LocationsJPO Story - Johanna Brogaard
September 18, 2024
Group photo of UNDP Algeria colleagues at farewell ceremony for RR Blerta Aliko
What is your educational background?
I hold a Master in Political Science from the University of Copenhagen with a specialisation in International Relations, Diplomacy and Conflict Studies. During my studies, I did an exchange semester in Mexico as well as two internships at the Danish Institute for Human Rights and the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen.
What made you apply to the JPO programme/what is your motivation to work with your UN agency?
I have always had a strong wish to work in the development and/or humanitarian fields, and working for the UN in particular has been a rather utopian dream. I applied to the JPO Programme, because it offers a unique entry-point to the UN system for young, early-career candidates like myself with limited experience, but a strong wish to work for the UN. I am therefore extremely grateful to have been offered this position at UNDP Algeria and enjoy the privileges of being part of the JPO Programme in terms of the many opportunities for professional and personal growth.
What are the main activities/tasks you are working on? What is a day at the office/in the field like?
I work closely with the Resident Representative, the Deputy Resident Representative and Senior Management Team to support the overall programme development and implementation. I support on a broad range of tasks, including Results-Based Management (oversight, accountability, quality assurance and donor reporting), Knowledge Management, Partnerships, Strategy, Communication, Recruitment as well as on implementation of projects in the ‘Nature, Climate and Energy’ and ‘Democratic Governance’ portfolios.
I really enjoy working with such varied tasks, because it allows me to learn and expand my skill-set every day. Being involved in so many different tasks definitely keeps me (very) busy, but it never gets boring.
Johanna Brogaard, Programme Analyst UNDP Algeria
What is the most challenging project that you have worked on/are working on?
As I am only 6 months into my JPO assignment, I have not worked on many projects yet. The project that I am currently most involved in is the finalisation of the Algeria National Human Development Report (NHDR). The report is written by a national partner in close collaboration with UNDP Algeria, and it is really an interesting and challenging experience to work on such an important UNDP knowledge product and being co-responsible of leading and coordinating all steps of the process, including finalisation of content; various consultations, reviews and quality assurance requirements; ensuring proper translation, copy-editing, lay outing; preparing the launch etc.
What has been the most rewarding experience to date for you at your duty station? (work and/or non-work related)
So many rewarding experiences could be mentioned, but if I should highlight only one thing, it must be the heartwarming welcoming attitude of Algerians – both in terms of wonderful colleagues, who are always there with a helping hand or a fun joke to lighten up a busy work day, and in terms of all the Algerians that I meet everyday on my way to/from work, in shops and restaurants and on my travels around the country. I am always welcomed with kindness and big smiles, and that is truly remarkable.
What set of skills have you developed most throughout your assignment?
In this JPO assignment, I am learning in so many ways. In terms of professional skills, I am especially developing my intercultural and interpersonal competencies as well as strong coordination and project management skills. Linguistically, I am slowly, but steadily learning French (and a tiny bit of Algerian Arabic 😊). And on a personal level, my patience, curiosity, and gratitude are at play on a daily basis in the enriching encounter with such an interesting and different culture as the Algerian one.
What piece of advice would you give to those who are considering applying to the JPO Programme?
Do it! Even if the application process is heavy and it may take a few tries, it is really worth it. The JPO experience is a unique opportunity for professional and personal growth, and you will learn so much about the UN organisation that you are working for, the country and culture that you live in and – maybe most importantly – about yourself, your values, and your future life and career aspirations.
How do you feel your JPO assignment will influence your career choices/opportunities within the UN?
Being accepted to the JPO Programme is a big privilege because I have the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of what working for the UNDP means in practice. I am grateful for the experience and hope that my JPO assignment at UNDP Algeria will be the first step in a long career in the field of development – whether in the UNDP, in the broader UN system or other development organisations.
Jóhanna and colleagues in the garden of the UNDP Algeria office
Do you feel that you are part of a community of purpose?
Yes, very much indeed. In a world that is currently marked by increasing conflict, climate emergencies, uneven development progress and escalating political polarization, I am honoured to work for an organisation that strives to change the world for the better. Even though the concrete actions that I do in my little corner of UNDP does not save the world, I am proud of the work that I and all my colleagues – locally and globally – do every day for a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world.
My JPO journey has been super intense, challenging, fun and extremely valuable learning experience.Johanna Brogaard
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