
Philip Stephen
Associate researcher
Philip Stephen is a passionate international development expert with over two years of experience in implementing donor-funded projects that enhance educational access, promote green and renewable energy, and advance gender-transformative social policies. He has successfully collaborated with esteemed organizations, impacting thousands of beneficiaries across Nigeria (Africa). Stephen’s commitment to social impact and youth development is further exemplified by his participation in selection committees of prestigious global fellowships such as the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Community Engagement Exchange Program (CEEP), Atlas Corps, and, most recently, the European Union (EU) Youth Empowerment Fund through the Global Youth Mobilization, where he identifies and supports emerging leaders.
As an emerging professional in China-Africa relations, Stephen focuses on Chinese investment in Nigeria and the engagement of Chinese organizations seeking to expand into Africa and the Middle East, region. His keen attention to detail, effective communication skills, and ability to build partnerships have provided him with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. His recent work has involved assisting in partnerships between African institutions and the Yenching Academy at Peking University. Since arriving in China as a Yenching Academy scholar, he has served as Co-Director of the Yenching Global
Symposium and presented research at reputable institutions, including the University of Oslo, University of Toronto, and, most recently, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Furthermore, he has delivered speeches at global forums such as the 2023 Beijing Forum
and the 2024 ECOSOC Youth Forum.