Interview with Aboubacar Guindo
Interview with Aboubacar Guindo

"Leaving the medical field to embrace the nonprofit world without any specific training and experience was the most courageous thing I have done."

Aboubacar Guindo
Programme Officer
United Nations World Food Programme
Democratic Republic of Congo

Master of International Business Administration Batch 2021

Please tell us about yourself, your family and your interests.

I am a father of three children. I have a natural inclination for learning and growing. I have a Doctorate in Medicine but left what was supposed to be the logical path to embrace the larger domain of Humanitarian Development. I have been working for more than fifteen years in the field of food security and nutrition, contributing to vital assistance to save and provide durable solutions to those who need it the most.

What drew you to the program you are studying at Athena? Is it living up to your expectations?

The desire to learn! The ease of access and to validate some of the competencies that I have acquired over time and learn some new tools – techniques and concepts that will help me in my current and future roles.
 
Regarding expectations, it is probably too early to comment. The program seems exciting and from what I have seen so far – it will certainly be of added value to what I need today and tomorrow.

What would you like to do after completing this course from Athena?

  • In terms of Learning - I hope the Master’s in International Relations will be available by then, and I do not have to start from scratch.
  • Professionally – I will seek a more senior managerial position in my organisation.
     

What do you think makes a great teacher?

Knowledge – pedagogic skills - availability.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to be the Secretary- General of the United Nations.

What is the most courageous thing you have ever done?

Leaving the medical field just after acquiring Doctorate to embrace the nonprofit world without any specific training and experience to apply to an officer's position which needs an experience of five to ten years. When my peers were getting money and societal recognition (They were Doctors !!), I was still struggling to get money while working at the Organisation that accepted me for an unpaid internship.

What is your best childhood memory?

Setting up our basketball playground from scratch.

What is your idea of a perfect vacation?

Holidaying at Zanzibar island with kids and no network.

Which fictional character (a character from a film, book, TV series, play) would you like to be friends with?

Caesar in Roman Empire – the Netflix docuseries.

Mention one important lesson you have learned in life that made you what you are today.

Nothing is impossible!

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