Professional History: Fiona Wanjiku Moejes, PhD, is the CEO of The Mawazo Institute, where she is building a movement of African women researchers leading cutting-edge research that informs policy, shapes industries, and drives sustainable development. Mawazo was founded on the belief that Africa’s future depends on homegrown knowledge and innovation that can meaningfully be integrated into public policy, international development, and the private sector. However, women remain underrepresented in research, facing systemic barriers like limited funding, mentorship, and access to global networks. During her tenure as CEO, Mawazo has expanded its reach to 20 African countries, directly supports 92 African women researchers (with an additional 60 joining in May 2025), raised over US$5M in funding, and introduced progressive policies such as a 4-day workweek and wellness funds.

Mawazo’s unique model goes beyond funding - providing mentorship, leadership training, and lifelong support through the Connects Network, ensuring that women researchers continue to grow their careers and influence long after their fellowship. To date, Mawazo’s network of African women research have started a public health think tank, launched climate-smart ventures and products, and have drafted AI bills in parliament, demonstrating their direct engagement in public discourse and shaping policies that drive impact across Africa.

Beyond research, Fiona is a champion for sustainability and climate resilience. She is the co-founder of Mawimbi Ocean Innovations, which is transforming coastal economies in East Africa through a scalable “seaweed-farming-as-a-service” model. By integrating scientific research with community-driven solutions, Mawimbi supports small-scale producers and strengthens the blue economy. Previously, Fiona led marine aquaculture and conservation projects in the Comoros and Kenya, working with communities to integrate sustainable ocean-based livelihoods.

Holding a PhD in Microalgal Biotechnology from Heinrich-Heine Universität Düsseldorf (Germany) and a Master’s in Medical Genetics from the University of Sheffield (United Kingdom), Fiona combines scientific expertise with a commitment to drive transformative change across sectors through evidence-based solutions, gender-inclusive policies, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through her work, Fiona continues to redefine leadership in research and sustainability, championing a future where African-led innovation and inclusive policymaking drive meaningful change for the continent and beyond.

She is an Executive Committee member of the International Society of Applied Phycology, and a Prometheus X Prize Awardee.

Academic and professional credentials: Masters of Biological Science in Medical Genetics, University of Sheffield
PhD of Natural Science, Heinrich-Heine Universität, Düsseldorf

Programs: 2020 – The African Marine Conservation Leadership Programme (ran by Blue Ventures and Maliasili)
2022 – Women for the Environment Africa Fellow