Read about Ruth Mary Kemigisha

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

I am excited to share a significant step in my professional journey. As a nurse working with MONUSCO (the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo), I have embarked on a transformative path by pursuing studies in health informatics and data analytics in my final year, embracing the role of a woman in technology. My decision to delve into the field of health informatics is fueled by a deep-seated passion for leveraging technology to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Working at the intersection of nursing and technology, I am committed to bridging the gap between patient care and innovative solutions. Studying health informatics has allowed me to combine my clinical expertise with cutting-edge technologies, enabling me to contribute to the digital transformation of healthcare within the UN.

The power of data analytics in uncovering actionable insights and improving decision-making resonates with my commitment to delivering optimal care to those we serve. Being a woman in tech is an empowering endeavor. It's an opportunity to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and inspire the next generation of women to explore diverse roles in technology. My journey is not just about personal growth; it's a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity within the tech landscape.

I invite you to join me on this exciting venture. Let's collaborate, share insights, and collectively contribute to the #WomenInTech movement. By amplifying our voices and showcasing the impact of women in health informatics, we can inspire positive change and foster a supportive community within the UN and beyond.

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

I am delighted to offer you a glimpse into the future work as we embark on an exciting journey of developing our Pharmacy Inventory Management Tool—a revolutionary solution that will reshape how we manage pharmaceuticals within our Organization.

As we navigate through this ongoing project, I am actively involved in key areas, particularly focusing on inventory management, fast-moving medications, and addressing challenges related to first expiry, shortage, and available quantity. Inventory Management: Our upcoming tool is poised to introduce a state-of-the-art inventory management system. It will enable real-time tracking, providing us with accurate and up-to-date information on pharmaceutical stock levels.

This innovation is set to streamline our inventory processes, ensuring precision and efficiency in our day-to-day operations. Fast-Moving Medications: The tool places a special emphasis on the swift tracking and management of high-demand medications. This feature anticipates and addresses the unique requirements of fast-moving items, ensuring that we have timely access to crucial pharmaceuticals, thereby enhancing patient care and operational effectiveness. First Expiry, Shortage, Available Quantity: In the near future, our tool will comprehensively handle challenges related to first expiry, shortages, and available quantities. It will provide timely alerts for impending expiries, optimize reorder processes to address shortages, and offer clear visibility into the current available quantity of each medication. This functionality is designed to bring about proactive management of our pharmaceutical resources.

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

For women interested in pursuing a career in technology, I would offer the following advice:

• Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and believe that you have the potential to succeed in the field of technology. Embrace a growth mindset and understand that continuous learning is a key part of the journey.
• Explore Your Interests: Technology is a vast and diverse field. Explore different areas such as programming, data science, cybersecurity, UX/UI design, and more. Find what resonates with your interests and aligns with your career goals.
• Educate Yourself: Take advantage of online courses, workshops, and educational resources. Many platforms offer flexible learning options that cater to various skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or looking to upskill, there are resources available to suit your needs.
• Build a Support Network: Connect with other women in technology through networking events, online communities, and professional organizations. Building a support network can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and encouragement throughout your journey.
• Embrace Challenges: Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and tackle challenges. The tech industry is dynamic, and facing and overcoming challenges is an essential part of personal and professional growth.
• Seek Mentorship: Look for mentors who can offer guidance and share their experiences. Having a mentor can provide valuable insights, advice, and a supportive perspective as you navigate your career in technology.
• Stay Curious: Technology is constantly evolving, so maintain a curious mindset. Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices. This curiosity will drive continuous learning and adaptation.
• Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills and projects through a portfolio. Whether it's coding projects, design work, or any other tech-related endeavor, having a portfolio can be a powerful way to demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.
• Advocate for Yourself: Learn to advocate for your ideas and contributions. Don't hesitate to showcase your achievements and take credit for your work. Your voice and perspective are valuable in shaping the technology landscape.
• It's Never Too Late: Remember that it's never too late to pursue a career in technology. Skills and passion matter more than age or background. The tech industry values diverse perspectives, and your unique experiences can be a strength in this field.