“If you can conceive it, you can achieve it” - the journey of Bartholomew Maida
In the backdrop of growing up in Malawi, Bartholomew Maida's story shines as a beacon of hope and positivity. The 35-year-old national UN Volunteer serves with the UN Development Programme in Malawi. He is a Programme Finance Officer in the Monitoring and Evaluation Unit.
Bartholomew collects and analyzes reporting data to evaluate programme effectiveness. He also assists in reviewing the country office dashboard for operations and programmes, which helps to manage data and information. His contributions have streamlined UNDP programmes in Malawi, ensuring transparency and financial stability.
Bartholomew is a young passionate individual, aspiring to attain global justice. He sees volunteering with UNDP as a platform – not only realize his own dreams, but also to pave the way for others and create a better world.
Bartholomew collects and analyzes reporting data to evaluate programme effectiveness. He also assists in reviewing the country office dashboard for operations and programmes, which helps to manage data and information. His contributions have streamlined UNDP programmes in Malawi, ensuring transparency and financial stability.
Bartholomew is a young passionate individual, aspiring to attain global justice. He sees volunteering with UNDP as a platform – not only realize his own dreams, but also to pave the way for others and create a better world.
Bartholomew believes that disability is often a state of mind. Sometimes, there are physical barriers. For Bartholomew, who uses a wheelchair, moving between buildings during the rainy season was particularly daunting. Determined to remain connected with his colleagues, he used online platforms to bridge the physical gap.
Bartholomew credits many people who have helped him on his volunteer journey. UNDP Resident Representative Shigeki Komatsubara led by example, welcoming Bartholomew to the team. Deputy Resident Representative Challa Getachew provided essential guidance to help him settle in, and Bartholomew's supervisor, Peter Kulemeka, became a patient mentor.
Bartholomew fondly speaks of his daily interactions with his colleagues, calling them “some of the finest minds, who have provided me with invaluable learning experiences.”
He says that his experience as a volunteer not only enriched his professional knowledge but also empowered him, personally and financially.
This article was produced with the kind support of Vibhu Sharma, UN Volunteer Communications Specialist - Disability Inclusion. Find out more on how to become a UN Volunteer or engage a UN Volunteer.
