Stefan Islandi holds a Master’s degree in Development Studies and Public Administration from Roskilde University (Denmark) and University of Edinburgh (Scotland). He is Director of the Danish NCD Alliance, which brings together some of Denmark’s largest patient organizations. With over 25 years of experience in development and humanitarian work, Stefan began his career with UNDP in Laos, before serving five years as a diplomat with the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, followed by leadership roles within the Red Cross. He has spent five years in Southeast Asia and a decade in Africa. A significant part of his time in Africa was as Head of Region for Danish Red Cross in East and the Horn of Africa, where he led large teams and worked closely with governments and hundreds of dedicated volunteers. He has operated in numerous African countries and led emergency operations in some of the world's most fragile regions.