I am very firmly committed to the development and growth of Africa. The continent traces my childhood and life journey. I grew in Lusaka, Zambia. When I was 14 years old I moved to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia with my mother, where she worked for the Organization of African Unity (OAU) now African Union. She spent much of her career with this office and was an excellent role model for me. From the ages of 15-18, I studied in Limuru, Kenya. Today, my career with the United Nations has enabled me to give back to my continent with dedication and passion.

I am a Public Information Assistant for the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). My day starts at 8.00 a.m., when we have our daily team meeting. Who needs a photographer? Who needs a video package? Which delegate is visiting the Mission area and needs a media liaison? What media enquiries and requests need to be addressed? These are just some questions du jour that will direct my work on any given day.

I try to establish good relations with both local and international media correspondents and work in close collaboration with all other parts of our mission. Often I am involved in the coordination of major events and activities for UNAMID. I prepare information materials for the news media such as daily media briefs, press releases and information notes. I make sure all this material gets to the local and international media as well as monitor press coverage of UNAMID issues and events and keep a comprehensive media list. Then at times you need to roll with the punches as my duty station and section may face times of national crisis.

I have always wanted a career in communications that would allow me seize the opportunity to serve a greater cause. I was deeply involved with the Model United Nations in college. Before joining the United Nations, I worked for the Darfur Integrated Task Force which was part of the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), as their Communications Officer in Addis Ababa..

Life is full of challenges whether social or work related; therefore I try to work to the best of my knowledge and understanding the work, ethics, and magnitude of what is expected of me.

First I get home, reflect on the day’s work and how I can improve on other matters if any. Respect for diversity, good communication skills and good team effort and collaboration are key to working in the United Nations.