portfolio Manager (Remote)
  • Oversaw the economic recovery and agricultural revitalization portfolio, managing grants for 20+ partners.
  • Contributed to Open Society Africa’s learning framework development.
• Independent Research Consultant (2020 – 2021)
  • Delivered high-quality research outputs for various organizations, including reports and conference summaries.
• Nal’ibali Trust (2019 – 2020)
  Research and Advocacy Lead
  • Published a research paper on child literacy and represented the organization in national coalitions.
• Open Government Partnership (2018)
  Consultant (Africa and Middle East)
  • Conducted technical research on socio-economic trends across 15+ countries.
• Heinrich Boell Foundation (2017 – 2018)
  Research Assistant
  • Analyzed policies on gender-based violence to support advocacy efforts.
• Economic Justice Network (2014 – 2017)
  Program Officer, Tax Justice and Extractives
  • Led advocacy initiatives like the Alternative Mining Indaba for equitable tax systems.

Key Skills and Expertise:

• Impact measurement, grant management, and sustainable development strategies.
• Economic research and policy analysis using tools like Stata and Excel.
• Strategic partnership development and stakeholder engagement.
• Advocacy and leadership in social justice and philanthropy.

Languages:

• English: Proficient
• Xhosa: Intermediate

Achievements:

• Co-authored an article on grading systems with Open Society partners (2023).
• Holds certifications in Impact Investing (UCT) and Strategic Foresight (School of International Futures).

Ms. Denise Tashinga Stembiso Mubaiwa’s dedication to fostering sustainable impact, combined with her analytical prowess and collaborative approach, makes her an invaluable member of CRA Global Development. Her work continues to drive progress in economic equity and social innovation across the region.