NARDOS BEKELE-THOMAS is the Chief Executive Officer for the Africa Union Development Agency- New Partnerships for Africa’s Development (AUDA- NEPAD). She commenced this role in May 2022 having been unanimously endorsed by the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government during the 35th Ordinary Session of the AU.

Ms. Bekele-Thomas is a member of the Group of African Imminent Women, she is a recipient of the prestigious AU/DAF Award of “2015 Woman of Excellence” along with the Presidents of Liberia and former President of Malawi. She was also honored in 2007 as recipient of the Living Legend Achiever’s Award in recognition of her service and leadership role in the promotion of sustainable human development globally, particularly in Africa.

Ms. Bekele-Thomas holds a Master’s Degree in Economic Development, Monetary Economics and Econometrics from New York University (NYU).