Kiran Fatima

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

I joined the UN because I wanted a job that went beyond just applying my skillsﾗI wanted to be part of something bigger and to contribute to making the world a better place. Working in the OICT communications team at the UN has given me a platform where I find myself doing what I have loved my whole lifeﾗart and designﾗwith the satisfaction of knowing that those skills contribute to technology projects that enable the digital transformation of the UN, ultimately improving lives worldwide. Itﾒs incredibly rewarding to be part of an Organization that addresses global challenges and promotes peace.

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

As the OICT Communications and Outreach team lead at the UN, I have the privilege of working with an exceptional team of creatives, and we are constantly making a tangible impact. Together, we help our technology teams communicate a wide range of digital projects across diverse sections and divisions within OICTﾗas well as audiences both internal and external to the UN. As the graphic designer for OICT comms team, I help craft designs and illustrations that promote the effectiveness of communication, foster engagement and contribute to the overall digital presence of the UN. Currently, Iﾒm super proud to be running this 'Women in Technology' campaign with my team that impresses upon the important role women play working in technology fields across the UN Secretariat. Our goal is to highlight their personal and technological contributions to our readers worldwide and consequently enhance gender parity at the UN. As a woman working in technology at the UN for the past 15 years, Iﾒm glad to be in a place that embraces diversities and celebrates our differences, and provides opportunities for positive global collaboration.

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

Technology is this unstoppable ever-changing force that's constantly influencing our lives. We can't just be passive spectators in this era of digital advancement. We've got to be active participants. We need to work together to make sure that as technology grows, it does so in a conscientious and ethical way, and is inclusive and accessible. So, get involved and be inspired with all that is around usﾗpeople we meet, sights of nature, sounds that stir our souls and even the random thoughts and opinions that come our way. Design your own path and use your skills to shape the world for a better tomorrow.