Ana Lejava supports the development and execution of all activities within the Institute’s policy and advocacy portfolio. She provides critical research and writing support for GIWPS’ interventions in crisis response efforts and policy processes. She helps coordinate stakeholder engagement across the U.S. government, the United Nations, civil society, and the private sector. Specifically, she focuses on the Institute’s Ukraine portfolio, Response Network and the Elevating and Connecting Global Women Leaders to Accelerate Progress on Gender Equality, Democracy, and Peace project. Previously, Ana worked as an advisor for the Permanent Mission of Georgia to the United Nations. She also served as a Young Ambassador of Georgia to the United States, using public diplomacy, arts, and culture to build stronger ties between the two countries.
Ana has worked with Human Rights First on the launch of their anti-human trafficking campaign and has worked with various non-profits including, Girl Scouts of New York City, Rebel Girls and Gibney Dance on empowering women and girls through performing arts education and art therapy. Ana holds a Master’s degree in Eurasian, Russian and East European Affairs from Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service and a B.A. in Political Science and Dance from Birmingham-Southern College. Ana also holds a certificate in diplomatic studies from the New York University and a certificate in International Business Diplomacy from Georgetown Global Business. Her passion lies in cultivating multi-stakeholder and gender-sensitive approaches in resolving emerging global challenges, ranging from the escalation of digital threats to ensuring an equitable transition towards green energy.