Impactpool Career Podcast
80 episodes — Page 1 of 2
95. From 21 to 24.7: What CERN's Diversity Initiative Teaches Us About Culture Change
94. The Hidden Support System: How Governments Help You Land International Jobs

93. Inside Humanitarian Recruitment: How the Danish Refugee Council Hires for Crisis Zones
How does the Danish Refugee Council recruit for operations across 30+ countries, many in protracted conflict zones? Iosif Emmanouil Sofios, Recruitment Specialist at DRC, explains how to balance speed with safeguarding standards, what really matters beyond your CV, and why transferable skills from other sectors count more than you might think. Whether you're considering humanitarian work or curious about how global organizations build teams in challenging contexts, this conversation offers practical insights into what it takes to connect the right people with meaningful work serving displaced populations. Learn more about emergency rosters and rapid deployment, what DRC looks for in candidates, the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability, and AI in humanitarian recruitment. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

92. Navigating Uncertainty: Building a Resilient UN Career with Gerhard Tripp
What does it really take to build a meaningful career in the UN system? Join us as Gerhard Tripp, Chief of Planning, Contracting and Reporting at UNOV, shares nearly three decades of experience spanning four continents. From breaking in through the Young Professionals Programme to navigating field assignments in challenging duty stations, Gerhard offers honest insights on career flexibility, strategic applications, and the changing realities of UN employment. He also discusses his work with UNGlobe on building inclusive workplaces across the UN system. Whether you're considering your first UN application or looking to advance your international career, this conversation delivers practical wisdom you won't find in job descriptions. Key Topics: • Getting into the UN through YPP and other pathways • The value of field experience vs. headquarters positions • Funding realities and contract modalities • Language skills and cross-functional experience • Building inclusive workplaces through UNGlobe • Strategic application advice from an HR perspective Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

91. Why Your Onboarding Experience Matters More Than You Think!
Thinking about a career move? Before you accept that offer, there's one question you should be asking: What does onboarding look like here? In this episode, we meet with Meghan Parinussa, Director Customer Success at Appical about why onboarding isn't just something that happens TO you, it's a critical factor in YOUR success, job satisfaction, and decision to stay or leave. In this podcast you will learn: • Why those two months between accepting an offer and your first day are make-or-break • The "soft things" that create security (or anxiety) on day one, from dress codes to parking to laptop setup • What world-class onboarding actually looks like and what you should reasonably expect • How to evaluate onboarding during your interview process • The role your manager should play in your first 100 days • Why cultural integration matters more than information overload Whether you're actively job hunting or just curious about what separates great employers from mediocre ones, this conversation gives you the checklist to evaluate your next opportunity, and the confidence to expect better. Because when onboarding is done right, it's not just about helping the organization succeed. It's about your own success, your sense of belonging, and actually having fun in your new job. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

90. Career by Curiosity: Satu Santala on Climate Leadership at the NDF
How does a year in an Ethiopian village at age 22 shape a career leading international climate finance? In this episode, Satu Santala, Managing Director of the Nordic Development Fund (NDF), shares her unplanned journey from NGO work through diplomacy and the World Bank Board to her current role. Discover what makes NDF unique in the climate finance landscape, how to build a meaningful career in development without having it all planned out, and what it's like to work at a small, impactful Nordic institution in Helsinki. Satu offers practical advice on embracing opportunities outside your job description, the importance of genuine partnerships, and why curiosity matters more than rigid career planning. Whether you're exploring opportunities in climate finance or looking for career inspiration in the impact sector, this conversation offers valuable insights into building purpose-driven work in international development. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

89. Inside Humanitarian Recruitment at the UN with Liliana Nieves Paez
As the UN marks 80 years of service, Liliana Nieves shares what it really takes to build effective humanitarian teams. From recruiting during a cholera outbreak in South Sudan to achieving gender parity at UN headquarters, she reveals: ✅ Why emotional intelligence matters as much as technical skills ✅ How to tackle unconscious bias in hiring ✅ The direct link between strategic recruitment and mental health ✅ Why diversity isn't just nice to have—it's essential for effectiveness ✅ Real advice for breaking into humanitarian work "We're not only hiring skills, but a team's culture and the capacity to manage pressure. Hiring the right person means selecting individuals who have the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills to work effectively in high-stress environments." Whether you're considering humanitarian work or managing teams in challenging contexts, this conversation offers actionable insights on building teams that can handle the emotional demands of making a real difference. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

88. From P1 to D2: A UN Veteran's Journey Through Crisis and Change
Join us for an insightful conversation with Yvonne Helle, former UNDP special representative and senior leader who climbed from entry-level P1 to D2 over 31 years in the UN system. In this candid interview, Yvonne shares her experiences navigating some of the world's most challenging contexts—Haiti, Sudan, Palestine, and Syria—while offering practical career advice for international development professionals. Key topics covered: - Breaking the field-headquarters divide and why it matters for career growth - Leadership lessons learned in crisis zones - Navigating the P4-P5 transition and beyond - Balancing senior leadership roles with family life as a woman - The changing landscape of international development - Essential networking strategies and career advancement tips Why listen: Whether you're starting your career or aiming for senior leadership, Yvonne's combination of hard-won wisdom, honest reflections, and actionable advice provides invaluable insights for anyone working in—or considering—international development. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

87. Breaking the Myth: Your Guide to Working at INTERPOL
Think INTERPOL is just for cops chasing international criminals? Think again! Join us as we sit down with Danielle Garcia (Head of Talent Acquisition) and Magda Vigoureux (Assistant Director in Corporate Services) to reveal the surprising truth about careers at the world's largest international police organization. Discover how professionals from 138 nationalities contribute to global safety through roles in IT, finance, HR, project management, and more – no badge required! From Lyon's exceptional quality of life to career paths spanning three continents, learn what really attracts top talent and how you can stand out in your application. Whether you're just starting your career or looking for meaningful work with global impact, this episode demystifies INTERPOL and shows why your next career move could help make the world safer. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

86. From Intern to Executive: A Costa Rican Lawyer's Journey to Leading HR at the OECD
Ever wondered what it takes to reach the top at the OECD—the organization shaping global economic policy for 38 countries? Meet Daniel Fuster, Head of Human Resources at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, who transformed from a questioning young lawyer in Costa Rica to leading talent strategy at one of the world's most influential international bodies. Discover how the OECD's unique culture embraces non-linear career paths and why "pura vida" leadership is revolutionizing diversity in global policymaking. You'll learn: - How the OECD's "building better policies for better lives" mission attracts top talent - Inside access: The OECD runs 800+ internships annually (vs. typical 3-month programs elsewhere) - Why Costa Rica's recent OECD membership brings fresh perspective to global policy - The OECD's diversity revolution under Daniel's leadership - Your pathway into the organization that shapes economic policy worldwide Ready to unlock the doors to one of the world's most prestigious international organizations? Take a listen. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

85. Karim Benammar: Why This Amsterdam Philosopher Is Revolutionizing How We Think About Hiring
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Amsterdam-based philosopher Karim Benammar, who's challenging the very foundations of how we recruit and think about talent. In this episode, Karim shares his radical ideas about hiring – from why you should consider candidates who 'hate' your company to why university degrees might be completely irrelevant. Drawing on his international background, which spans England, America, Japan, and the Netherlands, as well as his experience working with the UN, Karim offers a fresh philosophical perspective on age-old HR problems. What you'll discover: - Why traditional CVs, interviews, and experience requirements are failing us - The "dating analogy" that reveals what's wrong with job interviews - How to shift from scarcity thinking to abundance thinking in recruitment - Why hiring people who disagree with you might be your best strategy - Practical experiments you can try in your next hiring process Whether you're an HR professional frustrated with traditional methods, a leader looking to build more diverse teams, or simply someone curious about questioning established systems, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and offer new ways of thinking about human potential. Karim Benammar, PhD, is an independent philosopher specializing in transformative thinking. Author of "Abundance" and "Reframing – The Art of Thinking Differently," he helps organizations question their fundamental assumptions through workshops and lectures across Europe. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

84. Pursuing a Career in Humanitarian Work: Pathways to Joining the ICRC
Ready to make a real impact? Join Mohini Ghai-Kramer, Head of Learning and Development at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), as she reveals what it really takes to break into humanitarian work. Discover the two distinct career pathways at ICRC - the specialist route for experts and the unique generalist path developed in-house. Learn about essential skills like intercultural competence and negotiation, plus get practical advice on transitioning into the sector. Mohini dispels common myths about humanitarian work (it's not just about good intentions!) and shares insights on ICRC's comprehensive learning ecosystem spanning 90 countries. Whether you're considering a career change or just starting out, this episode offers honest guidance on building a meaningful career that makes a genuine difference. Perfect for: Career changers, recent graduates, and anyone passionate about humanitarian impact. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

83. Breaking Barriers: How Neurodivergent Professionals can Thrive in International Organizations
Join Satomi Ogata, founder of Beyond Bias and late-diagnosed neurodivergent HR professional, as she shares 15 years of insights from international organizations. Discover why traditional DEI approaches often fail neurodivergent talent, learn practical strategies for creating truly inclusive workplaces, and get game-changing interview questions to evaluate potential employers. From Singapore to UN agencies in Denmark, Satomi reveals the gap between inclusion theory and practice—and offers universal design solutions that benefit everyone. Essential listening for neurodivergent professionals, HR practitioners, and anyone building careers in international development. Key takeaways: How to navigate disclosure decisions, spot genuinely inclusive employers, and why small workplace adjustments create massive impact. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

82. Building Highways of Knowledge: Exploring Careers at the European Southern Observatory
Join Fiona Brazil, Head of HR at the European Southern Observatory, for insights into careers building the world's most powerful telescopes. From 8-day shifts in Chile's Atacama Desert to engineering the "Extremely Large Telescope," discover what it's really like working for an organization that pushes the boundaries of human knowledge. Fiona shares practical advice on breaking into international scientific organizations and essential tips for authentic applications in the age of AI. Perfect for engineers seeking purpose-driven work or anyone curious about careers among the stars. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

81. How One WHO Staff Member Sparked a Global Movement
When WHO economist Tania Cernuschi couldn't sleep through her children's coughing in January 2025, she had an audacious idea: what if one billion people each donated just one dollar to support global health? Within days of launching the One World Movement, it was raising $10,000 daily and has now generated over $500,000 from 10,000+ supporters. In this episode, Tania and WHO Foundation's Sandra Sorial reveal how individual donations democratize global health funding, why multilateral cooperation benefits everyone (including your local pharmacy visits), and how this grassroots movement is creating unexpected pathways into global health careers. From midnight musings to a movement that's raised over $5 million, discover how small actions create big change in global health solidarity. Ready to make your voice heard? Every dollar counts at oneworldhealthforall.org Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

80. How Amar Bokhari Transformed His Family Business into a Social Enterprise Powerhouse
After 20 years at the United Nations, Amar Bokhari took a leap of faith to revitalize his family's textile business in Pakistan. In this episode, discover how he transformed a traditional rug company into a thriving social enterprise that employs 450 people, provides free education to 1,000 children, and operates on 100% solar power. Amar shares his unique perspective as a Norwegian-Pakistani entrepreneur and offers invaluable insights on balancing purpose with profitability. Whether you're an aspiring social entrepreneur or interested in sustainable business practices, this conversation provides both practical wisdom and inspiration for making business a force for good in the 21st century. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

79. Christel Adamou, OPEC Fund: Shaping International Development with a People-Centered Approach
Join us for an insightful conversation with Christel Adamou, HR Director at the OPEC Fund for International Development. Discover what makes this Vienna-based multilateral development bank unique, from its diverse workforce to its focus on impactful projects fighting poverty worldwide. Christel shares valuable career advice from her 20 years in international development, discusses entry pathways including internships and specialized programs, and reveals why Vienna offers an exceptional quality of life for international professionals. Whether you're considering a career in development or curious about multilateral institutions, this episode provides practical insights into making a global impact. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

78. IDB's Ines Olano Shares Insights on Cross-Cultural Leadership and Women's Development
In this episode of the Impactpool podcast series, we meet with Ines Olano, Chief of Talent Management at the Inter-American Development Bank. With 30 years of global experience at companies like Unilever, Bayer, and Honeywell, Ines shares insights on cross-cultural leadership, women's development initiatives, and her transition from corporate to development sectors. Learn about practical strategies for building professional networks, enhancing organizational culture, and measuring talent development success. Discover how personal values and international experience shape effective leadership in today's interconnected world. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

77. Sarah Clapham, OPCW: Neurodivergent woman breaking barriers in science and diplomacy
In this Impactpool podcast, we sit down with Sarah Clapham, Science Policy Officer at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Sarah shares her remarkable journey from chemistry researcher to international policy expert while offering valuable insights into navigating STEM fields as both a woman and a neurodivergent professional. Discover how Sarah's neurodivergent perspective brings unique strengths to her work translating complex scientific concepts for diplomats and policymakers. She discusses the challenges of gender bias in male-dominated environments, the progress she's witnessed throughout her career, and provides practical advice for aspiring women in STEM. This episode offers valuable perspectives on embracing neurodiversity in the workplace and creating more inclusive environments where diverse voices can drive innovation in science and global security. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

76. International Relocation and Driving Impact: A Look Inside AIIB with Scott Fitzgerald
In this episode we meet with Scott Fitzgerald, Head of Talent Acquisition at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. We speak about how this multilateral organization is powering sustainable infrastructure across Asia, from renewable energy in Kazakhstan to satellite connectivity in Indonesia. Scott shares insights from his journey from rural Canada to Beijing, offers practical advice on international relocation, and reveals what AIIB looks for in candidates during this period of rapid growth. Whether you're considering a career in development or curious about life abroad, this episode delivers valuable perspectives from a talent acquisition leader with truly global experience! Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

75. From Service Industry to UNICEF: How Eugenia Olliaro's early work shaped her Humanitarian Path
In this inspiring Impactpool Podcast, Eugenia Olliaro shares her remarkable career path from working in the service industry to becoming the Manager of Data Governance at UNICEF. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes Eugenia speaks about how her experiences across nearly ten countries shaped her perspective, from her early work with migrant communities to her roles as a UN Volunteer in Tajikistan and emergency response in Kenyan refugee camps. Throughout her journey, Eugenia highlights how connections with extraordinary people worldwide have been her greatest source of motivation. The episode offers valuable insights on personal growth in international development, with Eugenia open-heartedly discussing her decision to leave UNICEF to stay true to her values of the importance of continuous learning, self-reflection, and staying true to what drives you. A must-listen for anyone interested in humanitarian careers or seeking inspiration for their own personal development journey.

74. From Cultural Exchange to Global Impact: A Conversation with UNDP's Jean-Luc Marcelin
What does it take to build a career advancing sustainable development across cultures and continents? Hear Jean-Luc Marcelin, Talent Acquisition and Partnership Specialist at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) share his journey in international development and valuable insights for aspiring UN professionals! Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

73. Micheal Conneely - Director, Human Resources Management at UNIDO - Reimagining Careers and HR
From military service to managing global talent - in this episode, we meet with Micheal Conneely, Director of Human Resources Management at UNIDO. Micheal shares his fresh perspectives on how traditional career paths are evolving in international organizations; how to ensure promoting diversity and inclusion in a global workforce; the role of AI and automation in transforming HR practices and the current trends shaping the future of HR in international organizations. We speak about UNIDO's diverse work across more than 60 countries, from addressing world hunger through agribusiness initiatives to promoting sustainable industrial development and climate action, ensuring delivery of the mandate with a focus on mental health and employee wellbeing. Whether you're interested in international development or curious about the future of work, this episode offers unique insights into managing talent in a rapidly changing world! Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

72. Impactpool Podcast - An internship with the Green Climate Fund
In this episode, intern Emma Nijssen takes us behind the scenes at the Green Climate Fund (GCF), sharing insights from her roles in accreditation and investment operations. From navigating project partnerships to discovering unexpected career opportunities, Emma discusses what it really takes to join this unique climate finance institution and make the most of the experience. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

71. Daiga Barone - Talent Acquisition Team Lead at the ICC
In this Impactpool Podcast, we meet with the ICC's Talent Acquisition Team Lead, Daiga Barone. We look at the challenges and strategies of recruitment and human resources management; Daiga shares her own diverse career path, from the private sector to the public service of the ICC, and discusses the ICC's efforts to efficiently process a surge of job applications while ensuring diversity and inclusion in its workforce. Besides that, we speak about the potential use of AI in talent acquisition, the importance of employee well-being, and Daiga's approach to team management and personal development. Enjoy! Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

70. Michael Emery - Director, Division for Human Resources Management at the IOM
Impactpool meets with Michael Emery, Director, Division for Human Resources Management at IOM - UN Migration. Micheal has a long working history in HR and dare we say it, always interesting stories to share! In this podcast we speak about his broad experience as an HR director, his take on advancing an inclusive workplace; the positive impact the Covid pandemic may have had on staff wellbeing initiatives; and, the future of HR in international organizations. Of course, we take this opportunity to have Micheal advise on essentials when you are considering applying for the IOM. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

69. Sophie Rwegera Khadhraoui - Head of Staffing Division at the ICRC
In this podcast, we meet with Sophie Rwegera Khadhraoui who is the Head of Staffing Division at the International Committee of the Red Cross. In our discussion we touch upon Sophie’s career path in the ICRC, the insights that data analytics bring in the decision-making process for workforce planning, and how the ICRC nurtures talent and facilitates staff mobility within the organization, upskilling their workforce, and fostering professional growth opportunities. And again we will not shy away from discussing what candidates should prepare for when they want to apply; in this case for the ICRC. Enjoy this episode with an organisation, whose presence in the world, truly makes a hard-needed difference. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

68. Liza Rubinstein - Head of Impact at Carbon Equity
In this Impactpool podcast episode, we meet with Liza Rubinstein - Co-Founder and Head of Impact at Carbon Equity. Carbon Equity focuses on investments in climate technology solutions with a vision of a carbon net-zero economy. Through different investment portfolios, it enables investors to contribute to a sustainable future - a true company with impact. As we meet at their office in Amsterdam we speak about what drove the co-founders to start this company; we discuss the challenges and opportunities and talk about interesting technologies that can help us tackle the climate issue. There are so many fantastic initiatives out there… how can we all make an impact? Well, one thing is where you invest your money and what you do with your time. As we work over 80,000 hours in our life, thinking about how you can make an impact can make a meaningful difference. Inspiring things to talk about. Listen to the podcast and get inspired too! Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

67. Deepa Pindolia - Global Health Consultant at the WHO
In this Impactpool podcast, we meet with global health expert Dr. Deepa Pindolia. Deepa has over a decade of experience in strategically leading malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) programs across Africa. Amongst others, she has worked for the Clinton Health Access Initiative and is now employed as a Consultant at the World Health Organisation. In this episode we discuss, amongst others, her involvement and the importance of these programmes; her career path and how internships helped her shape her career choices; and her choice to be a full-time parent, taking a break from work, and how this ‘hardest decision of her life’ turned out the be on of the most important things she had ever done. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

66. Terre des Hommes - The issue of girls marriages in Asia
In this podcast Regional Director Asia Bushra Zulfiqar speaks about why girls get married early; what can be done, what is being done to address this issue and the challenges Terre des Hommes encounters to arrive at a child-marriage-free Asia. Globally, each year, 12 million girls are married before the age of 18. This is 23 girls every minute and one girl every three seconds. These are staggering numbers... Listen to the efforts made to improve the lives of young girls. Besides that, we also speak about Diversity & Inclusion in the workplace. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

65. Olufemi Elias - Legal Expert, Judge and former Registrar IRMCT
In this podcast, we meet with Olufemi Elias, former Registrar (United Nations Assistant Secretary-General) of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT). Today, he works as an independent Judge for ‘Administrative Tribunals’ and a visiting Professor in International Law at Queen Mary, University of London. Amongst others, we discuss his fascination with the international legal system; he shares his advice with those who want to work within the Legal frameworks of international organisations; and still being a musician himself, we discuss the importance of being who you are, and keeping doing the things that inspire you that are not part of your UN career. Music by Olufemi Elias

64. Paolo Bernasconi - Director of HR at OSCE
In this episode of our Impactpool podcast series, we meet with Paolo Bernasconi, the Director of Human Resources of the OSCE. We discuss quite a few topics that have to do with attitudes and behaviours in the workplace. In the discussion, Paolo speaks about the importance of vulnerability: we speak about HR being a safe space and the importance it plays in the individual growth of people. We also discuss how important it is to engage with those who are sceptical about embracing diversity, in order to make the workplace inclusive, and obviously, we do not want to miss the opportunity to ask Paolo about his view on a successful application and how to prepare for an interview, and the importance of carpooling when preparing for an interview :-) Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

63. Ndunge Evelyn Pavao - Associate HR Director, Talent Acquisition at CHAI
In this episode, we meet with Ndunge Evelyn Pavao who works as the Associate HR Director, Talent Acquisition at Clinton Health Access Initiative and is also the founder of Kweli Noir, a review website created for anyone who identifies as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color. We speak about her role in CHAI, and what they are looking for when recruiting; we dive into what it means to successfully manage a diverse and inclusive workforce, we talk about her review website and what it means to her and how it helps others make an informed decision; and we speak about what it is that drives her - her values and motivators, and how that inspires others! Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

62. David Bearfield - Director of HR at UNDP
In this episode, we speak with David about his belief on how HR can make a strong impact on the well-being of staff in the public sector, and how the intelligence, skills, commitment, passion, and courage of the people who work for them make the difference. We touch upon the grading system of the UN; and how to make a real difference when it comes to Diversity and Inclusion in your hiring of staff. And of-course we learn more about what drives him as person doing the work he does, with so much passion. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

61. Catty Bennet Sattler - Director of HR at UNHCR
In this episode of our Impactpool podcast series we meet with Catty Bennet Sattler, the Director of Human Resources of the UNHCR. We touch upon her passion for HR and her care for personal wellbeing, how to prepare when you are interested to work in the humanitarian field, and, last but not least, what Catty believes has been critical as a personal trait throughout her career. Music by Merlijn Angad Gaur / Musical Minutes

Impactpool Career Podcast with Claudia Rodriguez - UN OCHA
Impactpool Career Podcast with Claudia Rodriguez - UN OCHA by Impactpool for Career Growth

Career Podcast - IOM - Jo Rispoli
International Organizartion for Migration (IOM) - Jo Rispoli Chairman of the Global Staff Association Committee

Career Podcast - Jo Rispoli, IOM Chairman of Global Staff Association Committee
Learn about what are the policies and regulations rolled out at the IOM to protect, and support their staff.

Saman Saidi - Humanitarian Communications Manager at Save the Children.
Saman Saidi is the Humanitarian Communications Manager at Save the Children. Saman has worked with Communication for many years and has extensive humanitarian experience. In this episode, he explains what it was like to save people from drowning in the mediterranean sea, what it is like to constantly be on stand-by to go to an emergency, and why he started to work with Communication in the first place. - I was literally saving peoples lives, picking people up from the water, and seeing and meeting people that are more or less always traumatized when they get onboard. It was definitely a life-changing experience, says Saman Saidi.
What´s it like on a vessel in the Mediterranean sea? - Saman Saidi
Saman Saidi is the Humanitarian Communications Manager at Save the Children. Saman has worked with Communication for many years and has extensive humanitarian experience. In this episode, he explains what it was like to save people from drowning in the mediterranean sea, what it is like to constantly be on stand-by to go to an emergency, and why he started to work with Communication in the first place. - I was literally saving peoples lives, picking people up from the water, and seeing and meeting people that are more or less always traumatized when they get onboard. It was definitely a life-changing experience, says Saman Saidi.

Making an impact – how to make an impact in Afghanistan? - Sandra Kukla
Sandra Kukla is the Reporting Specialist at the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan in Kabul. Sandra moved from working in the private sector to the field of international development and a job in Afghanistan. In this episode, she explains why and how she made that shift in her career, what she finds as most rewarding about working in the global impact sector, and what it’s like to be a woman working in Afghanistan. - Knowing that you have an immediate impact on the lives of many Afghans, thousands of Afghans are not only rewarding but definitely motivating. So, I really enjoy my work here, says Sandra Kukla.

Making an impact – how to achieve zero hunger? - Gerard Rebello
Gerard Rebello is the Head of Supply Chain at WFP in Nigeria. Gerard has worked with logistics for many years and has an extensive humanitarian experience. In this episode, he explains how his work helps people in need to receive food, what it’s like to work with logistics in humanitarian situations, and how he got into that field in the first place. - You might literally have to even have donkeys carry bags because that’s the only way you can get from this point to the people we are serving so you know the reward and the thrill is in the learning to overcome the impossible that kind of keeps you going on a day to day basis, says Gerard Rebello.

Making an impact – what does a good CV look like? - Anna Cook
Anna Cook is the Deputy Group Leader – Talent Acquisition at CERN in Geneva. Anna has a longstanding experience in working with human resources and talent acquisition. In this episode, she explains what she looks for when reading CV’s and application letters, which skills she sees as the most needed, and why she went into the field of human resources. - I always had a very keen interest in people and curiosity for them, and for the recruitment function in particular. So, I think it is a very happy chance that I’ve ended up here and I am very grateful for the opportunity, says Anna Cook.

Learn directly from a Recruitment Manager at UN Headquarters
Learn directly from a Recruitment Manager’s voice at UN Secretariat how to succeed in your career at UN Secretariat? See to him explaining how he got there himself and what are they looking for in candidates. He told us his best advice for a successful career at the United Nations and much more. Our conversation answers some of the following questions: -What career decision accelerated his career the most? -How he started his UN career? -Did his expectations match the reality? -What are recruiters at UN headquarters looking for in candidates? He told us his best advice for a successful career at the United Nations

Making an impact – how to mitigate climate change? - Rana Ghoneim
Rana Ghoneim is the Chief, Energy Systems and Infrastructure Division at UNIDO in Vienna. Rana has a longstanding experience in working with UNIDO and in the energy sector. In this episode, she explains how her work helps mitigate climate change, what it’s like to work in the energy sector, and why she got into that field in the first place. - It’s the fact that I see that we are really making a change in peoples lives because often we go to start a project and there are issues that we have to tackle and be it providing electricity access to communities that don’t have that or be it helping an industry to really gain energy savings and so on, says Rana Ghoneim.

Impactpool Career Story - What is it like working at an UNHCR refugee camp as a Senior Officer?
We had a conversation with Roupen Alexandrian who holds the position of Senior Officer, Durable Solutions at UNHCR, based in one of the biggest refugee camps today. We asked him all the details that will help you have a clear idea of how successful careers happen at the United Nations.

Coaching on a global level at the World Bank Group - Stefano Olmeti
Listen to our podcast with Stefano Olmeti, a global coach who specializes in working internationally with mission-driven professionals and change-makers. Learn from his experience as the Coaching Manager of the World Bank Group, where he directed 1,000+ coaching engagements to assist staff worldwide in preparing for career advancements, enhancing impact, and transitioning successfully to new roles.

How to have a successful career working with Human Rights - Antonia de Meo
Impactpool has interviewed Antonia de Meo, Chief of Human Rights and Rule of Law Service in United Nations Support Mission in Libya, Representative of Office of UNHCR in Libya, Based in Tripoli

Impactpool Podcast Episode 23 Thomas Neufing - Chief, UNOG
In this episode, we talk to Thomas Neufing, currently heading the Centre for Learning and Multilingualism (CLM) at UNOG. Thomas has focused over the last 15 years on leadership and management development programmes. Listen about his educational and professional background in various development programmes and humanitarian and peacekeeping assignments.

Impactpool Career Podcast: Episode 22
In this episode, we had the opportunity to talk to Maudo Jallow, currently working at the Tony Blair Institute alongside the Ministry of Trade and Industry in Accra, Ghana. Maudo is a young professional that has worked for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) as well as the founder of New Nation, an NGO in The Gambia, his country of origin. Listen to his educational background and motivations that inspired him to choose this career path. Maudo shares exclusive tips for all young professionals interested in working with the United Nations and/or other organisations in the development sector.