“My motivation comes from the fact that I am just human.”

UNICEF is saddened by the passing of Yvonne Paré, a driver at the Dori office, on August 3, 2024.

For over 9 years with UNICEF, Yvonne dedicated her life to serving the children of the Sahel, one of the most challenging regions in Burkina Faso. Read about her commitment here.

My name is Yvonne Paré, and I have been a driver in Dori since 2013. I have been doing humanitarian work for over 10 years. My motivation comes from the fact that I am just human.

I have children but I see children who have no dad or mom and who are suffering. I have myself suffered with my children. Therefore, I love helping children. It's not always easy to go out in the field. There is insecurity, there are fears, but we keep on.

As a driver, I take program colleagues in the field to provide assistance and care for children. It comforts me.

One day, the child of one of my neighbors fell ill and the family could not afford to treat him. I gave financial support to this family for an ambulance to take the child from Dori in the northeast of Burkina Faso to the capital Ouagadougou, about 265 km away, for the child to be given medical care.

When I wake up in the morning, I tell myself that I must do everything to reach the children and give them assistance.

No matter what, I must go to the end of my efforts and transport my colleagues to where those most in need are.