Read about Mercy Christine Githinji

What brought you to a career in technology at the United Nations?

My passion for technology and my desire to make a meaningful impact on a global scale brought me to a career in technology at the United Nations. From an early age, I was fascinated by how technology can solve complex problems and improve people's lives. This interest led me to pursue a degree in Information Technology where I honed my skills in Networking and System Administration. I wanted to be part of an organization that leverages technology to tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges. Joining the UNON ICTS team allows me to use my technical and project management expertise and also grants me the opportunity to work on projects that have a tangible impact on communities worldwide. In summary, my journey to a career in technology at the UN is driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of technology to create positive change and a strong alignment with the UN's values and goals. I am excited to contribute my skills to an organization that is making a difference on a global scale.

What has been your favorite technology project or initiative at the United Nations and why? What was your contribution?

My favorite technology project was the rollout and implementation of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on the Nairobi campus for UN staff members. This project was significant in enhancing the security of user accounts and their data, particularly as we transition to cloud-based technologies where risks are heightened. As the project leader, I ensured effective communication with clients regarding the enforcement schedule for their accounts, organized comprehensive user training and support sessions, and provided hypercare for clients post-MFA implementation. In addition to leading the project team, I collaborated with various stakeholders, including IT colleagues and departmental heads, to ensure a seamless integration of MFA. To measure the success of the implementation, I established key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly reviewed the project's progress. The feedback from staff members was overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the enhanced security feature. Overall, the successful implementation of MFA on the Nairobi campus was a testament to the collaborative efforts of our team and the commitment of UN staff members to embracing new technologies for a safer digital environment.

What advice would you give women interested in pursuing a field in technology?

encourage women to jump into the technology field, as it offers vast and diverse opportunities across many areas. Dive into the research of the various fields within technology, from software development and data science to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, find what excites you the most and pursue it with dedication and passion. By focusing on what you love, you can build a fulfilling and successful career in technology.