My name is Kin’Gouma-Zaou. I am currently working as a Senior Buyer at Eni Congo, where I manage the Procurement process for Oil & Gas Operations, in the fields of Logistics, Maintenance, LNG, Drilling and Completion. With several years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry, I am skilled in supplier management, negotiation, and contract administration. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Transport and Logistics Management from the African University of Technology and Management, which has provided me with a strong foundation in Supply Chain Management and logistics.

I chose the Procurement and Contracts Management Program at UniAthena for several reasons. The flexible learning duration, personal tutor support, and remote learning provide the support and convenience I need to learn while working full-time. The opportunity to earn a globally recognised Master degree from the prestigious Guglielmo Marconi University was also too good to pass up. 

I believe that the program I have chosen will significantly enhance my future career. I expect to greatly improve my knowledge of procurement processes, contract management, and supply chain dynamics. This expertise will make me a valuable asset to any organization seeking to optimize its Procurement and Contract Management functions. My goal is to pursue an international career, and UniAthena, with its globally recognized degrees, is the ideal pathway to achieve this ambition.

I am particularly excited about learning new Procurement processes and exploring practical cases from other sectors. Understanding how professionals in different industries and countries address procurement and contracts management challenges will enrich my perspective on the various approaches and solutions in this field.

With advanced qualifications, I will be better prepared for higher positions within my current organization. My primary professional goal is to be well-equipped for an international career, assuming high-level roles where I can impact organizations with my skills and knowledge, particularly in providing optimal Supply Chain solutions and cost optimization. I believe that completing this academic journey will provide me with the essential tools to achieve these objectives.

Balancing work, study, and personal life is indeed challenging, but having a solid strategy is crucial. It is certainly achievable with a well-structured schedule, effective priority management, and a dedicated family time plan that minimises or eliminates work- and study-related interruptions. Understanding when and where to allocate priorities is key to maintaining this balance.

The Republic of Congo is ranked as the sixth-largest oil producer in Africa. However, the income generated from this industry does not sufficiently benefit the Congolese population, as evidenced by an unemployment rate of 19.5%, according to EESIC-2. Unemployment has a detrimental effect on both economic and social development. This statistic prompted me to reflect on John F. Kennedy's famous words: "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." Inspired by this thought, I decided to become part of the change and contribute to creating added value in the country. 

With over eight years of professional experience in the industrial sector and more than three years in my entrepreneurial journey, I have learnt that success is heavily dependent on our attitude, as well as effective collaboration, partnerships, and leadership skills. Achieving professional success or building a sustainable business is closely linked to the positive impact we can have on people's daily lives.

Achieving success is often a combination of various personal qualities. Based on my personal experience, the key qualities essential for success include determination, perseverance, boldness, resilience, self-discipline, effective communication, vision, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

The COVID-19 pandemic is the most significant challenge I have witnessed in my lifetime. When the Congolese government implemented the lockdown, I feared losing everything I valued. Initially, the lockdown felt like imprisonment, but I soon decided to view this period as an opportunity for growth and learning. During this time, I realized that nothing should be taken for granted, that my freedom is no more important than that of others, and that being surrounded by loved ones is a precious gift. 

Additionally, this period allowed me to gather my friends and collaborate on writing a business plan for an agricultural company. Following the pandemic, we established a company named "Agro-Concept." The creation of this company has enabled me to become an entrepreneur who positively impacts people's lives.

The book I believe everyone should read is “Long Walk to Freedom” by Nelson Mandela. This autobiography is not only an inspiring account of Mandela's life but also a masterclass in successful leadership.

My dream career is to become a Chief Procurement Officer in a multinational organization. I am driven by the potential to positively impact the organization by helping it achieve its targets in supply chain management, logistics solutions, and cost optimisation. 

Additionally, I aspire to influence the careers of my colleagues by supporting them throughout their professional journeys. I believe that mentorship is a crucial method for fostering the growth of young human resources, and I am committed to implementing practical mentorship programs to achieve this aim.

My advice to professionals who are just beginning their careers is to fully dedicate themselves to learning the basics to build a strong understanding of processes. It is important to focus on compliance, develop negotiation skills, stay organized, seek mentorship, and continuously strive for improvement.