‘Keep sending out your job application’

By DAISY OKOTI

Judith Kunyiha is a programming expert with 20 years’ experience. She has overseen several national and regional programmes at the United Nations and other non-governmental organisations. She is also an advocate for policy change and development. She holds an undergraduate degree in Biology from Concordia University and a Master’s in Public Health from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.

Is this the career you always dreamed of?

I have an altruistic personality, and I like helping people. I always wanted to find ways of helping those close to me stay healthy. When I was studying for my undergraduate degree, I joined a peer group where students talked to other students and the public about proper health and sanitation. I really enjoyed engaging with the community and breaking down medical jargon into more palatable words. When I got to Third Year, I attended a career guidance and counselling event and took many assessment tests after listening to the career coaches. It became clear that I was interested in a career in public health. I’d encourage students to take career fairs seriously because such events can help them get clarity on who they really are and what their interests are.

For how long did you stay jobless after completing your first degree?

For close to two years. After I completed my second degree, I looked for a job for about a month and then decided that I would take any job available as I waited for my dream job. I was in the US at the time so I got a job as a clerk and did it for three months before returning to Kenya to help my mother run her business. You may not get what you are looking for immediately, but that does not mean that you should give up. Start with what is available and keep looking.

How did you get your first job?

From a newspaper advertisement. I did not know anyone and that’s the lesson. You have to just keep sending out your application. There are many internship opportunities available for young people. They could also form a group and organise youth camps or events where they can show case their skills and gain experience. Not only are organisations looking for technically sound personnel, they also want employees who are competent in other areas. Your academic qualifications won’t necessarily get you a job, but they may open the door. Your skills, on the other hand, will help you establish and advance in your career.

What have you learnt so far about building a career?

It is a marathon, not a sprint. Use your skills or your role to learn as much as you can. Ensure you have a good relationship with your colleagues and be flexible. Draw clear boundaries and endeavour to grow spiritually, emotionally, professionally and physically. If you neglect one aspect of your life, you will pay for it later in life.

What are your thoughts on the rising numbers of HIV infections among youth in Kenya?

This is a demographic that keeps changing because youth is transitory phase. Therefore, we must think up new ways of equipping those who are just joining the youth bracket with the right knowledge. Additionally, we need to modify the message and factor in the Covid-19 issue.

The only thing that is consistent about young people is their age bracket. You have to address other issues such as gender and socio-economic backgrounds.

What has been the most exciting thing about your career?

Working with young people, and influencing policy. I have worked in West and Central Africa and then in Kenya, and I have been vocal about matters relating to female circumcision, adolescent health and youth policies, and HIV prevention. Getting the governments to implement sound laws was hard, but quite rewarding for me.

How important are mentors?

Each of us was created different, and we need different people to help us in our various weak points. You can choose one mentor or you can have several of them. However, you must trust your mentor if you are to reap maximum benefits from your interactions.