Years later, she did something few people do. She returned—not to her own safety, but to instability. This time, not as someone needing help, but as someone ready to carry weight.

“I proactively engaged external stakeholders, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and private sector partners, to explore collaboration,” 

Co-creating the futureThe seed planted in me by my father’s passion and by volunteering itself remains central throughout my career. Volunteering, I believe, turns people from passive recipients of development into co-creators of their futures. It builds sustainable solutions because communities own them, not because they receive them.

Working across UN headquarters and country offices, I have been inspired by countless colleagues who dedicate themselves to impact. But inspiration also comes from outside the UN. When I travel to communities across Malawi or speak with mothers, farmers, entrepreneurs and people building better lives for their families, I am reminded why I do this work; not because of a job title, but because of a calling that began as many meaningful things do, with volunteering.A volunteer at heart

As the UN advances its UN 2.0 vision—more innovative, data‑driven and future‑focused—these stories remind us that change is ultimately powered by people. Volunteerism bridges global goals and local realities, turning the Sustainable Development Goals into lived experiences and offering a powerful call to action: to place service, solidarity and collective action at the center of efforts for peace, development and a more just world.

Finding purpose through service, I didn’t start volunteering with a grand plan. I joined organisations like Transparency International and Amnesty International because I cared about their causes and wanted to help. What I didn’t realize then was how much those experiences would define my future. 

Finding my callingAs a young girl, I often questioned the inequalities I saw around me. I watched girls my age held back by barriers such as exclusion and lack of opportunity, and I knew something had to change. I felt drawn to act. That curiosity grew into a calling. I sought spaces where I could contribute meaningfully, helping others overcome the obstacles in their way. What started as compassion became a lifelong mission to expand opportunity for those too often left behind. 

"My day usually begins around 7:20 in the morning. I arrive at the office, review my task list, and adjust priorities before meetings begin. A cup of black coffee helps me focus. Early childhood development work moves quickly because it connects many sectors at once. No single programme can support a young child alone. Nutrition affects brain growth. Health services prevent lifelong complications. Safe water reduces disease. Early learning shapes cognitive and social skills. Protection ensures safety and dignity. My work brings these pieces together.