Lea Sterli M.A. is a Consultant at Nexxus Consulting, specializing in international core crimes, transnational crime, organized crime, and human rights violations since May 2024. With a solid foundation in international crime and justice, she effectively addresses complex global issues through in-depth research, strategic analysis, and collaborative efforts.

Lea graduated Magna Cum Laude from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in May 2024, earning a dual admission accelerated Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in International Crime and Justice. Her academic journey equipped her with a strong understanding of criminological theories, which she integrates into contemporary analyses of transnational crime. Lea emphasizes the importance of applying both traditional and progressive perspectives, such as critical criminology and feminist viewpoints, to her work.

Her diverse experiences span multiple roles and organizations. As a Global Diplomacy Initiative Fellow at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research from January to July 2023, she collaborated with senior diplomats and experts, deepening her insights into global security and the intersection of human rights and diplomacy. At the Social and Labor Convergence Program from August 2023 to April 2024, she focused on labor rights, environmental, social, and governance practices, human rights due diligence, corporate social responsibility, and corporate accountability, engaging with non-governmental organizations and policymakers.

At Nexxus Consulting, Lea is committed to advancing human rights and equality as the firm begins its journey. She focuses on human rights due diligence and organized crime networks, working to establish collaborations with academic institutions, policymakers, and United Nations organizations. Through these partnerships, she aims to deliver foundational research and actionable recommendations that will shape the direction of the firm’s initiatives.

In addition to her consulting work, Lea presents her research at international conferences, contributing valuable insights into the convergence of crime and its implications for global security. Her research on the Western Balkans examines how regional criminal networks interact with global organized crime, offering critical insights for policymakers and law enforcement.

Lea’s expertise is further supported by certifications in Human Subject Research and Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative, ensuring ethical compliance in her work. Proficient in German and English, with working knowledge of French, she effectively engages with diverse international stakeholders. Her multicultural upbringing in Switzerland and her experience living in New York enrich her perspective on global justice issues, allowing her to draw insights from varied legal and social contexts.

Driven by a commitment to fostering change, Lea focuses on addressing systemic issues that perpetuate injustice. Through her role at Nexxus Consulting, she seeks innovative solutions and collaborative efforts that contribute to a safer and more equitable world.