Having worked at the UN in Geneva since 2014, could you tell us more about the roles you have undertaken?
Pedro: In 2013 I started working with the Competition and Consumer Policies Branch and by 2016, I assumed a position in Knowledge Management and Logistics Support. Then in March 2019, I became an operator of a development project in Angola, which primary goal is diversifying the country's economy.
My role includes designing and creating workshops and seminars tailored for implementation in Angola. I also engage with stakeholders, including government organisations and diplomats, as well as handling all aspects of reporting and mission reports, ensuring accountability to the European Union, the project's sponsor.
Being fluent in Portuguese and having prior experience at the UN were instrumental in my hiring, given that the entire project is conducted in Portuguese. My role is crucial in translating documents, creating content, and facilitating communication.
What is the primary objective when engaging with communities in Angola?
Pedro: The 2016 oil price crisis had a substantial impact on Angola, a nation still recovering from a brutal civil war, which resulted in an economic recession. Given Angola’s heavy reliance on oil exports, our main goal is to achieve economic diversification for exports.
My team focuses on the National Green Exports Review, collaborating closely with the government to support small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in the green products sector. We delve into practical aspects such as basic business concepts, economics, logistics, and financing techniques. Additionally, we provide insights into diplomatic strategies and encourage collaboration with relevant associations.
What do you find most interesting and challenging about working at the UN?
Pedro: Working at the Geneva headquarters in Palais D'enacio offers remarkable experiences including events and networking opportunities. The most enjoyable aspect for me is the international vibe, as I have a team of around 14 people, representing approximately 10-11 nationalities. I also highly value the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives, particularly in projects like the one in Angola.
In terms of challenges, navigating internal bureaucracy requires patience. The UN lacks a performance-based promotion system, making vertical mobility challenging. Obtaining different positions involves a complex application process with various restrictions, which can be frustrating at times.
You volunteered in Ukraine amid the war in May 2022; can you tell us more about this experience?
Pedro: I joined a volunteer mission near the onset of the conflict. Our base was situated at the border of Ukraine and Poland in a small town, where a refugee centre was stablished in a massive supermarket warehouse to accommodate around 2,000 people; predominantly women, children, and the elderly. Although it was a 24-hour mission, it was intense as I worked on the food line, organising and distributing donated goods, and facilitating the transport of supplies for the military.
In addition to our work at the refugee centre, we undertook a mission into Ukraine with a former British military individual conducting humanitarian efforts. In a truck laden with supplies, we distributed tactical first aid kits, diesel oil for tanks and trucks, water, and essential items for women. Our destination was Lviv, the largest city in western Ukraine, where we made multiple drop-offs of supplies.
During this mission, we also ventured into the woods in the middle of the night to reach the border crossing point into Ukraine. We dropped off supplies at various locations and assisted a church receiving displaced people, particularly those fleeing Mariupol due to incessant bombing. The coordination between the church organisers, volunteers, and the military was truly remarkable.
Could you tell us more about your experience studying for the MA in Intelligence and International Security at King’s?
Pedro: It was a fantastic experience. The lectures featured esteemed academics and great practitioners like Sir David Omand, the former director of the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
The academic challenges were significant, as the writing standards were strict, making the course quite demanding. I found it difficult at the beginning, despite having graduated in the United States with a previous master's degree. But I soon realised that there was so much to learn, and I actively collaborated with my supervisors, other professors, and colleagues.
As students in the Department of War Studies, we were granted free membership to institutions such as RUSI, Chatham House, and other security intelligence platforms. But my academic experience also extended beyond the classroom with a lot of networking opportunities, for example we had a lecture by a former MI6 officer and met former CIA agents.
Do you have any advice for people who aspire to pursue a career similar to yours?
Pedro: For those interested in working at the UN, one common entry point is through unpaid internships. However, it can also help to have connections, therefore networking is crucial and important to actively engage with. Don't overlook any opportunities that come your way, even if it means sacrifices at the beginning.
Regarding work with international organisations and communities, it’s important to understand that it’s challenging to witness the impact of the work we do, particularly in long-term projects. The nature of the work makes it difficult to observe immediate results, as the impact becomes evident only after a considerable period, likely spanning 5-10 years. Patience is key in witnessing substantial and lasting changes within communities.