Anastasia is a Senior Livelihoods Manager at the International Rescue Committee.
Anastasia Sikiaridi, MPA
After studying a Bachelor’s degree in history, I had the opportunity to work at various think-tanks and research institutes where I was able to explore my research interests in migration, nationalism and the post-Ottoman world. For a while, my interests shifted from research to policy. I wanted to continue my studies with a degree that would be practical, take courses that would allow me to consider different aspects of a social issue at a local or global level, and break down ideas into actions and results. I was drawn by the LSE’s strong focus on quantitative analysis and a broad array of electives that would allow me to dive deep into issues I care about.
After graduating from the School of Public Policy with an MPA, I began looking for work in London and Berlin in public policy research institutes or policy related consultancies. I was also looking for opportunities in the refugee response in Greece, and was able to find an opportunity to work in livelihoods programs with the International Rescue Committee in Athens. In 2021 I am still working with the IRC in programs that focus to support refugees, migrants and vulnerable host populations with integration – especially into the labour market. Working in an international organization with a multidisciplinary team of supportive colleagues, I have seen myself grow as a professional and continue to learn every day.
The skills I gained during the MPA have greatly impacted the way I approach my work. From approaching donors, to designing and implementing new projects and evaluating results, I apply analytical tools and thought processes that help me understand challenges bottom-up and top-down.
More than anything however, it is the friendships forged with people from all around the world that I most cherish – influencing the way I see the world in their own unique way.