After three remarkable years with IDEA, we are sad to share that Anya Sparynska is moving abroad to begin a new adventure. During her time with us, Anya made an indelible mark - first by shaping a pioneering programme role, and later by guiding us in a capacity development role that strengthened our impact across Ireland’s development education sector.

From designing and implementing innovative initiatives to building partnerships and capacity across our member organisations, Anya has left IDEA stronger, more connected, and more ambitious for the future.

“I am sad to leave at such a pivotal time in IDEA: we are faced with unspeakable horror, as the need for justice and accountability grows ever more urgent. I have seen, however, our members and staff respond with creativity, humanity and dedication to these challenging times and find inspiration in it, even at this darkest hour.

A desire to be close to my family and the pressure of the housing crisis have driven me to Brussels, but I know I will be back as Ireland - it’s passionate, brave and kind people - now feels like home. I will be sure to follow IDEA and our members’ work closely in the coming year and hope to stay in touch!

“Working at IDEA has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Seeing ideas and passion turn into real impact and change has been incredibly fulfilling - I’ll carry those lessons, and the very special friendships made along the way with me always.”

 - Anya Sparynska

As Anya prepares to embark on her next chapter, we want to express our deepest gratitude for her contribution to IDEA and to the wider development education community. Her dedication, warmth, and commitment to collaboration have left a lasting legacy, and we wish her every success in the exciting journey ahead.

We’re Hiring: Capacity Development Programme Manager

We’re now recruiting a Capacity Development Programme Manager to continue building on the strong foundation Anya has helped create.

If you’re passionate about capacity-building, development education, and leading programmes that make real change, you may be the person to step into this role.

Deadline to apply: October 13, 2025.

👉 Learn more and apply here: https://www.ideaonline.ie/were-hiring-capacity-development-programme-manager

Key Responsibilities include:

• Leading IDEA’s capacity development programmes: training, workshops, and networking
• Designing and delivering flagship events
• Driving innovation, measuring impact, and aligning programmes with sector needs
• Collaborating across teams on policy, advocacy, and communications
• Representing IDEA at national and international levels