Meet Our Team

Vestine Umulisa

Executive Director

Advocate Vestine Umulisa has over 10 years of legal expertise as a registered lawyer with the Rwanda Bar Association. She currently serves as the Deputy Executive Director at the Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development. Passionate about advocating for justice and equality, Umulisa extends her skills to champion women's rights. Her commitment to fostering positive change is evident through her role in the organization. With a formidable background in law and a dedicated stance as a women's rights activist, she contributes significantly to advancing human rights and empowering marginalized communities in the pursuit of a more equitable society.

John Scarius

Director of Programs

John, an alumni of the Dullah Omar Institute and National University of Rwanda, is a passionate human rights lawyer specializing in Environmental Justice and Public Interest Litigation. With over eight years of experience, he excels in research, capacity building, and grants management. Previously a government legal advisor, John now focuses on human rights advocacy, monitoring, and reporting. He has developed shadow reports for Human Rights Treaty Bodies and the UPR Mechanism, and works closely with CSOs, activists, and vulnerable communities at national, regional, and global levels to advance human rights.

Eugene Ntagungira

Director of Finance

Ntagungura Eugene is the officer in charge of Finance for Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development (GLIHD) since 2015. He holds among other qualifications and trainings in many different areas. A Bachelor’s degree in Business administration (BBA) obtained in 2012 from ST Lawrence University Kampala, advance diploma in Education with specialization in Accounting from Kampala University, Advanced diploma in Project management from ST Lawrence University Kampala.

Patrick Iradukunda

Programs Manager

Mr. Patrick, a committed professional with expertise in International Economics, boasts over 6 years of experience in project management, research, and business advisory consultancy services. He has worked extensively with both local and international non-government organizations, both as a full-time staff member and as a consultant. His career interests encompass research, capacity building, partnership building, and results-based monitoring and evaluation.

Alpha Iriza

Sexual Health Associate

Alpha Iriza, a lawyer with a passion for human rights and diversity inclusion, holds a law degree from Kigali Independent University. She actively provides legal aid and develops skills in human rights advocacy. A certified trainer in intersectionality, gender, GBV, and diversity inclusion, she is committed to a world where rights are respected. Alpha also completed specialized training in evidence-based advocacy in SRHR, reflecting her dedication to advancing human rights and protection for all.

Pitie Rasana

Legal Officer

Pitie Rasana Benedict, a lawyer educated at Kigali Independent University (ULK), specializes in intellectual property law while also providing legal aid, particularly in family and personal law matters. Renowned for meticulous legal research, he tailors counsel to clients' needs. Rasana has undergone specialized training in statelessness protection, SRHR advocacy, AI, and strategic litigation, aiming to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights. Dedicated to excellence and client advocacy, he ensures positive outcomes in every case.

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