For many, joining the United Nations is a lifelong dream, driven by the desire to create a global impact. However, it was the struggles of my own community that shaped my unique path. Growing up in northern Ghana - Tamale, I have witnessed firsthand how instability, inequality, exclusion, and stereotypes affected countless people and communities. I observed societal barriers stifle the dreams and aspirations of many minority groups. Yet, amidst these challenges, I observed remarkable resilience, perseverance, and a strong sense of community striving to succeed against all odds. These experiences ignited a fire in me to make a difference, inspiring me to study Law.

After completing my Bachelor of Laws (Honors), I stood at the crossroads, uncertain of what the future held. I embraced the opportunity to serve my country through a mandatory one-year national service program. Though I was anxious about where I would be posted, I approached it with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm, knowing it would be another chapter in my journey of personal and professional growth, allowing me to develop new skills, broaden my perspective, and further strengthen my dedication to serving others. Little did I know, this step would lead me to an unexpected and life-changing opportunity.

It was an utmost surprise realizing that I was posted to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), an organization I knew very little about. At first, I was overwhelmed and anxious as I was entirely unfamiliar with its work, and I had no idea what to expect. But after researching UNDP’s mandate and work, I realized that many of the developmental challenges I had long been passionate about—supporting vulnerable communities, promoting social justice, and advancing inclusive development—were at the core of UNDP's mission. At this time, I made a personal commitment to learn, actively contribute to the advancement of UNDP’s mission and to serve communities globally. 

This transformative chapter became more than just a duty; it was a crucible for growth. It challenged me to cultivate resilience, adapt to diverse environments, and hone skills that extended far beyond the theoretical frameworks of education. More importantly, it deepened my understanding of service and the impact of collective effort. Each day, I carried with me a deep sense of pride in how far I had come and an unwavering hope for what lay ahead.

Discovering My Purpose at UNDP

UNDP’s mission resonated deeply with me. Growing up in northern Ghana, I had seen how instability and lack of peace derailed development and deepened social inequalities and discovering that UNDP was actively working to address these very issues gave me a newfound sense of clarity and optimism. My experience with UNDP has been exciting and life-changing, filled with learning and development, alongside a unique opportunity to make real positive impacts, especially for vulnerable communities. From early days, I learned that adaptability and collaboration are key to success in a dynamic fast-paced environment like UNDP. Working with multiple programme managers and teams in a portfolio approach has exposed me to different components of developmental work and unique approaches to addressing challenges. Whether working on peacebuilding, local governance, human rights and inclusion of marginalized groups climate and environment, or health related initiatives, I have learned that drawing from vast perspectives and co-creating solutions with beneficiaries leads to more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable outcomes.

Despite the high demands and urgency of work, one thing that stands out is the organization's deep commitment to the personal and professional development of its #NexGen. From senior management to immediate line supervisors, there is a demonstrable and continuous sense of support and interest in our professional growth. Beyond delivery and achieving targets, UNDP creates an enabling environment for its future generation, strengthening youth capacity to inspire and lead. Along with many other young professionals, we have been given opportunities to lead, to be mentored, trained and  equipped with tools to drive real change.