For the past five years, Maria has worked at the intersection of strategic communications, advocacy, and human rights, using data and storytelling to drive change across Africa. Her work has focused on advancing access to information, gender equality, and digital rights; mobilizing resources; shaping donor strategies; and amplifying citizen voices in regional and multi-country campaigns. At the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), she contributes to initiatives that strengthen transparency, accountability, and open data practices as foundations for human rights and sustainable development. Maria is particularly committed to ensuring that data governance in Africa is equitable, inclusive, and aligned with ACHPR Resolution 620, so that communities are not excluded from decisions that shape their lives. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communication and is finalizing her Master’s in Strategic and Corporate Communication.