I'm an open-minded young lady from Somalia. I'm committed to personal and societal development and striving to make a positive impact. I'm a change agent dedicated to advocating for children’s rights, well-being, justice, and a good life for all.
Notably, I am a proud member of a group of students awarded a partial scholarship from UNICEF to attend university. This prestigious opportunity, which took hard work to achieve, has not only shaped my educational journey but has also further fueled my passion for social work. The day I graduated from Mogadishu University, where I specialized in social work, I was resolute in my dedication to addressing social issues in my community.
Interning with purpose
Upon graduation, I worked hard to be accepted into an internship at UNICEF Somalia. The internship programme, called HIMILO, was established with the primary aim of attracting qualified Somali female graduates to work at the UNICEF Country Office. This initiative provides female students and recent graduates with the opportunity to acquire practical experience and learn from dynamic collaboration with professional team members. So far, 16 interns have been distributed across programme sectors within the organization. This internship programme is possible thanks to funding from the German Federal Foreign Office.
During my ongoing internship, I am exposed to the inner workings of a renowned international organization that promotes child rights and social justice. Collaborating with seasoned professionals and witnessing their dedication has deepened my commitment to this noble cause. Their mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in my learning journey, equipping me with practical skills and broadening my understanding of the complexities of addressing social issues, particularly those concerning child protection and gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and response efforts. Hands-on engagement with partners implementing these programs allows me to understand and contribute to the programs. In addition to that, my participation in valuable trainings for the “Gender-Based Violence Information Management System” (GBViMS+) and “Integrating Gender Into Humanitarian Work” has deepened my understanding and reinforced my commitment to advocate for the wellbeing of children, girls and women in Somalia, as well as globally.
Dreaming of tomorrow
Throughout my life, I have been inspired to work closely with UN agencies, particularly in areas where the rights and well-being of children and girls everywhere are at stake. As I continue to grow and learn within the UNICEF country office, I am actively building my career towards the wider UN system. This internship has expanded my understanding of the challenges communities face and equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to help address them effectively. I am driven to make a meaningful impact on a global scale, leveraging the UN system's reach and resources to promote child rights, gender equality and inclusive development. The transformative power of community work inspires me, and I am resolute in my commitment to making a lasting impact on development and sustainability. I eagerly look forward to collaborating with UN agencies and like-minded individuals on this remarkable journey of change.
