Peter Shiras

Peter Shiras "is the vice president - employment at the International Youth Foundation. The International Youth Foundation (IYF) is working in close to 70 countries and territories to improve the conditions and prospects for young people where they live, learn, work, and play. Established in 1990 to bring worldwide resources to young people in need, IYF works with hundreds of companies, foundations, and civil society organizations to strengthen and "scale up" existing programs that are making a positive and lasting difference in young lives.

"Previously, Peter was sinior vice president of programmes at Independent Sector (IS), the largest American association of non-profit organisations, foundations, and corporate philanthropy programmes based in Washington D.C. Prior to joining IS, he worked for thirteen years in international development in Latin America and Africa. He speaks fluent Spanish and has published articles in major newspapers including The New York Times and The Washington Post as well as chapters in several books. He currently serves on the board of directors of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, the most influential organization in the United States that sets standards for non-profit accountability, and CASA of Maryland, a social justice advocacy group working to promote the rights of immigrants and low-income residents of Maryland.

"Most importantly, Peter Shiras has a deep commitment to the mission, the values and the programmes of CIVICUS. He has been a long-standing supporter of CIVICUS, making presentations and convening workshops at the World Assemblies in Budapest, Manila and Vancouver, and serving as staff for the secretariat for Civicus North America. In 2002, Peter joined with CIVICUS to convene a meeting of leaders of NGO associations from around the world, and this group has become the CIVICUS Affinity Group for NGO Associations. Peter continues to serve on the steering committee of the Affinity Group.

"He was also nominated by the Cultural Movement of Antelias for man of the Year. He is currently a member of the Board of trustees of the Chronic Care Centre, Committee for National Action, Committee for Development Studies, Cultural Arab Club, Human Rights League, and the Cultural Committee for the South Lebanon." 

Currently a director of CIVICUS.