Abel Bessenso Wani Ezeron is an expert in peace and human rights. After completing his first Degree in Social Work and Social Administration in 2013, he started working for a number of NGOs in South Sudan delivering basic services to conflict affected communities. In 2015, he founded a National Non-Governmental Organization (NNGO) working to alleviate suffering among vulnerable South Sudanese in the areas of human rights, education, health, peace building and food security and livelihood. In 2021, Abel joined Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) an international NGO with a mission to serve humanity.  Along with a track record in peace and human rights advocacy, he has experience in NGO governance, policies, strategic plan, proposal development, resource mobilization and networking. Abel has a master's degree in Peace and Development studies from University of Juba and Degree in Social Work and Social Administration from Bugema University-Kampala Uganda. Abel supports local NGOs in the areas of governance, management, finances, and networking. 

IVLP Impact Award Project: Enhancing Capacity for Organizations of Persons with Disabilities in Juba and Terekeka Counties

Through the project, nearly 3,000 people with disabilities were given the opportunity to fully and equally engage in society, enjoy all of their fundamental freedoms, and enjoy the entire range of human rights. The project was carried out in Terekeka County and Juba, South Sudan. Using NGOs to advance their advocacy and the rights of persons with disabilities, advocates with disabilities shared their experiences and best practices through interactive radio broadcasts as part of the project. Additionally, training was provided to local groups on NGO administration subjects like social media outreach and fundraising.

“After the training on NGO management... my organization now has all the necessary policy documents [and] I am very optimistic that [in the] coming year... this will allow us to secure a lot of funding to support the people living with disabilities in South Sudan." - Project Participant

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Abel was a participant in the IVLP Project NGO Management, organized by the U.S. Department of State and the American Councils for International Education.

Abel's exchange experience led to the development of his IVLP Impact Award Project: "IVLP has enhanced my experience in the NGO world."

U.S. Communities Visited

Washington, DC; Boston, MA; Detroit, MI; Manchester, NH

Country: South Sudan

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