We’re incredibly excited to announce that Afua Bruce has joined us as DataKind’s Chief Program Officer!
As a member of the Executive Team, Afua will lead all of our programs, including our global project portfolio, our new Impact Practice model for tackling sector-wide challenges, our Center of Excellence for ensuring our projects meet the highest standards, our global Chapter network, and our volunteer community. One of the many reasons we’re thrilled to have Afua onboard is that she has exactly the blended background that DataKinders exemplify – she’s a computer engineer with deep experience working in the government and social sectors and has defined her work on principles of inclusivity and partnership building. Learn more about her background below.
Please join us in giving Afua a very warm DataKind welcome!
What were you up to before DataKind?
Most recently, I was the Director of Engineering for New America’s Public Interest Technology Program. I managed technologists, working across the country with state and local governments and NGOs, to develop technology and policy together to better deliver services. Our projects covered foster care, criminal justice reform, the opioid epidemic, financial inclusion, and more. I also oversaw the Public Interest Technology Network, a network of more than 20 universities committed to training students to apply technical expertise with policy making in public interest.
Why are you excited to join DataKind?
DataKind is a leader in the data for good space. I’m excited to work with talented volunteers across the world to help address some of society’s biggest challenges. I’m especially excited to be joining as DataKind shifts its focus to Impact Practices — systems and systemic change matters to me, and I think DataKind is well positioned to help drive sustainable change in a variety of issue areas.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Cooking and baking. I can often be found reading a cookbook, taking a cooking class, or experimenting in the kitchen. I like challenging myself and improving my skills, but I really like any excuse to bring people together for good conversation and to strengthen friendships. Other than that, I like trying new things. Every year, I take at least one class in something new to me — aerial yoga and axe throwing have made the list in prior years.
