United Nations Mission In South Sudan

<aside> 🇺🇳 Public Information Officer, UNMISS(MAY 2019~MAR 2020., 11 months)

</aside>

<aside> 🏃🏻

Recognized the importance of Youth-led action in supporting LDCs through an intergovernmental organization by contributing to the operation of a vocational training center in Bor, South Sudan.
Gained familiarity with the UN system, including M&E activities, partnership engagement, and team priorities of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, comprising over 12,000 peacekeepers.
Served as an interpreter for UN and Korean military officers, a trainer for UN Korean language classes, and a content producer for the mission’s official website.
Received seven commendations from South Sudanese government entities, including the Jonglei State Government, for completing 31 field mission videos, 62 video edits, 100 design projects, and 35 other document assignments. </aside>

More than Just Familiarity with the UN System

What I gained from serving as a Public Information Officer in South Sudan went beyond mere familiarity with the UN system. I came to understand the vital role of Youth Empowerment and ICT infrastructure in sustainable development. In my role as an English-Korean interpreter between Korean peacekeepers and senior South Sudanese government officials, I observed that what local authorities truly needed was not short-term assistance but long-term solutions—particularly in youth education and employment. In response, the Republic of Korea established a vocational training center in Bor, under the authorization of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. I also witnessed firsthand how the absence of reliable information infrastructure could have life-threatening consequences, especially during disasters. This experience shaped my aspiration to help bridge the global digital divide and pursue a career at the United Nations, where I can contribute to inclusive access to knowledge, education, and opportunity.

Information is a resource

Working in a field-based organization allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of both the United Nations system and the role of development communication. I witnessed firsthand how crucial ICTs are in efforts aimed at eradicating poverty and reducing inequality. The lack of reliable information infrastructure can lead to life-threatening consequences, particularly during a crisis. Effective dissemination of information requires strategic partnerships that are tightly interwoven across intergovernmental institutions, regional stakeholders, and the media.