In this piece, Resident Representative Jacqueline Saline Olweya shares reflections on her career at the United Nations, emphasizing key lessons learned that would have been beneficial early on.

• A fulfilling UN career requires patience, self-awareness, strong relationships, and the ability to grow through uncertainty, rather than a pre-defined perfect path.
• Professional relationships and effective navigation of the UN's complex procedures are crucial for impact, alongside technical expertise.
• Confidence is built through action and taking responsibility, especially in challenging environments, and institutional knowledge is vital for translating values into concrete results.