IN THE SPOTLIGHT – Irene Zulu-Chabala: Serving the People that Serve Humanity

By Katja Kuivanen, Communications Officer, RSCE

In the bustling world of telecommunications at the RSCE, there’s a figure whose presence resonates with warmth, kindness, and diligence. Irene Zulu-Chabala finds fulfillment in her role as Telecommunications Assistant, aiding in telephone billing matters, supporting her team, and resolving urgent issues. Having dedicated her career to the United Nations, her journey epitomizes the values of our organization –enriching lives and inspiring others to embrace the power of compassion and commitment.

A Lifelong Journey with the UN

Irene’s professional odyssey has been intertwined with the United Nations for over three decades. Her journey to Uganda, though initially unexpected, has been a serendipitous adventure. Through a mobility exercise, she found herself in the Pearl of Africa, embracing it with open arms.

Based at the RSCE since 2018, Irene’s enthusiasm for her work finds its pinnacle in the Regional Field Technology Services (RFTS) section, a cornerstone service line at RSCE: “Without a doubt we are one of the most critical service providers of the organization. We provide the tools that everyone needs to perform their work i.e., internet, computers, radios, etc.”

Regional Field Technology Services: A Nexus of Support

The clients of RFTS encompass eleven field missions and the RSCE itself. Irene’s typical day revolves around the intricacies of telecommunications at the RFTS, where her role as Supervisor of the Regional Telephone Billing Unit (RTBU) entails corresponding with clients and colleagues, offering assistance, and ensuring clarity in telephone billing matters. Her job extends to providing support to her team, updating senior managers on billing affairs, and overseeing RTBU’s operations.

Ensuring Timely Service Delivery

When asked how she ensures that her clients get what they need, when they need it, Irene asserts: “The RTBU has Service Level Agreements with client missions, and Key Performance Indicators for the processes that we perform, requiring 100% achievement of timelines. We also work with other offices that require us to provide them information or data on time. So, my job is to make sure that every member of the team processes their recovery reports as per our timelines.”

Essential Skills for Success

When asked what essential skills are needed to excel in her role, Irene emphasizes: “You must have some computer literacy, leadership, and supervisory skills to lead a diverse team. Planning, organizing, client orientation, and good communication skills are also essential. You should at least have some technological awareness or be inclined to learn.”

A Message of Support and Empathy to the Field

Irene extends a message of unwavering support to field missions. Acknowledging the trials and tribulations they face, she reassures them of RTBU’s commitment: “We are here to serve. We understand the hardships or struggles that they may be going through. Mission life is not always rosy, so we know that we have to provide efficient and effective services.”

Life Beyond Work: A Pursuit of Balance

Embracing a holistic approach to life, Irene indulges in various activities that nourish her soul and enrich her spirit: “Work-life balance is very important to me, and I try not to compromise on it. In my free time I like to socialize with friends. I love music and dancing, going to the cinema, reading books, watching various shows on TV, playing golf whenever I can, and sometimes cooking. The one thing I love the most is to spend time with my family. I also have three precious dogs - two in Uganda and one back home. I love them.”

The Fulfillment of Service

For Irene, the most fulfilling aspect of her work lies in serving those who serve the world. Being part of an organization dedicated to global betterment imbues her with a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. “I think that when you get to know and understand what we do as UN staff, and commit yourself to the cause, the job becomes very fulfilling.”

Words of Wisdom: Humility and Self-Love

Irene urges her colleagues to remain humble, uphold integrity, and cherish their well-being. To women especially, she advocates for solidarity, mentorship, and self-care as pillars of empowerment.

Be humble, always. Work with integrity, and don’t compromise your self-worth for temporary gains. Treat people with kindness and always respect others, and yourself.