Matthew Nyanplu

Matthew decided to study at IE University as he felt that it provided the shortest and most comprehensive pathway to a career in the international development sector. As a person who strives continuously to put the needs of others before his own, he knew this was the program for him.

Though somewhat challenging at times, he claims that his IE University journey really opened his eyes, providing him with a true understanding of the foundational issues that drive developmental progress on both a local and global scale. Matthew was also especially impressed with how well the program prepared him for further academic advancement and opened the door to development and public policy positions. He sees the university as a great place for anyone who enjoys working in a dynamic atmosphere.

Outside of day-to-day classes, Matthew also participated in a Capstone Project while studying for his postgraduate degree. His team, which had three members in total, focused their efforts on the contributions of sovereign wealth funds towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Through this project, he was made aware of alternative sources of funding for global and local development, and how prudent investments by the sovereign wealth funds hold the promise to deliver a green future for the world and halt the warming of our planet. Not only that, Matthew was also able to gain a greater appreciation of the role sovereign wealth funds play in terms of development and welfare advancement.

Matthew is currently undertaking an internship at The Advocacy Project. He has been tasked with coordinating a storytelling project for Ebola Survivors in Liberia. The aim of this particular venture is to help organizations understand the effects of the Ebola crisis on survivors, and advance policy solutions for post-pandemic recovery for survivors, including those that have been recently affected by COVID-19.

Looking to the future, Matthew would like to put everything he learned at IE University to good use and pursue a leadership role either in Liberia or at an international level.

“IE University prepared me for everything, further academic advancement and a competitive candidate for development and public policy positions.”

Why did you choose IE University to pursue your Master in Development?

I realized that IE University provided the shortest and most comprehensive pathway to both explore and gain expertise in  international development.

What did you like the most about the Master in Development?

The program really opened my eyes and helped me to understand the foundational issues that drive developmental progress both on a global and local scale.

Tell us about your capstone project: how did it help you in advancing your career?

Our capstone, in a team of three, focused on the contributions of sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) towards the achievement of the sustainable development goals. The capstone expanded my knowledge about alternative sources of funding for global and local development, and how prudent investments by the sovereign wealth funds hold the promise to delivering a green future for the world and halting the warming of our planet. It has helped me advance because I now have an appreciation of the role of sovereign wealth funds in advancing development and welfare.

How you feel your IE University experience and/or the talent & careers department helped you secure your job?

IE prepared me for everything, further academic advancement and a competitive candidate for development and public policy positions.

How has your experience as an Intern at The Advocacy Project been so far?

With the Fellowship at The Advocacy Project, I am coordinating a story telling project for Ebola Survivors in Liberia. Our aim is to understand the effects of the Ebola crisis on survivors, and advance policy solutions for post pandemic recovery for survivors including those being affected by covid-19.

What advice would you give someone who is considering pursuing your program?

Go for it!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Well on the path to national leadership in Liberia and in the world.

In less than 80 words, could you summarize your experience at IE University?

It was a challenging and worthwhile experience. IE is a dynamic place for dynamic people. If dynamism is a criterion that fits anyone, they should not hesitate, go to IE.