NYC Gazette

Columbia SIPA’s Sadie Brownlee Aims to Help Migrants and Refugees

Apr 18 2024

Sadie Brownlee, a student at Columbia School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), is driven by her passion for refugee advocacy and human rights. Brownlee, who is pursuing a Masters of International Affairs with a concentration in Human Rights and Humanitarian Policy, shares her journey and aspirations.

Brownlee's dedication to the cause of migrants and refugees dates back to her childhood. She explains, "Ever since I was a kid, I have been passionate about the plight of migrants and refugees, and I wanted a career in refugee advocacy." This passion led her to major in global studies with a concentration in transnationalism during her undergraduate years.

After gaining valuable experience at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), where she worked on providing grants to resettled refugees, Brownlee recognized the systemic barriers within the national refugee regime. This realization fueled her determination to address immigration policy and make a meaningful impact in the lives of refugees.

Choosing Columbia SIPA for her graduate studies was a strategic decision for Brownlee. She was drawn to the institution's strong Human Rights and Humanitarian Policy program, distinguished faculty, and connections to prominent human rights organizations worldwide. Brownlee believed that SIPA would equip her with the necessary tools to achieve her goals in the policy realm.

As part of the Migration Working Group at SIPA, Brownlee aims to raise awareness about migration issues globally and empower students to advocate for positive change. She envisions a group where passion drives action and knowledge informs decisions. Brownlee's role involves organizing events, shaping the group's agenda, and engaging with students and faculty to plan impactful programming.

Outside of her academic pursuits, Brownlee finds solace in the vibrant city of New York. She enjoys exploring different neighborhoods, engaging with diverse communities, and immersing herself in the city's cultural offerings. Brownlee's love for art and human rights has inspired her to envision a career at the intersection of these two realms. She believes in the power of art to amplify social causes and hopes to curate exhibitions that shed light on migrant stories and promote activism through artistic expression.

In Brownlee's own words, "My plans change every day, but right now, I’m hoping to find a career working at the intersection of art and human rights." Her commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world drives her forward as she navigates her academic and professional journey.