Step forward, lead and create a ripple of change—is the message from Olivia Okoronduo, UN Volunteer from Nigeria who serves as a Communications Officer in Lesotho. "Volunteering like a woman means wearing many hats, embracing challenges, and standing in spaces that weren’t always designed for you. And being a voice for those who are not heard." In the lead up to International Women's Day, we shine a spotlight on the incredible contributions of UN Volunteers around the globe, Olivia is one of them who leads the charge for change through volunteering—exemplifying the strength of collective action. This is Olivia's story.
My volunteering journey wasn’t a traditional one. I started as a journalist, chasing stories on the streets, driven by curiosity and the power of storytelling. But I wanted more than just reporting; I wanted to be part of the change. That’s when I found United Nations Volunteers. My first role was with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Nigeria, where I worked as a Communications Officer highlighting peace and justice under Sustainable Development Goal 16.
From my native country, Nigeria, volunteering took me to Lesotho. Now, I am a UN Volunteer with the World Health Organization (WHO) also as a Communications Officer.
Transitioning from national to international volunteer work wasn’t just about moving to a new country, it was about adapting to a completely different cultural and professional environment. It was about growing and proving that women belong at every level of decision-making.
Navigating communication in a multilingual space where I knew that to truly connect with people, I had to speak their language; not just in words, but in understanding. I started learning basic greetings, key phrases, and cultural nuances that allowed me to engage more effectively. And most importantly, overcoming stereotypes in leadership.
In many spaces, women are expected to play supporting roles rather than lead conversations, especially in technical sectors like public health and governance. I had to prove that my voice, my expertise, and my contributions were just as valuable.
One of the ways I broke this barrier was by taking ownership of major initiatives, like Walk the Talk campaign—a movement to encourage physical activity in the fight against non-communicable diseases. At first, it was just an idea, a small event to encourage UN staff and community members to stay active. But as more people saw its value, it grew into a nationwide movement, embraced by international organizations, local youth groups, and even the UN Resident Coordinator.
That’s what breaking barriers looks like: Taking an idea, driving it forward, and proving that women belong in leadership.
Step forward, even when it feels uncomfortable. Growth begins the moment you push past fear and doubt. Your work matters; even when the results aren’t immediate. The conversations you start, the awareness you raise, the stories you tell, they all create ripples of change.
Never wait for permission to lead. Volunteerism isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about seeing a problem and being bold enough to find a solution. I never imagined that my work, from fighting human trafficking in Nigeria to promoting vaccination campaigns in Lesotho, would impact so many lives. But here I am, and this is just the beginning.
To all the young women out there: Lead. Create. Break barriers. Walk the talk. The world needs more women who dare to show up.