Stella Chewe Sabi elected fellow of the Institute of Management Specialists

Stella Chewe Sabi has been elected a Fellow of the Institute of Management Specialists, marking a significant milestone in a career defined by leadership, management excellence, and public service.

The honour places her among a select group of professionals recognised by the United Kingdom-based institute for sustained impact and professional integrity.

The IMS Fellowship is the highest level of membership within the organisation and is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, influence within their field, and a commitment to advancing management practice.

Sabi’s election reflects years of work across the public and private sectors, where she has focused on organisational development, human resource management, and community advancement.

With a career spanning multiple sectors, Sabi has earned a reputation as a people-centred leader who combines strategic thinking with a strong ethical compass. Her work has consistently prioritised organisational efficiency, workforce empowerment, and accountability, values that align closely with the mission of the Institute of Management Specialists.

Colleagues describe her as a pragmatic visionary who balances analytical insight with empathy and purpose. One associate familiar with her work said her approach to leadership is grounded in service and integrity, adding that she is known for building systems that allow individuals and institutions to thrive.

The Institute of Management Specialists is dedicated to promoting excellence in management and professional development worldwide. Fellowship status is reserved for those whose careers demonstrate a lifelong commitment to raising standards in leadership and governance.

By attaining this distinction, Sabi joins an elite international network of professionals shaping management practice in both emerging and established economies. Beyond her professional achievements, Sabi is widely recognised for her mentorship and advocacy for capacity building, particularly among women and young professionals.

Her leadership philosophy emphasises education, ethical practice, and continuous learning as tools for empowerment and sustainable development. She continues to champion initiatives that strengthen cross-sector collaboration and improve public service delivery, with a focus on ensuring that leadership and management reforms translate into tangible community benefits.

Peers often point to her ability to combine strategic oversight with inclusivity, describing her leadership style as authentic and enduring. For Sabi, the IMS Fellowship represents not an endpoint but a platform for broader engagement.

She has described the recognition as a call to continue creating pathways for others to lead with confidence, competence, and purpose, particularly across Africa. Her election also reflects the growing recognition of African leadership voices on global professional platforms.

As she enters this new chapter, Sabi remains committed to advancing ethical leadership and innovative management practices, reinforcing a legacy built on service, excellence, and lasting impact.