Thobekile Sithole

About Me

I am an international development professional with over a decade of experience driving impactful programs at the intersection of law, human rights, and child protection. Currently serving as Programme Coordinator at the International Development Law Organization in Rome, I oversee complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives aligned with global development goals, ensuring compliance, coordination, and strategic alignment across continents.

Previously, I led global children’s rights initiatives as Project Manager at the Global Campus of Human Rights in Venice, where I managed over 30 international projects, advocated for policy reform, and championed meaningful child participation across academic and institutional platforms. My leadership extended to shaping training programs, supervising regional teams, and representing the organization at high-level events and international conferences.

With a foundation in legal practice and research—including collaborations with UNICEF, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission, and SADC—I have contributed to policy development, legal reform, and evidence-based advocacy on child protection, gender equity, and community empowerment. From coordinating EU-funded grants in Zimbabwe to crafting legal briefs and manuals, I bring a holistic, rights-based approach to every initiative I undertake.

I am passionate about fostering inclusive dialogue, building resilient systems, and empowering marginalized voices—especially children—in shaping a just and equitable future.