??Tea & Three Questions...

Working alongside Marina Prohaska has truly been a delight. She joined our team in Stockholm to help shape our digital communications strategy, and her impact has been nothing short of brilliant. Marina has led with enthusiasm, sharing her expertise and sparking creativity among the team. As we sat down for a final tea break before parting ways, I found myself eager for one last shot of inspiration and keen to learn more from her.

Three questions came to mind:

What's your career high?

My time at UNICEF Innovation as a Digital Communication Manager. It's been nothing short of a dream come true. I've always had this deep love for communication, innovation, and gaming, so joining this office, leading the social media strategy, and crafting a campaign for the Game Changers Coalition felt like hitting the jackpot.?

Diving headfirst into a world where gaming meets innovation, all while making a real difference in children's lives within UNICEF, was incredibly exciting. With just three months to bring about significant change —it truly kept me on my toes!?

What’s one life lesson you’ll never to forget?

The importance of looking after your mental health. It's so easy to get swept up in work that you forget about yourself—I've been there, trust me.

But here's the thing: your health doesn't just hit pause when you leave the office. That job, team, or company will move on without skipping a beat once you leave.? But your health? It stays with you, whether you're on the clock or not.

That's why I've made setting boundaries a must-do. Taking breaks isn't just a luxury—it's essential. And knowing when to reach out for support, whether it's from friends, family, or professionals, can really make a difference. I've had my fair share of panic attacks, and let me tell you, they're a serious wake-up call. That's why I've made it a priority to set those boundaries, take breaks, and ask for help when I need it. It's been a tough lesson, but it's completely transformed not only how I approach my work but also how I support those around me in theirs.?

Who's the most inspiring colleague you've worked with and why?

When I think about those who've had a real impact on my work life, Pravaran Mahat immediately comes to mind. In the chaos of the early days of COVID-19, when I switched jobs and found myself working remotely for UNICEF South Asia from Serbia, Pravaran was a constant pillar of support. He didn't just ensure tasks were completed; he genuinely cared about my and the entire team’s well-being. His sense of humour provided a much-needed break during tough times. Pravaran taught me that leadership isn't just about hitting targets—it's about genuinely caring for the people you work with.??

And then there's my current supervisor, Kav S. . She's a true master at keeping operations running smoothly. Her attention to detail is unmatched, and she's taught me to be sharper in my strategic thinking. Kav has a knack for asking the tough questions that others may shy away from, and her strong ethical values are a guiding light in our workplace. With her infectious singing in the office and her genuine self, Kav has proven that work can be both fun and productive, and I'm truly grateful for all the tips and tricks she's shared with me.??

As far as experiences go, my time with Marina was short lived but insightful. She reminds me that passion fuels perpetual growth; kindness, assertiveness, and confidence aren’t mutually exclusive – they can co-exist beautifully; and if I look closely enough, and I'll find something good and praiseworthy in almost anyone. 3 things I won’t forget in a hurry.??

Thank you, Marina. It’s been an absolute joy working with you!??