10 Questions: Rohini De Silva

What was your last assignment with UNICEF?

Deputy Director Human Resources, with special assignment as Gender Advisor to the ED

How old do you feel?

Mentally I feel quite alert and young, physically a few aches and pains!

Where do you live?

Stamford, CT, USA

If you could travel without any restrictions, where would you go?

I would love to explore Greece, with its rich history and beautiful coast

What book are you currently reading?

“The Promise” by Damon Galgut, South African Writer who won the 2021 Booker Prize

Your best experience with UNICEF?

Travel to the field offices and visiting UNICEF programs. It was humbling to witness the contribution of UNICEF in improving the daily life of children and women and to receive the genuine appreciation of the local communities.

Your biggest challenge when working for UNICEF?

Treading the Gender Dynamics. I was fortunate to have male mentors who supported my career growth and Executive Directors who advocated for Gender Equity

Your biggest fear, in relation to the future of children?

The pandemic, civil unrest and wars are affecting the gains in child health and poverty

Your greatest hope, in relation to children?

They are technology savy and see first- hand the evils of discrimination. I believe they will work for a more equitable world.

Give one piece of advice to the UNICEF Executive Director.

Leverage the strength of Multiculturalism that UNICEF brings.

Rohini De Silva can be reached via: rdesilva56@yahoo.com

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