International Youth Justice Information Gateway
Meet our Collaborators
Africa
Nigeria
Adefoworola Olutope Tokan-Lawal (“Tope”) https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-tope-tokan-lawal
A dual-qualified lawyer and Partner at Osuntuyi & Tokan-Lawal Law (OTL Law), a boutique law firm based in Lagos, Nigeria. She is the founder and Chair of the TOKAN Foundation for Children and Young People, a charity dedicated to promoting educational equity, and the Child Rights and Juvenile Justice Center (CRJJC), which provides pro bono legal aid and raises community awareness on children’s rights.
Zimbabwe
Linda Machingura https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-machingura-25696970/
A highly motivated professional, who values accountability and integrity with years of experience in Strategy, Policy Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation. A logical thinker, and team player whose focus is on participation, and inclusion for great achievement of programmes and projects. Problem solver through innovative ideas and results-oriented. A determined and excellent achiever both academically and professionally. Linda also takes time to do voluntary work.
Asia
Hong Kong
Mio Hung Mio HUNG | LinkedIn
Mio is a dedicated Social Work Lecturer at the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC). She is passionate about empowering young people, cultivating an inclusive society, and investigating the intersection of spirituality and criminology.
Mio's academic credentials include a Master of Social Work from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), a Master of Social Sciences (Social Policy and Criminology), and a Bachelor of Social Sciences (Applied Psychology).
Her pedagogy is a hybrid model that blends teacher-based instruction with student-oriented learning. This involves providing foundational knowledge and key concepts—such as theories, case studies, examples, current research, and reflective questions—through lectures, tutorials, and forum discussions. Concurrently, Mio strongly encourages students to actively engage in their social work education and pursue learning opportunities beyond scheduled class time.
Driven by a profound commitment to community service, Mio actively volunteers with Junior Chamber International (JCI). In this role, she leads and participates in diverse community development initiatives. Her notable projects, which have received awards and recognition, address critical issues including supporting women who have experienced miscarriage in Hong Kong, promoting youth mental health in Hong Kong, and assisting homeless individuals in Australia.
As an educator, Mio is deeply committed to nurturing students and observing their development. Her academic expertise and dedication to social justice and community well-being underpin her contributions in both her academic role and her volunteer endeavors.
India
Ananya Jha (1) Ananya Jha | LinkedIn
Ananya Jha is a public policy professional with expertise in legal advisory, public sector reforms, and policy research. She is a lawyer by training, with specialization in International Law. She has worked on varied policy domains ranging from education, public health and child rights. She is currently completing her Master of Public Policy at the Hertie School, Berlin. Her work focuses on GovTech and capacity building, with a particular interest in strengthening governance at the street level.
Indonesia
Alya Zahra Sabira (1) Alya Zahra Sabira | LinkedIn
A dedicated youth advocate with 5+ years of experience, Alya is committed to driving change in gender equality, climate action, and children's rights. Through her work with organizations like UNICEF Indonesia, UN Women, and PLAN International, she has led impactful initiatives that amplify youth voices in decision-making processes and policy advocacy.
Currently, Alya contributes as a Young Partner at UNICEF Indonesia and a National Gender Youth Activist for UN Women, ensuring that youth perspectives are at the forefront of governance, peace, and resilience efforts. Alya has also served as a Global Youth Reference for PLAN International, shaping youth-centered strategies for international development.
At Speak Out Youth, Alya's leadership sparked initiatives that amplify the voices of over a thousand young Indonesians, driving meaningful action on education, health, gender equality, and climate change in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through strategic collaborations, Alya has secured funding and built strong stakeholder relationships to expand impact and foster lasting change.
As a International Relations student at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta, Alya is deepening her expertise in global governance, global development, and human rights. This academic foundation strengthens her ability to bridge youth activism with diplomacy and policy advocacy.
Australia and Oceania
Queensland
Anthony (Tony) Jamieson https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-tony-jamieson-39335785/
Tony is currently in the final stages of completing his PhD at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Griffith University. His research topic is Trauma-Informed Care for kids in the youth justice system. Tony tutors at Griffith University and the University of Sunshine Coast, in various criminology courses
Tony's employment history includes managing youth justice training in Queensland.
Europe
England and Wales
Kathy Hampson linkedin.com/in/kathy-hampson-7a04b079
Kathy worked for several years working with justice-involved children as a case manager for a large city Youth Offending Team (YOT), completing her PhD whilst there, researching the emotional intelligence of children who offend (whilst also working for the University of Birmingham on their distance learning Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties MEd). After relocating to North Wales, she worked for the charity Llamau in a hybrid strategy/research project looking at YOT practice around the resettlement of children leaving custody. She is now a Senior Lecturer in Criminology at Aberystwyth University, where she set up the first Youth Justice Masters course on mainland Britain, and where she continues researching into youth justice (in particular youth justice systems).
Serbia
Natasa Jovic
Nastasa is a Human Rights Law, Rights of the Child, Gender Equality, Policy Analysis, Social and Cultural Rights and Rights of Persons with Disabilities. She has strong analytical skills, with training experience, Master's Degree in Rights of the Child from Union University Belgrade, Faculty of Law. Master's Degree on Education Policies at Belgrade University. Nastasa has also has long term experience within Ombudsman institution.
North America
Canada
Brenda Kobayashi https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-kobayashi-3936b1311/
Brenda is an Assistant Professor at Western University. Brenda is a socio-legal scholar and criminologist who explores the ways power intersect with law and justice. Current research explores the wider implications of policy and legislative changes on young persons who come in conflict with the law.
Canada
Virna Rodriguez Arguelles www.linkedin.com/in/virna-rodriguez-047976254
Virna earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology from York University in 2019 and began working in a community residential facility supporting federal offenders on parole in Toronto. This role continued until 2024, when she returned to school to pursue a Master’s in Sociology at Western University, where she is currently researching the role of language within legislative provincial Acts on child welfare and systemic inequalities. With a strong commitment to social justice, her long-term goal is to continue working alongside vulnerable populations within the criminal justice system, advocating for support, rehabilitation, and systemic change.
Editor and Admin Derek Denton https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-denton-26348689/ Derek is currently in the final stages of completing his PhD at the University of Queensland. His research explores procedural justice perceptions for children including an examination of the effect of trauma on children's perceptions of fairness. Participants in his study are a group of young adults who experienced an enmeshed youth justice system experience when they were younger. Derek is a qualified counselor but was always drawn towards advocacy. He has experience across the youth justice system including as a Human Rights observer, legal aid advocacy coordinator, writing government policy and managing justice system oversight. Derek currently works in Government developing youth justice engagement policies, procedures and strategies based on trauma-informed practice, procedural justice, focused deterrence and relationship building.
Editor Sanan Aghayev Sanan Aghayev | LinkedIn A dedicated and culturally responsive Mental Health Social Worker from Azerbaijan with extensive experience across international NGOs and local service settings. Skilled in holistic assessments, risk management, person-centred care planning, and multi-agency collaboration to support individuals facing complex mental health needs. Proven ability to lead community-based initiatives, deliver crisis intervention, and design psycho-social programmes in partnership with grassroots organisations. Experienced in supporting helpline operations, safeguarding children and adults, and developing training for frontline staff. Committed to empowering individuals, families, and communities through evidence-informed, compassionate practice that promotes dignity, resilience, and lasting wellbeing.
Burundi Emery Irakoze (1) Emery Irakoze | LinkedIn Driven by a deep commitment to social justice, peace and sustainable development, Emery is a results-oriented professional with a strong foundation in business administration and NGO management. As a YALI alumnus and BridgingTheGap Ventures' YOUNGA youth delegate, Emery has honed his leadership, problem-solving, design thinking, advocacy and teamwork skills on both local and global stage. With a proven track record in youth empowerment, Emery has successfully initiated and scaled impactful initiatives. From co-creating solutions for global challenges to fostering critical thinking and public speaking among university students, Emery is dedicated to inspiring and equipping young people to become catalysts for positive change. Emery's grant writing and project management skills, coupled with his constant improvement strategy and authentic integrity value, position him as a valuable asset to organizations seeking to create lasting impact. Currently, Emery is working with a dynamic team at Impunity Watch working towards a more just, equitable and sustainable future. Last but not least, Emery aspire to pursue a master’s degree in Social Policy because he believes that it will enable him to scale up his contribution to creating more equitable, peaceful, sustainable and just societies.
Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria and Central African Republic Andre Moussa Kalekanya Andre Moussa Kalekanya | LinkedIn Experienced, visionary leader, result-oriented, team worker, communicator, networker and influencer with effective leadership for more than 20 years of experience in child protection. He has a track record for working in complex emergencies in armed conflicts settings. His experience in child protection in emergencies covers various themes including: • Child Protection case management for quality programming and response for children and women in need of humanitarian assistance, • Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration of ex-combatants; • Monitoring and Reporting on grave violations of Children’s rights in the framework of the UNSEC Resolution 1612 , • Monitoring, Assessment and Reporting Arrangements of Sexual and Gender-Based violence in the Framework of UNSEC 1888 • Protection mainstreaming in humanitarian action; • Disability inclusion in humanitarian action. • Gender Mainstreaming in humanitarian action. • Humanitarian coordination mechanisms and cluster approach. Andre has experience as a team leader, technical support, capacity building, coaching, mentoring and inspiring peer support for results. His research focuises on: • Human rights; • Child protection • Armed conflicts; • Migrations. Published books: Andre Moussa Kalekanya ( 2021). “Children, Armed Conflicts and Migrations: a critical review of the international legal framework on child protection from a social legal perspective”. Available online in Amazon.com ( ebook-Kindle version and on Paper back). https://www.amazon.com/s?k=children%2C+armed+conflicts+and+migrations&i=stripbooks-intl-ship&ref=nb_sb_noss
Ethiopia Ashenafi Fisha Sendeku Ashenafi Fisha Sendeku | LinkedIn Ashenafi brings extensive expertise in arbitration, legal education, and legal research. As an Assistant Lecturer in Law at the Law School of Bahir Dar University, he teaches and researches international trade and investment law, private international law, and the law of contracts. As a Legal Researcher and Consultant at I-Arb Africa, he plays a key role in I-Arb Africa’s projects, including a Jus Mundi legal data project. He develops training materials, blogs, news, and research on International Arbitration Law. He is also the Founder and Legal Content Creator of ABOUT-LAW, Ethiopia’s leading digital legal platform with over 30,000 users. By providing free access to Ethiopian legal resources, including legislation, case law, and research materials, he enhances access to justice and promotes legal awareness in Ethiopia.
Poland Dr Emilia Jurgielewicz-Delegacz (6) Emilia Jurgielewicz-Delegacz | LinkedIn Dr Emilia Jurgielewicz-Delegacz graduated from the Faculty of Law at the University of Białystok with a Master's degree in Law in 2010 and a Master's degree in European Studies in 2011. She also graduated from the Institute of International Relations at the University of Warsaw in 2011 with a Master's degree in International Affairs. In 2009 and 2010, Dr Jurgielewicz-Delegacz received scholarships from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, and in 2012 she was awarded a scholarship from the University of Bern (Switzerland), which included a three-month internship at the Institute of Criminal Law and Criminology. In 2015, she defended her doctoral thesis entitled "Traffic accidents involving persons with disabilities, in particular blind and visually impaired persons. A legal and criminological study". In the same year, her dissertation won the first prize in the content of the Human Rights Defender for the best dissertation in the field of legal sciences on social exclusion. Since 2015, she has been working at the Department of Criminal Law and Criminology at the Faculty of Law of the University of Bialystok. In 2016, Emilia received a grant from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education for young researchers. She was the main participant of a research project financed by the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBiR). Dr Jurgielewicz-Delegacz is the author of numerous publications and has presented papers at several conferences. She is a member of both the European Society of Criminology and the American Society of Criminology. She is also a board member (Secretary) of the Polish Society of Criminology. Her main research interests are rural criminology, rural crime, legal and criminological aspects of traffic accidents, criminology and Polish criminal law. She participates in the preparation of reports on organised crime in Poland (Global Initiative against Transnational Organised Crime). Currently, all her scientific work is devoted to the implementation of the scientific project "Rural Crime in Poland", funded by the National Science Centre. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3005-8401 ResearchGate: Emilia JURGIELEWICZ-DELEGACZ | Professor (Assistant) | PhD | University of Białystok, Białystok | Faculty of Law | Research profile
Somalia Wilo Abdulle Osman Wilo is a senior expert in Social Work, specializing in Gender, Human Rights, and Social Inclusion, with over 20 years of dedicated experience in advancing gender equality, social inclusion, and community participation in development initiatives. As a professional social worker in Gothenburg municipality, Sweden, for more than two decades, Wilo possesses a strong background in universal social protection and human rights. She has a proven track record of designing and executing impactful social development research projects that inform policy and promote the integration of gender equality and human rights within both national and international frameworks. In addition to her social work expertise, Wilo has a background in journalism, which enhances her ability to communicate effectively and advocate for marginalized communities. Driven by a passion for inclusivity and social change, Wilo excels in fostering collaboration, mobilizing resources, and implementing initiatives that empower marginalized and vulnerable communities. Her core competencies include the promotion of human rights—particularly child rights, women's rights, and disability rights—as well as expertise in social protection, research, policy analysis, project management, capacity building, and cross-cultural collaboration. Wilo pursued her studies in Social Work at the University of Gothenburg, where she gained a comprehensive understanding of social policies, human rights, and community development. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work Science from the University of Gothenburg, which she obtained between 1996 and 2000.Wilo further expanded her expertise by earning a Master's Degree in Social Work with a focus on Community Development Thematic Areas from Stellenbosch University in South Africa, where she studied from February 2001 to January 2003.Additionally, Wilo holds a Master's Degree in Criminology with a focus on Youth and Gang Thematic Areas from the University of Gothenburg, which she completed between August 2006 and July 2007. Wilo was a co-founder and chairlady of the National Afroswedish Association from 1999 to 2009, where she played a crucial role in advocating for the rights and representation of Afro-Swedish individuals. Following this, she served as the Executive Director of the National Afroswedish Association from 2010 to 2011 until she decided to return to Somalia in 2012. Wilo's key achievements include: • Provided advisory support to governments and international organizations on human rights compliance and gender equality. • Developed policies ensuring that security forces adhere to international human rights standards, particularly for children and marginalized groups. • Led capacity-building initiatives focused on disability-inclusive programming and gender responsive policies. • Contributed to the establishment of social work education programs in Somalia that emphasize human rights, gender equality, and disability inclusion. • Strengthened the Ministry's partnerships with civil society organizations and organizations of persons with disabilities, fostering collaboration on rights-based programming, advocacy, and research. • Represented the Ministry in national, regional, and global meetings, advocating for the voices of marginalized groups, women, children, and persons with disabilities. In addition to her extensive work in human rights and social inclusion, Wilo has significant political engagement in Sweden. She served two mandates totaling 10 years as an elected member of the district council in Gothenburg City. For 4 years, she was a member of the national political board leading the Feminist Initiative (FI) in Sweden. Furthermore, she dedicated 10 years as a jury member at the Gothenburg Court, contributing to the legal and civic landscape of the community. In her recent role as a Senior Researcher with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, Wilo has designed and conducted research on social security rights, reviewed Somalia's Social Protection Policy, and produced comprehensive reports aimed at enhancing accessibility for persons with disabilities. Prior to this, Wilo served as a Specialized Technical Expert on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment (GEWE) and Child Rights at the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development in Somalia. There, she played a pivotal role in drafting and implementing key child rights legislation and mainstreaming gender, human rights, and disability inclusion across government programs. Wilo's experience also includes extensive work in international human rights, social security laws, and humanitarian efforts. She has successfully managed programs integrating gender and human rights considerations, delivered specialized training to government officials and armed forces, and conducted research that informs policy decisions and enhances the effectiveness of human rights programs. Academic Contributions Her academic contributions include publications on topics such as the social impacts of Khat among Somali families and the coping strategies of children in armed forces. Wilo has contributed to various publications, including: • The Active Participation of Women/Girls in Crimes in Gothenburg, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, 2007 (unpublished) • Community Development in Kayamandi, Stellenbosch University, South Africa, 2003 • The Coping Strategies of Children in Armed Forces and Groups in Uganda, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, 2000 • The Social and Economic Impacts of Khat Among Somali Families in Sweden, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, 1997 • Witness Stories and Experiences on FGM in Somalia, Vasterhaninge Folkhighschool, Sweden, 1997 Wilo continues to engage actively in human rights promotion and gender rights advocacy, ensuring that government-led programs align with international standards. Wilo Abdulle Osman remains committed to creating meaningful societal transformation through advocacy, research, and policy development, ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and their rights upheld.
Ghana Jasmin Zubida Baidoo (2) "jasmin zubida baidoo" | Search | LinkedIn Jasmin is a passionate advocate for vulnerable and at-risk children, with a special focus on youth in conflict with the law. She is the Founder of Martha’s Compassion, a faith-driven nonprofit dedicated to building a society where fewer children face the harsh realities of vulnerability. Coming from a single-parent home herself, she deeply understands the struggles young people face and is committed to helping them see beyond their circumstances. Through mentorship, faith-based guidance, and skills training, she works to foster a community of support that empowers vulnerable youth to rewrite their stories. Jasmin has successfully coordinated several mentoring and skills training workshops, bringing together entrepreneurs and public figures who have defied the odds to inspire the juveniles she works with on their journey to restoration. She also facilitates internships and job placements for young girls in vocational training, ensuring they have opportunities to build stable futures. As a member of the Discharge and Acceptance Board of the Senior Boys Correctional Center in Accra, she contributes to discussions on juvenile reintegration. Through Martha’s Compassion, she has successfully reintegrated some juveniles back into society, providing them with mentorship, vocational opportunities, and a faith-based support system that fosters renewal and transformation. As a licensed Christian Counselor, chaplain, and minister, she believes true rehabilitation happens when young people encounter God’s love and grace. Her background in chaplaincy gives her a deep understanding of individual needs, allowing her to offer compassionate guidance to people of all faiths while remaining firmly rooted in her Christian beliefs. Jasmin holds advanced degrees in Religious Studies and Theology and is committed to restoring hope and purpose in the lives of vulnerable youth through the power of faith.
Morrocco Haytham El Ouardy Haytham El Ouardy | LinkedIn Haytham is a Moroccan Child Protection Specialist and youth empowerment advocate with a strong track record in promoting children's rights, social inclusion, and participatory development. With extensive experience across government institutions, international organizations, and civil society, he has led and contributed to impactful initiatives that support vulnerable children and amplify the voices of young people. He holds advanced academic qualifications in child protection, education, and youth work, having graduated from the Royal Institute for Training Youth and Sports Managers in Rabat. His training has equipped him with a solid foundation in psychosocial support, family assistance, educational facilitation, and rights-based approaches to child welfare. Haytham’s professional journey includes key collaborations with UNICEF, where he played various roles in supporting adolescent development, youth-led research, and policy advocacy. He has facilitated national workshops, coordinated youth consultations, and led participatory action research aimed at influencing decision-making and strengthening child protection systems. In his current role as a Child Protection Specialist at a government-run child protection center, he provides direct support to children in vulnerable situations, works closely with legal and social institutions, and implements educational programs that promote reintegration and empowerment. Beyond his institutional role, Haytham actively engages with civil society initiatives, notably through his work with organizations supporting migrant and refugee youth. He has also led large-scale empowerment programs, such as leadership and digital literacy camps for adolescent girls in underserved regions of Morocco. Known for his professionalism, empathy, and dedication, Haytham has represented Moroccan youth in international forums and continues to champion inclusive, evidence-based policies that improve the lives of children and young people. His work bridges grassroots realities with institutional advocacy, ensuring that the voices of youth are not only heard—but drive meaningful change.
Armenia Tatevik Gharibyan Tatevik Gharibyan | LinkedIn Law and Human Rights: over 10 years of experience in human rights, legal comparative analysis, provision of legal consultancy, etc. Research: experienced researcher, in-depth interviews, case studies, desk review. Project cycle management: proven record of programme/project development, management, organization, coordination and management of various public activities, meetings, events, as well as research projects and surveys. Designing and managing all aspects of large and small scale programs, including budgeting, reporting, communications, proposal writing, publication development, evaluation and monitoring skills. Grant management skills. Proven expertise in working in a multi-country, multi-partner and consortium settings․ Writing: Proven record of writing evaluation reports, policy briefs, memorandums, project and research papers and reports, successful experience in writing project concept notes and full proposals for various donors. Teaching/Training: lecturer, trainer, experience in development and implementation of training programs for adults on human rights, Anglo-American legal systems, legal research methodology, development of educational programs and syllabuses for graduate students, as well as teaching at graduate level. Presentation: presentation skills, preparation and delivering presentations in various conferences, seminars, workshops, both internationally and nationally. Communication: Excellent communication, mentoring, co-working, adaptive and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate across cultures, maintaining high profile of value systems and sensitivity with diverse groups of individuals and organizations․