Joshua Dennis Cleon, Sr. is a governance and development practitioner with over fourteen years of experience in program development and management, policy analysis, research, and strategic partnerships. Skilled in Project Management, Organizational Leadership, Public Sector Administration, Policy Analysis, Management, Entrepreneurship, Business Development and ICT. He currently serves as Deputy Program Director at Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, where he has managed several donor funded projects focused on governance, accountability, civic engagement, natural resource management, rule of law and human rights, decentralization etc.
As a passionate civil society advocate, he has promoted inclusive participation of youth and women in governance processes in Liberia and across Africa. Mr. Cleon holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Public Sector Administration from the Cuttington University School of Graduate and Professional Studies, a B.Sc. in Information Technology, a Graduate Certificate in Project Planning and Management from the Liberia Institute of Public Administration, and a Postgraduate Certificate in the Management of Democratic Elections in Africa from the University of South Africa, Pretoria.
His career has been marked by consistent engagement with government counterparts, development partners, and civil society organizations to deliver evidence-based policy guidance that promotes inclusive and sustainable growth. He has contributed to the development of national frameworks, political accountability reports, and resource mobilization strategies, while also providing technical expertise in governance reform. Proven ability to lead innovative and adaptable programs and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, driving process improvements and fostering a culture of excellence. Committed to upholding confidentiality, ethical standards and delivering high-quality results.
He is a 2017 U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Alumnus, and 2016 Youth Organizing School Fellow (OPACE 4.0). He also served as President Emeritus of the Cuttington University Graduate School Class of 2023 and was honored as an Honorary Citizen of Pensacola, Florida. An active member of several national and international networks, including serving as Board Member of the African Movement for Democracy, and membership with the World Youth Movement for Democracy, and the Monrovia Sinkor Lions Club. Beyond his professional expertise, he is also an ICT enthusiast, business development specialist, social entrepreneur, and dedicated leader committed to fostering accountable governance and sustainable democratic practices.