The Social Incubator Association, an NGO dedicated for over 12 years to the socio-professional integration of institutionalized youth, announces the appointment of Cristina Badea as CEO. An expert in developing strategies, policies, programs, and partnerships in the field of children’s rights, she brings 20 years of experience from local and international organizations, as well as from the public sector.

Her appointment comes at an important moment for the organization, which is expanding its impact internationally with the launch of The Social Incubator branch in the United States of America. Cristina Badea takes over leadership from Adriana Preda, who will continue to support the organization as a board member, focusing on the development of global initiatives.

“I take on this new role with great responsibility and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of The Social Incubator team. I joined the team with a clear commitment to consolidate the results achieved, generate measurable impact, and promote positive change in the lives of young people in Romania, especially those who are vulnerable. I believe in strong partnerships, continuous learning, and in the power of young people as agents of their own transformation. Together with corporate partners, public institutions, and civil society organizations, we can build hope, trust, and a sustainable future alongside them,” said Cristina Badea.

For over 13 years, Cristina Badea was part of the local office of a prestigious global organization dedicated to protecting children’s rights. In the past five years, she held the roles of Program Manager and Coordinator of the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Program.

Her academic background has supported this path: Cristina Badea holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Bucharest, a master’s degree in political Sociology from Université Paris 7, and is a graduate of an international Public Policies program in Mental Health at the Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health.