Alia Thorpe

About Alia Thorpe

I have more than a decade of experience in international development and peacebuilding. My work has primarily focused on digital peacebuilding, conflict mapping and analysis, grant-making and management, and Participatory Action Research. Currently, I lead the Reducing Online Conflict Community (ROCC) initiative at Mercy Corps. In this role, I bring together stakeholders from a range of sectors to address online threats and harms such as misinformation and hate speech in conflict-affected areas. My approach to work is adaptable, collaborative, and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on building trust through interpersonal relationships at all levels of engagement. Throughout my career, I have worked across a wide range of cultures and regions. This includes addressing social inequalities in the United States, serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Armenia focusing on education and youth development, and recently designing and convening a Collaboration + Learning Event in Nigeria with subsequent weekly remote working groups. Through this recent work, I collaborated with diverse stakeholders, including social media platform employees, traditional peacebuilders, journalists, fact-checkers, academics, local CSOs, INGOs, government officials, and social media influencers to address the Weaponization of Social Media. I hold an MA in Sustainable International Development and an MA in Armed Conflict Resolution and Coexistence from Brandeis University, providing me with a versatile mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. I am particularly interested in how technology can bolster social cohesion and reduce polarization and am always eager to collaborate and learn from others. Outside of work, I am passionate about marine conservation, wildlife photography, and spending time around the array of animals at Seattle\'s many beaches. I volunteer at the Seattle Aquarium in many capacities and love exploring ways to be active in my local community. When not engaged in conservation work, I enjoy reading, creative writing, time with my dog, and urban gardening. I am always open to connecting with others interested in fostering resilient and responsive communities, whether it’s through digital peacebuilding, community development, or just sharing ideas.

Experience

1. Data Ai Community of Practice Consultant

   Mercy Corps

   Jan 2025 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   Supporting T4DS by scoping the implementation of a global community of practice focused on using data, data science, and AI by Mercy Corps program teams. Evaluating capacity-building needs, potential participant groups, and reviewing possible educational materials.

Education

• Augsburg University

  Bachelor's degree

  2011 — 2015

• Loreto College

  Partial Credits

  2012 — 2013

• Spokane Falls Community College

  Partial Credits

  2009 — 2011

• The Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University

  Master of Arts - MA

  2019 — 2020

• The Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University

  Master of Arts - MA

  2018 — 2020