Magdeline M. Sekhu and Georgina Edwards are UN Volunteers in South Africa. They reflect on volunteering and how it brings positive change to the United Nations system in the country. This is their story.
Georgina Edwards, UN Volunteer Innovation Analyst with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in South Africa
After finishing my graduate degree, I interned with UN-Habitat and that set the stage for my UN career.
Transitioning to a UN Volunteer assignment in 2021 was a turning point, allowing me to step into my dream role as an Innovation Analyst with UNFPA.
A highlight of my role as an Innovation Analyst was to organize the UNFPA Harmful Practices Innovation Summit in Nairobi in 2023.
Bringing together diverse stakeholders, we addressed topics centered on women's rights. Contributing to and encouraging meaningful discussions at the summit was fulfilling.
As a UN Volunteer, I have had unforgettable experiences across East and Southern Africa. From innovation hack labs to missions in Kenya and Uganda, each opportunity broadened my horizons.
The volunteer journey has transformed me both personally and professionally. I have multiplied my networks, sharpened my project management skills, learned from colleagues, and deepened my understanding of global issues.
Driven by the values of volunteering — dedication and passion, I encourage others to follow suit.
Volunteering with the UN has reshaped my view on global challenges. I now grasp the complexities of international relations and organizational dynamics firsthand. I urge those considering volunteering with the UN to seize the chance when it comes." Georgina Edwards, UN Volunteer Innovation Analyst with UNFPA.
Georgina Edwards (left) UN Volunteer Innovation Analyst with UNFPA and Magdeline M. Sekhu (right) Programme Assistant, UN Women SAMCO. @UNV, 2024.
Magdeline M. Sekhu, UN Volunteer Programme Assistant with UN Women Southern Africa Multi-Country Office (SAMCO)
I began my journey as a UN Volunteer with the UN Women SAMCO in 2023.
With prior experience at USAID, UNHCR, and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, together with a graduate degree in global affairs, I was interested in contributing to the lives of women.
In South Africa, women face obstacles that limit their access to education, economic opportunities and safety. UN Women SAMCO's programmes aim to break down these barriers by giving women resources and adequate support — examples include the African Girls Can Code Initiative among others.
Magdeline M. Sekhu, UN Volunteer Programme Assistant with UN Women SAMCO. @UNV, 2024.
My role as Programme Assistant to the Deputy Representative and Head of Programmes involves coordinating activities, monitoring the progress of the programme, and engaging with stakeholders.
Our collective efforts resulted the training of more than 20,000 women entrepreneurs in leadership roles.
Hazel Gooding, Deputy Representative and Head of Programmes at UN Women SAMCO acknowledged my volunteering and quoted, "Magdeline has been an asset to our team, and we are enormously grateful for her UN Volunteer service."
Reflecting on my volunteering journey, one of the challenges has been addressing cultural norms as these hinder women's ability to determine their own life choices. That's why having patience and cultural sensitivity are so important.
By having trust and an open dialogue, we gradually dismantle barriers and propel meaningful change for women in South Africa. My journey with UN Women SAMCO demonstrates the power of collective action, learning and volunteering." Magdeline M. Sekhu, UN Volunteer Programme Assistant with UN Women SAMCO.