The UN 2.0 Week side event on UN Careers in Data & Digital

On the 11th of June, the UN 2.0 week side event on UN Careers in Data & Digital, part of our OneUN Talent Outreach Group across FAO, UNEP, WFP, UNV and UN Secretariat, highlighted the rich variety of roles and careers for the next generation of thinkers, doers and changemakers embracing data, digital transformation and innovation to drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

The UN 2.0 Week Side Event spotlighted inspiring career journeys and innovations shaping the UN’s data and digital future from Jennifer Stanzl, OHR, Polina Koroleva, UNEP, Avishan Bodjnoud, DPPA, Henry van Burgsteden, FAO, Diana Klein, WFP. Aligned with the UN 2.0 Week theme “Delivering for Impact”, the session explored pathways from UN volunteering to impactful tech-focused roles, and highlighted how digital innovation contributes to the Quintet of Change.

As Jennifer Stanzl stressed that ''for the 21st century challenges, we must transform the way we work, the way we lead and the way we serve. And this UN 2.0 vision is our collective response to this new reality''. Among all speakers one key takeaway struck the session: "digital gives a great opportunity to be this bridge between different types of stakeholders, between scientists, data, scientists, policymakers, and having the opportunity to talk to all of these people... and ensure we are all speaking the same language'' in line with "the global standards for ethics, privacy, and sustainability".
It is also important, as Henry van Burgsteden added, "to make available these digital public goods and digital public infrastructure as sort of raw material... that are aware of the local context and that are working with the local communities providing meaningful digital solutions that try to solve the real issues that people...are facing".

Avishan Bodjnoud shared also precious career advice for the next generation of thinkers, doers and changemakers: "If you remain resilient. If you embrace failure as a teacher and commit to continuous learning in this rapidly evolving technological landscape, you will not only grow, you will also lead''.

Finally, through a live Q&A and interactive elements, the session encouraged the participation of hundreds of participants and through its live stream and recording, its message can now be further amplified to thousands of potential candidates.

Learn more by clicking here and watching the recording.