At the bottom of this article, you will find the translation into the other working languages of the ILO.
What prompted you to join the Staff Union and become a full member?
I chose to join the Union and become a full member because I believe in the strength of collective representation to address workplace issues. I believe that having a unified voice allows us to advocate for fair treatment, equal opportunities, and better working conditions. In light of this, I believe that the Union is the best platform and serves as a platform where members can raise concerns, collaborate on solutions, and ensure our rights are upheld within the organization.
For me, being part of the ILO CO – Addis Staff Union Committee also provides a sense of community and solidarity that’s invaluable. Connecting with colleagues who share similar challenges creates a supportive network, and this camaraderie not only strengthens our professional relationships but also empowers us to engage actively in discussions and initiatives that promote our collective well-being and interests in the workplace.
What does Staff Union involvement mean to you?
Union commitment, to me, is about having a genuine responsibility toward creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and protected. It’s about showing up, not just in words but in actions, to ensure that fairness, respect, and transparency are upheld. When I think of commitment, I see it as a promise to stand by my colleagues, to listen to their concerns, and to advocate for positive changes that make our working environment a better place for everyone.
At its core, this commitment is about solidarity and the willingness to put in the time and effort, even when it’s challenging. It’s about not shying away from tough conversations or giving up when things get complicated. Being committed to the Union means believing that together we can make a real difference, however small, and actively participating in that change. It’s about working for the collective good while keeping individual needs in mind, building trust and a sense of purpose that we can all rally behind.
You’ve just attended your first regional meeting, barely a month ago. What feedback would you like to give and what were your impressions?
Attending the first regional meeting was truly eye-opening; it underscored how vital collaboration and open discussion are within the Union. The meeting’s structure allowed us to voice real concerns and exchange ideas on issues that impact us all. I was particularly struck by the leadership’s dedication to addressing the challenges staff face and their proactive approach to finding solutions, which created a genuine sense of optimism and unity among everyone there.
The networking opportunities were equally valuable. Connecting with colleagues from different offices allowed us to share insights and practical approaches that broadened our understanding of how issues play out across the region. These exchanges of best practices were not only informative but also encouraged a sense of mutual support and solidarity, which I think is key to our collective strength.
In the end, the meeting left me with a renewed appreciation for our Union’s role in advocating for our rights and improving our work environment. I came away motivated, feeling that by committing to the Union’s goals, we can make meaningful strides together toward the changes we want to see.
What message would you like to pass on to all the colleagues in your African region as your new representative?
As a new representative, my main message to colleagues across the Africa region and beyond is that our strength lies in unity and open communication, I know so because I am a communications expert working as one 😊. Each of us brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table, and by staying connected and supporting each other, we can create a work environment that’s fair, supportive, and responsive to our needs. I believe that no issue is too small to address, and I’m here to listen and to ensure our collective voice is heard.
I also want to emphasize that we’re all in this together. My role isn’t just about advocating for you; it’s about working with you, understanding the challenges you face, and finding practical ways to make a difference. We have a lot we can achieve as a team, and I’m committed to being approachable, transparent, and focused on the goals we set together. Let’s make the most of this opportunity to support each other and build a workplace that reflects our values and aspirations.
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Version française (deepl): ici
Spanish version (deepl) : aquì
Very nice article, thank you