Dynamic Leadership for Social Impact and Fundraising

Revd. Dr. Debra M. C. Chidakwa

Dynamic Leadership Organizational Development Strategic Partnerships Fundraising Executive

+1-346-***-**** +44-789*-******

*************@*****.***

Authorized to work in the USA

Professional Profile

Dynamic and visionary organizational leader with over 20 years of international experience in women’s empowerment, nonprofit leadership, fundraising, strategic development, and community transformation across the UK, USA, and Africa. Recognized for building impactful programs, cultivating strategic partnerships, and leading initiatives that empower women and vulnerable communities toward sustainable social and economic development. An accomplished strategic thinker and organizational developer with proven expertise in fundraising, donor cultivation, stakeholder engagement, and program expansion. Skilled in designing and implementing initiatives that strengthen leadership capacity, promote inclusion, and create long-term community impact.

Known for exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to inspire diverse teams, build trusted relationships, and engage communities, donors, faith-based organizations, and institutional partners. Passionate about advancing women in leadership, mentoring emerging leaders, and advocating for social justice, dignity, and equal opportunities. Core Competencies

• Women’s Leadership & Empowerment

• Organizational Leadership & Development

• Strategic Planning & Vision Implementation

• Fundraising & Donor Relationship Management

• Community Development & Outreach

• Partnership Building & Stakeholder Engagement

• Public Relations & Community Advocacy

• Leadership Coaching & Mentorship

• Program Design & Capacity Building

• Team Leadership & Staff Development

• Public Speaking & Motivational Leadership

• Conflict Resolution & Relationship Management

• Social Justice & Inclusion Advocacy

• Faith-Based & Nonprofit Leadership

• Cross-Cultural Communication & Collaboration

Professional Experience

Ordained Minister / Clergy / Accredited Local Preacher The Methodist Church 2008 – Present

• Provide visionary leadership in developing faith-based and community initiatives focused on women’s empowerment, leadership development, and social transformation.

• Lead strategic outreach programs addressing domestic violence, homelessness, family wellbeing, and community inclusion.

• Build strong partnerships with community organizations, leaders, and stakeholders to strengthen program impact and sustainability.

• Support fundraising campaigns, donor engagement activities, and community resource mobilization initiatives.

• Mentor women and emerging leaders through coaching, counseling, leadership development, and advocacy programs.

• Deliver impactful public speaking engagements, workshops, and leadership seminars across multicultural communities.

Hospital/ Hospice Chaplain

St Bartholomew's Hospital Present

• Provide compassionate leadership and emotional support to patients, families, and healthcare teams within culturally diverse environments.

• Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration while promoting dignity, inclusion, and holistic wellbeing.

• Facilitate relationship-building and effective communication among patients, families, and healthcare professionals during critical life situations.

• Advocate for compassionate care practices that support vulnerable individuals and families.

Prison Chaplain

USA 2019 – 2022

• Developed rehabilitative and empowerment-focused support programs promoting personal growth, accountability, and reintegration.

• Mentored vulnerable individuals, including women and families affected by incarceration, through counseling and leadership support.

• Fostered trust-based relationships that encouraged resilience, hope, and community restoration.

• Collaborated with correctional teams and community partners to strengthen support systems and rehabilitation outcomes.

Youth Director

United Methodist Church 2015 – 2017

• Directed youth leadership and empowerment programs designed to build confidence, life skills, and leadership capacity among young people.

• Organized mentorship initiatives, outreach activities, leadership retreats, and educational programs.

• Managed volunteers, coordinated community partnerships, and oversaw program planning and implementation.

• Encouraged leadership development among young women through mentorship and community engagement.

Justice of the Peace

Bow County Court 2009 – 2015

• Applied sound judgment, leadership, and interpersonal skills in legal and community decision-making processes.

• Demonstrated integrity, fairness, and professionalism while serving diverse communities.

• Strengthened advocacy and conflict resolution skills through public service and community engagement.

Administrator / Civil Servant

Government Legal Department UK 1993 – 1998

• Managed administrative and operational functions supporting legal and government services.

• Demonstrated strong organizational, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

• Supported compliance, policy implementation, and efficient case management processes. Education

Ph.D. in Education and Christian Leadership

Grand Canyon University Arizona, USA 2022

Ph.D. in Divinity and Christian Counselling

United National Ministry Houston, Texas USA- 2023 Masters in Christian Leadership (Ethics Focus)

Grand Canyon University Arizona, USA 2017

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) -Wesley House Theological Federation – United Kingdom -2019

Hospice Chaplain Certificate - Wesley House Theological Federation – United Kingdom -2022

Theological and Christian Formation Ordination Certificate _ The Methodist Church 2-12 Bachelor’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice

University of East London -United Kingdom 1997

Diploma in Theology and Christian Formation

Wesley House Theological Federation / Anglia Ruskin University United Kingdom 2012 Certifications & Professional Development

• Certificate in Hospital Management & ICU Care (2025) -USA

• Certificate in Christian Counselling (2023) -USA

• Advanced Para-Legal Certification – UK

• Advanced Practical Immigration Practitioner Certification – UK

• Information Technology & Digital Electronics – City & Guilds London Institute -UK Board & Community Leadership

• Chief Fundraiser and Board Member, Epiphany Life Centre USA2017 – Present

• Assistant Spiritual Director for Women, Kairos Outside -USA-2016-2017

• Community Event and Homelessness & Shelter Coordinator – UK

• Housing Advisor & Immigration Consultant – UK

• Volunteer Chaplain for Elderly Care Homes – UK & USA Languages

• English (Fluent)

• Willingness to learn new languages

References

Available upon request.

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