Sara Kriksciun Joins WomenStrong International as Chief Innovation Officer to Advance Power-Shifting Philanthropy
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Sara Kriksciun Joins WomenStrong International as Chief Innovation Officer to Advance Power-Shifting Philanthropy
New role strengthens WomenStrong’s commitment to finding new ways to move resources and decision-making power into the hands of women-led organizations in the U.S. and globally
MARCH 4, 2026 — WomenStrong International announced today that Sara Kriksciun will serve as its Chief Innovation Officer. Sara steps into this leadership role at a pivotal moment for philanthropy, as the development and public funding landscape shifts and new models for resourcing grassroots leadership emerge.
WomenStrong has been working closely with Sara over the last year to advance strategies that move new resources — and decision-making power — into the hands of women-led organizations worldwide. In her new role, she will lead WomenStrong’s work to reimagine new financing models at a time when traditional aid is diminished.
“Sara has already been instrumental in helping us think boldly about how we reimagine and shift power in philanthropy,” said Dr. Chisina Kapungu, Executive Director of WomenStrong International. “Her leadership strengthens our resolve to mobilize significantly more resources, build trust-based partnerships, and deliver long-term investment to women-led organizations — redefining what effective philanthropy must look like now.”
Sara brings more than 25 years of global experience across gender-based violence prevention, economic opportunity, health, education, and climate and environmental justice. Her career spans more than 40 countries, where she has helped mobilize over $500 million for breakthrough ideas that support women and communities worldwide, receiving multiple awards for her innovation and success.
“We are at a pivotal moment to rethink how women-led organizations are funded,” Ms. Kriksciun said. “Ninety percent of women’s organizations have been affected by funding cuts, with nearly half at risk of shutting down. These leaders are already driving innovative solutions — now it’s our turn to find innovative new ways to fund them. I’m so honored to be joining the incredible WomenStrong team at such a critical moment for this work,” she added.
WomenStrong International partners with women-led organizations around the world, investing in bold solutions that advance justice, opportunity, and equity for women, girls, and their communities. Under Sara’s leadership, WomenStrong will expand new models for financing women-led organizations, strengthening global efforts to build a more just and equitable world.
About WomenStrong International
WomenStrong International invests in and partners with women-led organizations worldwide, advancing solutions that strengthen health, safety, economic opportunity, and climate resilience for women and girls. By shifting power and resources to local leaders, WomenStrong helps build stronger communities and a stronger world.
For More Information:
Michelle Lambert
Director of Strategic Communications
WomenStrong International
[email protected]
202.549.3710
