Polina Koroleva

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

Since my bachelor's studies, I've been fascinated with the power of data science to provide insights from large and complex data sets. At the same time, sustainability and a healthy environment have always been core values dear to my heart. Our planet needs these well-informed decisions and actions as never before. I believe that digital technology can help us achieve a green and sustainable future. UNEP is where I can apply my data and environmental expertise toward sustainable digitalization and digital sustainability. The broad network and powerful tools of the United Nations are an excellent platform for aligning digital and sustainable transformations at the global level. And I'm excited to be a part of it.

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

My two favorite projects at UNEP are digital education and knowledge management. I coordinate Digital Discovery sessions where we deep dive into a specific application of digital technology, human-centered design, and behavioral science for the environment. I also collect, organize and analyze data on digital outputs across UNEP. This information helps to track the progress of digital products and services development across divisions and regions - and to meet the outcomes of the Medium-Term Strategy.

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

Don't be afraid to take the first step - curiosity will do the rest.