From childhood dreams to child advocacy: Why I do this work

Hi! I’m Firhaana Bulbulia, UNICEF ECA’s Youth Engagement/Child Participation Officer!

Since I was a child, I’ve always been deeply concerned about social issues that impact children negatively. I have fond memories of being a 10-year-old girl, writing and drawing out project ideas to help solve problems that I saw children facing. I created a small money box, where I would put aside coins to donate to organisations when I got older. Ironically, UNICEF was at the top of the list, and the little box with UNICEF’s logo on it, is still among my most treasured possessions today.

For me, working for UNICEF, is an opportunity to do what I love the most, support children and learn from their limitless mindsets. I have the honour to work with amazing colleagues, who truly put children first. My job is hard work, but it’s also “heart work”.

As much as it’s rewarding, it isn’t always easy. The more we learn about issues and try to solve them, the more we realise that societies are complex and every day we delay in finding solutions, is another day where a child’s life is being impacted in a significant way. Sometimes, I do ask myself, are we really making a difference? But then, I look around at the young leaders, trailblazers, visionaries who are deeply touched by our work, and I’m comforted in the fact that in a world where they may be uncertainties, UNICEF has always and will always stand firmly for children. This is who we are.

Outside of working hours, I’m spending time with my daughter and son. Whether it’s outdoors playing cricket or flying kites, making crafts, whipping up something in the kitchen or simply reading their favourite book, you will find me in mom-mode!