Investing in a workplace where women can thrive
Our workplace reflects the world we want to live in: gender-equal, with opportunity and empowerment for all
Investing in women and girls today creates a future where everyone in society can thrive. At UNICEF, to champion gender equality means investing in young and adolescent girls in our programmatic work. And to help achieve this mission, our workplace must be no different: we continuously foster a culture that upholds gender equality - where women feel empowered and can grow professionally as well as personally.
Some of UNICEF's efforts to address gender-specific inequalities focused on achieving gender balance at all seniority levels. We developed policies and practices to ensure equitable career opportunities for everyone. In a historic milestone in August 2022, UNICEF achieved gender parity in leadership positions (P5 level). These results push us to do more and do better.
Today, half of our staff members are women. They are in the field, or in UNICEF's country offices and headquarters locations around the world. They work tirelessly to save lives and bring hope to people in need. On March 8, the International Women's Day, we invite a few of our committed female colleagues to share what motivates them and makes them proud to be part of UNICEF, serving the world's children.
Women of UNICEF are:
Proud when they achieve results
"My best part of the day is when I am in the field, close to the children; I am very happy when I see a child drinking safe, clean water"
Motivated to continue
"One girl gave me a drawing of boys and girls studying together in the same class and she called it "the future." I was so moved. Stories like this are often part of our work and that's what motivates me to do more and more."
Successful working collaboratively
"It's a cross-sectoral work, where you have the opportunity to work with your colleagues from other sectors and your counterparts to achieve better outcomes for children and adolescents in a holistic way."
Agents of change
"We are all passionate changemakers. UNICEF is that safe framework that tells you: yes, we can change the world - for every child."
Team players and collaborators
"I start the day with the friendly welcome of my colleagues, and the atmosphere of proactivity, willingness to collaborate in teamwork, and integration between all sections.”
Motivated and living their values
"I believe in the power of change and doing my best, because every action we do can make a difference in a child's life. Being with UNICEF, is a way of life not a job. We live by our core values and do our best to advocate for a better life for every child."
Compassionate and caring
"I enjoy the moments I spend with young people. I try to understand their aspirations and to contribute to achieving them because I like to remember that I was like them not so long ago. And when I walk into a classroom and see the smile of a little girl or boy, my day is fulfilled."
