Daniela Pugsley Reis

Human-centered design leader with over eight years of experience designing and managing inclusive, data-driven programs across more than ten countries. My work focuses on advancing equity in health, education, and human rights by co-creating solutions with local communities and partners. I worked with Rescue.co as Emergency Response Project Manager, leading multi-million-dollar grants that have directly reduced maternal health emergency delays and influenced national EMS protocols in Kenya. Previously, I was a Strategic Designer at ThinkPlace, where I led interdisciplinary projects across Africa to develop scalable interventions for clients such as UNICEF, IOM, and IRC. With a background in Design, I hold postgraduate diplomas in Development Project Management and Humanitarian Action, and executive certifications in Humanitarian Negotiation from Harvard Business School. My approach combines systems thinking, behavioral design, and strategic leadership, grounded in a commitment to decolonizing research and strengthening local ownership. I’m passionate about using participatory methods to drive long-term, meaningful impact in complex development and humanitarian settings.