Read about Suha Al-Karram

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

With a Computer Engineering degree and having worked for the private sector, I wanted to use my skills and knowledge to encourage innovation through technology and have a significant global influence.
The United Nations' mission for advancing peace, human rights, and sustainable development aligns with my values and I believe understanding information systems is crucial for enhancing the well-being of people everywhere. Technology is a powerful instrument to support these initiatives by broadening views and problem-solving approaches.

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

Throughout my career of more than 29 years at the United Nations, I have worked on many projects in different capacities. Starting in MINURSO, I developed custom software for the Identification Commission and Appeals process, UNHCR and Mine Action. Then in ONUCI, I developed various databases and information systems for all sections including electoral, Medical, Conduct & Disciple, Public Information, JMAC, Personnel and Finance). In addition to the deployment of mission critical applications like UMOJA and iNeed. In UNFICYP, as Chief of Service Management, one of the interesting projects was to supervise the digitization process of 6 decades of the Mission’s archives since its establishment in 1964.

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

Be confident in your skill set, gain knowledge to empower yourself, and don’t hesitate to point out your own achievements.