Irinel ȘTEFAN, Project Manager | REF Romania

Irinel Ștefan has over 20 years of experience in project coordination, management, and evaluation, with a strong focus on social inclusion and education. His expertise spans designing and implementing projects aimed at Roma inclusion in the labor market, access to social services, education, community development, and the social inclusion of Roma women.
Before joining REF in 2018, Irinel worked as an independent expert evaluator for EU-funded projects and led numerous training sessions on community development, civic mobilization, public speaking, and project management for various organizations. His academic background includes a Master’s degree in European Social Policies and a Bachelor’s degree in Socio-psycho-pedagogy, complemented by specialized training in communication strategies, advocacy, leadership, and human rights.
At REF, Irinel has played a key role in multiple educational projects, focusing on mentoring for teachers, community mobilization, and support services for children whose parents work abroad. He is actively involved in project development, sustainability planning, and partnerships with local stakeholders to strengthen educational opportunities for Roma communities.