Esther Chachu
My name is Esther Chachu, and I’m originally from Ghana. I’m a wife, mom and the owner of a sustainable fashion startup. My background in business administration and extensive professional experience in developing economics and econometrics have fueled my passion for global issues, especially those affecting women and children. I am looking forward to pursuing a career in international development to contribute to a more equitable world.
"The structure of the Master in International Development emphasizes developing the critical analytical skills and global perspectives essential for today’s constantly evolving global landscape."
Building equity into policy through international development studies
Esther Chachu is originally from the Gold Coast of West Africa in Accra, Ghana. After studying business administration, Esther is building her passion for equity into her studies by diving into the world of international development. Her passion for global issues like sustainability and accessibility of resources led her to the Master in International Development at IE University. Esther feels that the program is dynamic and intellectually stimulating, helping her identify and solidify her moral motivations for wanting to make policy changes that support international development, especially for women and children.
Esther was drawn to the Master in International Development because of its analytical structure. This type of learning, combined with her established passions for women and children, will hone Esther’s skills in results-based management, policy analysis and design, multi-stakeholder management and negotiation. These skills will provide the foundation that Esther needs to achieve her long-term goal of ensuring policies that are more equitable for all.
Since day one, the program has been a welcome challenge for Esther. She finds the intellectual debates and riveting discussions she has with classmates about contemporary trends in the development sector invaluable. Esther is eagerly anticipating Immersion Week, where she’ll continue her studies at the UN Office of Geneva—an experience that will provide unique insights and opportunities to expand her network. For Esther, the opportunity to continue her practical learning in Geneva is a highlight of the program, as she’s always dreamed of working for the UN.
Outside of the classroom, Esther takes advantage of the resources available at IE University. She is a proponent of the IE Center for Health and Well-being, which provides resources to help students maximize their health—a necessary focus for Esther as she engages with the challenging and stimulating aspects of her program.
Esther believes the Master in International Development is the pathway toward her desire to contribute to a more equitable world for all, especially children, youth and women. The program not only exposes students to the complex challenges associated with promoting sustainable prosperity around the world, but also opens doors to work opportunities in both governmental and non-governmental sectors.
As a young professional woman pursuing a career in international development, Esther recognizes the challenge of balancing professional ambitions with personal commitments. However, she feels challenged and empowered by working with professors at IE University who are experts in their fields. Having these role models has reinforced her motivations for pursuing a more sustainable, prosperous and equitable future for all.
In the future, Esther sees herself researching, designing and implementing public policies that tackle the social challenges she cares about most. She knows that the knowledge and skills she’s acquiring at IE University will translate to a meaningful career, whether it’s in the public or private sector. Esther advises anyone considering this program to recognize the courage needed to undertake the endeavor. She highlights the opportunities to challenge biases, deepen moral motivations and open doors to the possibilities of affecting policy that can create a better world for everyone.