What is your educational background?

I studied development studies and governance at the Institute of Developing Economies Advanced School in Chiba, Japan and at the University College of London where I got my MSc.
I also ha a bachelor’s degree in law by Waseda University in Tokyo.

What made you apply to the JPO programme? 

I have been pursuing my career in the field of international development, and I believe UNDP is a leading agency in this area, especially in the area of democratic governance. Furthermore, when I worked for Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), I collaborated with UNDP Iraq team and impressed UNDP actively engaged in a difficult situation with various team members.

What kind of advice would you give to those who are considering applying to the JPO Programme?

The JPO programme is the best entry point to UN system. You can acquire a number of precious opportunities and experiences through JPO assignment. Be proactive and maintain a good relationship with your team and counterparts, so that you can find more opportunities of works on your assignment.

How do you feel your JPO assignment will influence your career choices/opportunities within the UN?

The JPO programme offered me my first work experience in UN system. I could observe how UNDP works for the country as well as its challenges. This would help me to decide my next step in my career path. I reconfirmed my preference to work closely with my counterparts and beneficiaries at country level, and wish to continue my career in UNDP to contribute more to people in needs. 

What are the main activities/tasks you are working on? 

As a programme analyst in the inclusive growth unit, I currently work for project management and take care of 6 development projects with focus on governance sector. My assignment includes designing and drafting project-related documents, quality assurance, liaising with donors and the national counterparts, reporting and M&E. On a daily basis, I closely communicate with my counterpart in the government to ensure the projects are on track and delivering results as planned.

What has been the most rewarding experience to date for you at your duty station?

When I visited a project site and heard a voice of a beneficiary, I felt rewarded most. For example, I coordinated a study tour from Iraq to family courts in Egypt to show achievements of our project “Support to Legal Aid and Dispute Settlement in Family Courts”. I could see legal aid offices supported by UNDP working well for Egyptian women. The smiles of beneficiaries always motivate me.