Tenielle K. Ellis holds dual Master’s degrees in International Relations from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University (2022–2024) and in Public Policy from the Hertie School in Berlin (2023–2024). She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, with a major in International Relations from New York University Shanghai (2018–2022), and simultaneously completed a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences from East China Normal University, developing a strong academic and regional focus on China-Africa relations. From 2020 to 2022, Tenielle lived and conducted research in West Africa, gaining in-depth knowledge of foreign investments on the continent—particularly Chinese-led infrastructure projects. Her undergraduate capstone and Master’s thesis explored the political and economic impacts of Chinese investments in African infrastructure, with a focus on local management systems, power dynamics, and economic development outcomes. In her research, Tenielle applies a mixed-methods approach, utilizing qualitative tools such as in-depth interviews and case study analysis, alongside quantitative methods including regression analysis and the evaluation of large datasets. She is passionate about producing actionable, equity-driven policy insights that support sustainable development and inclusive international cooperation.