Deborah Backus

Deborah Backus is the CEO of Clean Rivers, a UAE-backed foundation addressing challenges at the nexus of waste and water. With over 20 years of experience leading transformative initiatives, she is known for turning bold ideas into lasting impact through innovation and partnerships.

She leads Clean Rivers’ global work to drive freshwater sustainability by strengthening local waste systems through circular approaches, catalysing investment, and fostering collaboration across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Previously, Deborah served as Chief Design Officer at Worldreader, where she championed human-centred design and digital innovation to expand access to reading in low-resourced communities. She was also the Director of the All Children Reading Grand Challenge, a global edtech fund focused on scalable learning solutions.

In the UAE, she has contributed to social development and policy reform initiatives with the Abu Dhabi government, driving systems change through collaboration and public innovation. Her early career includes work with the UN Refugee Agency and NGOs in Thailand, Cambodia, and the United States where she deepened her commitment to community-driven solutions and inclusive development.

Deborah began her career as a Peace Corps volunteer in Jordan. She holds a Master of Social Work in Social and Economic Development from Washington University in St. Louis.