Maya Patel

Background

About Maya Patel

I’m a development and communications professional who believes that storytelling is a powerful tool for systems change. My passion for equity — especially for women, children, and other vulnerable communities, shapes the mission-minded lens I lead with in both my personal and professional life. When I was diagnosed with dyscalculia, I was bullied and spent my childhood in special education classrooms. As a result, people may not have imagined that I would go on to manage federal accounts worth $21 billion for the US government or pursue my Master's at Cambridge. Dyscalculia shaped my commitment to education *and* ensuring equity for all. At a young age, I learned how to advocate for myself, and now I help organizations around the world do the same. Across sectors, from nonprofits to federal agencies, I’ve helped teams connect mission to message and message to resources. Whether I’m securing funding, managing digital campaigns, or facilitating strategic conversations, I focus on people first: What do they care about? How can we fundraise and communicate with clarity, empathy, and purpose? My core strengths include- Resource Mobilization: Led multiple successful fundraising efforts, including securing six-figure support for pandemic food relief efforts in India. Drove a successful $20M grant proposal- Strategic Communications: Grew digital engagement ahead of the 2024 U.S. elections for a non-profit - building likes, follows, and sustained engagement across platforms; led 10+ communications strategies for a consulting firm, leveraging strategic partnerships and earning a new client- Finance & CRM: Manage budgetary research and execution for federal accounts of $21 billion, ensuring policy compliance and accurate tracking- Cross-Team Collaboration: Align communications, development, and program teams to amplify impact and tell a unified story- Event Support & Coordination: Provided seamless in-person and virtual event support for high-profile events like the Global Digital Development Forum. Managed logistics, coordinated with facilitators and stakeholders, tested event technology, and ensured cross-team communication for smooth participant experience. I bring a global lens (and multilingual skills), a collaborative spirit, and commitment to equity to every organization I support. I’m especially energized by roles where communications and development aren’t siloed — but seen as key components of mission-building. Let’s connect if you're looking to grow your impact through thoughtful mission-minded storytelling and partnerships!