Our monthly check-in with staff from around the world. Learn more about the people who work at CHAI.
Please tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to CHAI.
I started working at CHAI as a volunteer in 2004 after a lengthy career in the mining industry. What intrigued me about CHAI is its mission to support national HIV program strengthening in Lesotho. Since then, I have progressed to providing logistical office support – this was a completely new role for me. The support includes running day-to-day errands for the administration office, securing visas, and facilitating general immigration processes for international staff and visitors. It also includes overall management of the office fleet of vehicles to ensure the smooth implementation of our programs. More than a decade later, my role has further expanded to Safety and Security Focal Point.
1. What has been one of your proudest moments working for CHAI?
In 2006, I had the opportunity to meet Former President Bill Clinton when he visited Lesotho to witness firsthand the impact of the CHAI-supported Ministry of Health HIV/AIDS program. The CHAI office in Lesotho had been established two years prior. It was a privilege to meet him in person and to hear his vision for saving lives globally, which completely resonated with the work CHAI was already doing in the country.
2. In your experience, what skills are the most crucial to succeeding at CHAI?
The most crucial skills are effective communication and good listening skills as we partner with external stakeholders in most projects. It is, therefore, important to listen first, in order to provide the right solutions to their needs.
3. What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Leaving my home country for four and a half years to take a job as a supervisor in the construction of a hydropower station in Ethiopia I knew no one. I learned a lot from the experience including working with people from different cultural backgrounds as well as effective communication and collaboration to help projects succeed.
4. What is a motto you live by?
Life is a journey, the path to explore and speed are a personal choice.
5. What are the three words that describe you?
Kind. Dependable. Loyal.
