Stellah Nikuze

Stellah Nikuze is a public policy professional, social worker, and refugee advocate pursuing a Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. She is a member of St Antony’s College. She is committed to shaping inclusive, evidence-based policies that advance refugee protection, economic inclusion, and sustainable development.

Born and raised in a refugee settlement, Stellah brings lived experience to her policy work, offering a unique perspective on the intersections of forced displacement, migration, gender equality, and economic development. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to addressing structural barriers that limit opportunities for refugees, particularly women and girls, through innovative and inclusive policymaking.

Her academic and professional interests focus on refugee inclusion, migration and resettlement, economic self-reliance, and policies that expand equitable access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities. She has collaborated with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and engaged with the Government of Canada to advocate for meaningful refugee participation in policymaking, equitable migration and resettlement systems, and durable solutions for displaced populations. She also supports policy approaches that strengthen refugee-hosting countries while promoting the economic empowerment of refugees.

Stellah aspires to influence national and global public policy by advancing rights-based, inclusive solutions informed by evidence, lived experience, and the voices of displaced communities. Her vision is to help shape policies that foster resilient institutions, inclusive economic growth, and equal opportunities for refugees to lead, contribute, and thrive.