Sky Naliaka

I am a fresh graduate in Development Studies and Philosophy with a passion for understanding how people, policies, and communities come together to solve real challenges. My journey so far has been shaped by a curiosity for people’s lived experiences and a desire to translate research and ideas into action. Through my internships and volunteer work, I’ve learned that impact often comes from small, consistent efforts; whether it’s helping organize a donor event, supporting health outreach, or connecting with communities on the ground. I am motivated to grow in spaces where I can contribute to meaningful change, learn from diverse teams, and use both my analytical and creative skills to support development initiatives.

My professional experience blends research, program support, and creative leadership. As an ESG Assistant at Ashanti Advisory, I support research and reporting for investors and partners in healthcare, agribusiness, and manufacturing, while tracking sustainability trends. At City Health Hospital, I worked as a Grants Research Intern, identifying funding opportunities and contributing to proposal writing for health programs addressing non-communicable diseases. With the Strathmore Institute for Family Studies and Ethics, I conducted research on family conflict, coordinated external communications, and wrote reports for the Face Forward podcast.

Beyond formal roles, I founded AltGalore Jewelry, a creative venture where I’ve built partnerships with wellness spaces and hotels, designed growth strategies, and led storytelling campaigns inspired by African heritage. I’ve also volunteered at New Life Home Trust, caring for children and supporting donor engagement activities. Together, these experiences have strengthened my skills in research, grant writing, sustainability, partnerships, communication, and project coordination, while also teaching me adaptability, teamwork, and the importance of empathy in development work.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies and Philosophy from Strathmore University, where I graduated with First-Class Honours. My studies gave me a strong grounding in sustainable development, policy analysis, and social research, alongside practical learning in urban planning and governance. I was an active member of the SDG Hub Committee, where I engaged with global development goals and community projects, and I consistently performed at a high level, earning a place on the Dean’s List. My coursework and research, including a study on the effectiveness of policy interventions in preventing non-communicable diseases in Mombasa County, deepened my skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and evidence-based problem solving.