Celeste Ali-Akow

Celeste Ali-Akow is a seasoned Policy Analyst and Research Consultant with over 15 years of experience delivering data-driven insights and evidence-based solutions to governments, non-profit organizations, and international NGOs. She holds a Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University and an Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences in International Studies and Modern Languages from the University of Ottawa.

Celeste began her career in the Ontario Public Service as a Junior Policy Analyst in the Voluntary Sector Relations Unit, where she contributed to the development of the Ontario Volunteer Action Plan—an initiative aimed at strengthening volunteerism across the province. Celeste has consulted on several policy areas that impact marginalized communities including the passing of Bill 28, All Families Are Equal Act, 2016 as well as the United Nations Universal Periodic Review of Canada’s human rights performance, and various government programs supporting vulnerable populations.

As a Research Consultant with Health Canada, Celeste applied a Sex and Gender-Based Plus (SGBA+) framework to reduce stigma and identify knowledge gaps affecting marginalized groups. Currently, she serves as a Fundraising & Capital Campaign Specialist at Brazen Fundraising, where she contributes to digital strategy development and provides research support to enhance client impact. Her expertise lies in conducting comprehensive research for policy papers, research reports, program development, and evaluations, significantly contributing to the non-profit sector's community consultations and support initiatives.