Faith Makena Kendi

Why did you decide on a career at the UN?

As a woman in the field of information technology, my journey to the United Nations was fueled by a deep passion for leveraging technology to address global challenges. Growing up, I was always fascinated by how technology could bring people together, bridge gaps, and create solutions for pressing issues. This interest propelled me to pursue a diploma in computer science, where I discovered the vast potential of IT in shaping policy and improving lives. My desire to work in an international context, where I could apply my skills for the greater good, led me to the UN, an organization that embodies these values.

At the UN, I found an inspiring environment that champions diversity and inclusion, particularly in tech roles. The organization's commitment to gender equality resonated with me, as I witnessed firsthand the barriers women often face in technology. I was motivated to be part of a team that not only advocates for women's empowerment but also integrates diverse perspectives into technology solutions. Working alongside talented individuals from various backgrounds reinforced my belief in the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals.

Ultimately, my role at the United Nations has allowed me to combine my technical expertise with my passion for social impact. Whether it's developing digital tools to enhance communication, implementing data-driven solutions for humanitarian efforts, or advocating for policy changes that support equitable access to technology, I am proud to contribute to initiatives that make a real difference. Being part of a global organization dedicated to fostering peace, security, and human rights inspires me every day and drives my commitment to using technology as a force for positive change.

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

One of my favorite technology initiatives at the United Nations has been my role in enhancing video teleconferencing services to improve communication and collaboration among various agencies and organizations. In a global setting where timely information sharing is crucial, these services became essential for coordinating responses during crises. By facilitating seamless virtual meetings, we aimed to ensure that decision-makers had access to real-time discussions, enabling them to allocate resources more effectively and respond swiftly to emerging challenges.

My contribution involved not only managing the technical aspects of video teleconferencing but also ensuring that the systems were user-friendly and reliable. I worked closely with colleagues across different departments to understand their specific needs and preferences, adjusting the platform as necessary. This required both technical expertise and a strong grasp of the operational environment, ensuring that users felt supported and confident during critical meetings. It was rewarding to see how effective communication could lead to quicker, more informed decisions.

A key component of my role also included training and capacity-building. I organized workshops and training sessions to help staff effectively use the video teleconferencing tools, empowering them to leverage technology for better collaboration. Witnessing participants gain confidence in using these platforms was particularly fulfilling, as it reinforced the importance of not just providing technology but also ensuring it is accessible and understandable for everyone, regardless of their tech background.

Ultimately, the success of the video teleconferencing services was evident in the positive feedback from users, who reported that it significantly enhanced their ability to communicate and collaborate across borders. Knowing that my contributions helped facilitate critical discussions and strengthen partnerships during humanitarian efforts was incredibly fulfilling. This experience has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of technology and deepened my commitment to using my skills to foster global cooperation and positive change.

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

Women in IT solve real-world problems. Explore areas like data analysis, cybersecurity, and software development. Seek mentorship and network. Every expert was once a beginner—embrace challenges. Collaborate and grow in tech communities. Stay curious and believe in your abilities. Your unique perspective drives meaningful change. Engage, learn, and thrive.