I am Dorice Mkiva, UN Volunteer Knowledge Management Officer with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Dar e Salaam, Tanzania. My inspiration comes from never giving up and that's the message I give to everyone—fight for your dreams.
In a society that often lacks trust in young people, it’s much worse for young persons with disabilities. I have a physical disability since I was three years old and started using crutches to walk at the age of twelve.
A moment marked my life—in a way like never before. After completing my university studies in 2016 with outstanding academic performance, I eagerly went to an organization to offer my time as a volunteer, asking for nothing in return but the opportunity to strengthen my skills. But I was rejected based on how I looked, young, disabled, and, in the eyes of the world, incapable.
That very moment ignited something in my heart, a fire!
My disability does not define me. What truly defines me is my passion in persistently chasing my dreams. I had promised myself that one day I would be on a global platform, not seen as someone young or disabled. I will be seen as an equal because of what I can contribute.
I work on capacity-building programmes and help staff efficiently share and retain knowledge through UNICEF’s systems. I am also the Secretary of the Knowledge Management Steering Committee at the office chaired by the Deputy Country Representative. I started a weekly help desk session where I regularly assist colleagues with technical challenges in using Microsoft 365 tools. What’s incredible is that I, a young woman with a disability, help senior staff members, many of whom are people of a mature age group overcome their challenges with technology.
This is truly an intergenerational collaboration. Allowing young people to share skills in technology with older colleagues and older colleagues to pass down their wisdom and experience, we blend fresh, innovative ideas with deep institutional knowledge.
However, we must acknowledge that intergenerational partnerships have their challenges. Communication barriers arise. The mature generation prefers in-person meetings and a slower, more measured approach. Young people lean towards digital communication and for rapid tech changes.
Even in decision-making, finding balance can be difficult. Older colleagues prioritize long-term systemic change while the younger generation seeks immediate results. We need platforms for intergenerational skills learning.
Promoting inclusive representation with mutual respect, understanding, and the recognition that each generation has something valuable to add in building a future reflective of all voices.
Volunteerism is a powerful tool for true sustainable development on the ground and gives young people opportunities to gain skills, experience, and a sense of responsibility toward society.
Reflecting on my own experience as a UN Volunteer, I have seen firsthand how volunteerism shapes youth positively. I am proof that when we break down barriers, when we stop seeing differences as limitations, we build a future where everyone regardless of age or ability, can thrive.
Dorice Mkiva spoke at the Summit of the Future in New York. @UNV, 2024.
Dorice Mkiva is based with UNICEF in Dar e Salaam. @UNICEF, 2023.
Dorice Mkiva spoke at #YouthLead to kick off the Summit of the Future in New York on 20 September, 2024. More information on the summit can be found here.