Pesalema Gonakgang
@pesalemagonakgang
Dynamic youth and community practice specialist with proven program management skills.
What I'm looking for
I am a dynamic and results-driven Youth and Community Practice specialist with over 6 years of experience in social development and public health. My expertise lies particularly in HIV/AIDS, youth empowerment, and gender equality. I have a proven track record in program management, resource mobilization, and fostering partnerships with government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations.
Throughout my career, I have successfully implemented strategic initiatives and provided technical support to advance adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health and rights (ASRHR). My exceptional skills in leadership, problem-solving, and cross-cultural communication have enabled me to drive impactful programs that empower youth and improve their social and economic status.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Adolescent Girls and Young Girls Program Officer
African Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Partnerships (ACHAP)
Jan 2024 - Present (1 year 11 months)
Provided technical support, coordinated capacity development, and managed programs related to youth and gender to enhance access to quality reproductive, child, and maternal health services. Promoted gender equality and youth empowerment, aligning with national and international ASRHR policies.
Business Development Officer
African Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Partnerships (ACHAP)
Feb 2023 - Present (2 years 10 months)
Drove growth and strategic partnerships to support the organization's mission of combating HIV/AIDS. Identified and cultivated relationships with potential donors, partners, and stakeholders, ensuring alignment with ACHAP’s mission and goals.
Guest Facilitator
University of Botswana
Jan 2022 - Present (3 years 11 months)
Prepared and delivered tutorials online, responding to course-related queries raised by learners. Ensured effective online learning environment and student engagement.
Graduate Student Assistant - Disability Support Services Unit
University of Botswana
Jan 2022 - Present (3 years 11 months)
Assisted the department with student records and assignments, participating in the assessment process and providing feedback to students. Facilitated tests and examinations, and assisted students individually or in small groups.
Consultant
Loago Counseling and Consultancy Center
Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 11 months)
Provided psychotherapy to clients, both individuals and families, and facilitated research and consultancy services to corporates. Conducted corporate health and wellness assessments, including individual and group staff consultations and team building activities.
Program Officer
University of Botswana
Mar 2020 - Present (5 years 9 months)
Coordinated the training of field teams, supported reporting, and oversaw logistics for the COVID-19 Response Team in the South Region. Ensured efficient execution of response efforts and accurate data collection.
Adolescent Girls and Young Women Officer
African Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Partnerships (ACHAP)
Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 11 months)
Provided professional technical, operational, and administrative assistance for ACHAP Adolescents and Young People HIV programmes/projects. Supported program development through research and provided updates on trends to inform project planning and successful result-based implementation.
Social Welfare Intern
Department of Social Welfare and Community Development
Jan 2017 - Present (8 years 11 months)
Assessed individuals with disabilities and provided psychosocial support, designing programs and activities for them. Engaged in case presentations, co-led or led group psychotherapy/psycho-education sessions, and conducted client intake/assessment.
Student Assistant
University of Botswana
Jan 2015 - Present (10 years 11 months)
Assisted students with disabilities with mobility around the university and collected educational material from lecturers. Provided scribing and reading services, and assisted with research and typing of assignments.
Rehabilitation Counsellor Trainee
India Jalandhar
Jan 2014 - Present (11 years 11 months)
Created therapeutic alliances with patients, encouraging their recovery and helping them develop relapse prevention plans. Met with family members to provide guidance and counseling, and conducted individual and group counseling sessions.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
University of Cape Town
Post Graduate Certificate, Advanced Project Management
Currently pursuing a Post Graduate Certificate in Advanced Project Management, focusing on strategies for driving organizational success. This program enhances skills in project leadership and effective management.
University of Botswana
Masters in Social Work, Youth and Community Practice
Completed a Master's degree in Social Work with a specialization in Youth and Community Practice. This program provided in-depth knowledge and practical skills for social development and community engagement.
University of Botswana
Bachelor ’s Degree, Counselling
Obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Education with a specialization in Counselling. This degree equipped me with foundational knowledge in educational practices and counselling methodologies.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
Interested in hiring Pesalema ?
You can contact Pesalema and 90k+ other talented remote workers on Himalayas.
Message PesalemaFind your dream job
Sign up now and join over 100,000 remote workers who receive personalized job alerts, curated job matches, and more for free!
