What began as a simple online application turned into a transformative journey across continents. From advising microfinance banks in Mozambique to managing budgets for multimillion-dollar health programmes in Angola to supporting development initiatives in Guinea-Bissau, Malawi, and São Tomé and Príncipe, and now leading the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) efforts in Kazakhstan, this is my story. And it started off as a volunteer in the United Nations system.
I’m Katarzyna Wawiernia from Poland. My volunteer journey began with a simple step: I applied. At the time, I was working in northern Mozambique as a microfinance advisor, helping five local banks support income-generating projects for people living in poverty. When I saw the UN Volunteers ad, I went for it. Despite the myth that joining the United Nations is tough, my process was smooth—just a few exams and I was in.
In 2005, I became a UN Volunteer in Angola, helping manage Global Fund grants to fight malaria, HIV, and TB. As a capacity-building and procurement officer, I handled big budgets and helped set up regional labs across the country.
What surprised me most? I was treated like any other UNDP team member. Even as a volunteer, I was trusted to manage a budget for $20 million a year, working side by side with local colleagues. I traveled widely, connected with communities and health workers, and dove deep into UNDP systems—learning the ropes and reaching out to headquarters when needed.
My role as a UN Volunteer directly supported the United Nations' pillars of peace and development. Angola was a post-conflict country at the time, with many regions still bearing the scars of war. Despite being rich in oil and gas, local communities faced numerous challenges. Providing health workers with essential tools and equipment was incredibly rewarding, as it directly contributed to the nation's peace and development efforts.
There were challenges, yes—but never a moment when I felt left out. On the contrary, I felt honoured to carry real responsibility as an international volunteer, knowing my work truly mattered.
At first, working with people from different cultures was a bit tricky, but also a learning experience. I learned to slow down, listen more, and think before acting—something that didn’t come naturally to me. Surprisingly, many issues seemed to resolve themselves when I stepped back, which taught me the value of patience and reflection.
Angola left a deep impression on me. The energy, the music, the colours of the landscape, and the laughter of children created a joyful and welcoming atmosphere. The country was growing rapidly at the time, with development and construction happening everywhere. What we could offer in return were practical tools—good advice, strong processes, and skilled people ready to help.
My experience as a UN Volunteer has been pivotal in shaping both my personal and professional growth. After a year and a half in this role, I felt exceptionally well-prepared to face future challenges and successfully competed for an international professional position. The experiences along the way helped my transition to a dedicated international civil servant, resolute in achieving results and unwavering in my commitment.
If I hadn’t started out as a UN Volunteer, I’m not sure I would’ve found the same sense of purpose in my UNDP career. Working directly with communities and those most in need gave me a deep connection to the mission—one that’s guided me ever since. That time in the field taught me how to be resourceful and careful with budgets, lessons that have shaped how I manage programmes today.
My 23 years of experience across Africa gave me a strong grasp of the practical challenges and everyday realities of our work. Starting from scratch, I learned that when you set yourself a goal, a change, a difference, everything is possible.
Kazakhstan, a high middle-income country, has seen rapid progress in recent years, particularly in its reforms. UNDP plays a crucial role here as a knowledge broker and provider of best practices for development excellence. Even in a different setting, the urgency I carried from post-conflict operations still drives me. I try to pass that mindset on to my colleagues, because knowing when to act quickly can make all the difference.
In my heart, I remain a volunteer. This spirit has accompanied me throughout my career. To those passionate about global change, my message is simple: pursue your dreams and vocations, not positions or success. Opportunities will naturally follow.
From the dusty roads of Mozambique to the policy halls of Kazakhstan, each step—whether in Angola, Guinea-Bissau, Malawi, or São Tomé and Príncipe—became a journey that spanned countries and causes. Starting as a UN Volunteer, I learned that real leadership is rooted in service, and that following your passion with humility can take you further than you ever imagined.
I may wear the title of Resident Representative today, but at my core, I remain a volunteer—committed to change, grounded in community, and inspired by the power of possibility.