Reena Ghelani

Reena Ghelani is a seasoned global leader with over 25 years of experience in humanitarian, displacement, human rights, and peacekeeping. As Chief Executive Officer of Plan International, she brings deep strategic leadership and operational expertise to advance children’s rights and equality for girls. 

Before joining Plan International, Reena served as UN Assistant Secretary General, playing a pivotal role in driving climate change and food security responses, supporting displaced communities, coordinating emergency aid, and shaping policies for long-term recovery. She also served as Director of Operations and Advocacy at OCHA, overseeing humanitarian operations in 40 offices worldwide and leading responses in crises such as Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. 

Throughout her career, she has advanced organisational effectiveness, led reforms, and championed gender parity in leadership. A strong advocate for gender equality, diversity, and the decolonisation of aid, Reena promotes the leadership of women and local organisations in humanitarian action. Born in Uganda and holding Australian citizenship, she is a global citizen committed to building a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future.