Eline Versluys

Background

About Eline Versluys

I am a dedicated leader with 20+ years of experience advancing education, gender equality and human rights across Africa and globally. My work spans across strategic leadership, program management, policy advice and research. I have partnered with governments, UN agencies and civil society to promote girls' education and gender equality, empowering young people to fulfil their dreams and reach their full potential. Currently, I lead the Gender at the Centre Initiative (GCI) at UNICEF/UNGEI, a $12M multi-stakeholder partnership supporting 11 African countries to advance gender equality through education. Over the years, I have forged global alliances, mobilized resources, and advised ministers, donors, and grassroots activists to create inclusive, evidence-based solutions that challenge harmful gender norms and provide safe, equal learning opportunities for all. Highlights of my career include: • Supporting 14 African governments to develop and endorse the Freetown Manifesto—the first-ever political commitment on gender-transformative leadership in education. • Steering multi-country programs and research on gender equality in and through education. • Leading the development of analytical tools such as the Gender Equality in Education Snapshot (GES), now adopted by multiple African countries. • Mobilizing millions in new resources from governments and donors to expand gender- transformative initiatives. • Publishing research and policy analysis in outlets including The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health and L'Harmattan. I hold a PhD in Anthropological Linguistics and believe in the power of evidence and storytelling. A committed feminist, I am passionate about fostering intergenerational solidarity to fight inequality in all its forms—gender discrimination, racism, colonialism, homophobia, and beyond. I love connecting people to make the world a more equal, resilient and joyful place!