Khanyo Farise

With over 15 years of experience in human rights law and advocacy, I am a proven leader in leveraging research and strategic campaigning to advance human rights globally. My expertise spans across human rights law, research, leadership, and international advocacy, and I am passionate about leading teams to create impactful change.

Key Achievements & Expertise:

• Leadership & Strategic Oversight: Directed crisis response strategies, country and thematic strategies, and high-level representation at major international forums, including the African Union and UN mechanisms.
• Human Rights Law & Research: Specialized in intersectional human rights research, including freedom of expression, equality, non-discrimination, and civil and political rights.
• Campaign Management: Led successful human rights campaigns across multiple regions, including Southern Africa, with a focus on LGBTI rights, economic, social, and cultural rights, and civic space.
• Team Leadership & Capacity Building: Managed multi-functional teams, ensuring continuous development through tailored capacity-building programs and a focus on team well-being.
• Resource Mobilization: Secured various grants, contributing to the sustained impact of key human rights initiatives.
• Publications & Advocacy: Authored and supervised numerous impactful publications on human rights issues affecting women, LGBTI communities, and marginalized groups across Africa.

Educational Qualifications & Merit Awards:

LL.M in Rule of Law for Development, Loyola University Chicago, Magna Cum Laude (U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Merit Scholarship)

• LL.M in International and Comparative Law, Trinity College Dublin (Government of Ireland Merit Scholarship)
• LL.B, Nelson Mandela University (Golden Key Honour Society for top-performing students)

Dux Award, Russell High School (2005)

Key Skills:

• Campaign Leadership & Strategic Advocacy
• Crisis Management & High-Level Representation
• Team Leadership, Capacity Building, & Mentoring
• Resource Mobilization & Grant Making
• International Relations & Stakeholder Engagement 
• Human Rights Law & Legal Research

I am seeking opportunities to further apply my skills and experience to drive human rights change on a global scale, particularly through leadership in impactful teams and strategic campaigning.