1. What attracted you to the NETI Programme?

I was attracted to the opportunity of entering UNICEF as an international staff member and to the exposure of working with UNICEF through the NETI Programme. Also, the structure of the NETI Programme was attractive as it provides opportunities for professional and personal development.

2. What was your role as a NETI participant with UNICEF?

After spending 2 months at the UNICEF Headquarters in New York, I moved to the Regional Office for The Americas and the Caribbean in Panama in a dual Communication and Communication for Development (C4D) role.

3. What were the daily responsibilities at your position?

As a Communication for Development Specialist (C4D) I was responsible for the development and implementation of evidenced-based communication and social mobilization strategies for health campaigns (such as immunization), as well as health and nutrition community-based C4D interventions. I also provided C4D support to the Education and Child Protection sections and to the Deputy Representative.

4. How do you think the NETI Programme has helped you with your career?

The NETI Programme has given me the exposure and also the platform to enter UNICEF as fixed-term staff. Through the NETI Programme, I entered UNICEF at a time when the roll out of the recommendations of the organization review was starting to take place, so it was a good time to enter the organization and to learn about the changes taking place.

5. What drew you to a career with UNICEF?

Growing up I was familiar with UNICEF's work in India. I wasn't always sure I wanted to work for UNICEF but I was quite interested in humanities and social sciences and I knew I wanted to work in development. My first experience in UNICEF was as a National Officer in India, and I enjoyed it and learned a lot.

6. What is your advice for someone interested in working for UNICEF?

It is important for someone interested in working for UNICEF to be a specialist in their field but also not to be restricted to it.