My name is Eliot Chataika, and I am currently a Project HSE Manager working on an expatriate project in Liberia. I have a passion for Safety Management and Construction, and I’ve been fortunate to work on projects that impact a significant workforce. I chose this program at UniAthena because I’m always looking for opportunities to broaden my expertise, especially in Construction Management, as I’ve recently started venturing into this field. I believe the program will refine my skills, enhance my leadership capabilities, and open up new doors for career growth in the dynamic world of project management.

I’m excited to explore practical strategies for managing large-scale projects more efficiently. I’m particularly looking forward to diving deeper into methodologies that can help integrate safety practices with productivity in construction environments.

After completing my studies, I aim to transition into senior leadership roles in Construction and Project Management, with a long-term vision of contributing to sustainable and safe construction practices in Africa and beyond. I’m also keen on mentoring upcoming professionals in the industry to help them grow.

Balancing studies, work, and personal life is a skill I’ve honed over the years. I dedicate specific hours each day to studying, and I plan my tasks meticulously to avoid overlapping deadlines. During my two-week home breaks, I also use the time to catch up on course work while spending quality time with my family.

One of the most challenging goals I set was to complete a complex incident investigation while managing a large team under tight deadlines. It required detailed analysis, constant communication with contractors, and ensuring corrective actions were implemented promptly. Through this, I learned the importance of teamwork and the value of breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps.

I believe adaptability, persistence, and effective communication are essential for success. Every day in my role presents unique challenges, and these qualities have helped me navigate through them.

When our team faced transport challenges for daily inspections, I stepped in to handle the situation proactively. Despite not being directly responsible for logistics, I coordinated with colleagues and found temporary solutions. This experience reinforced my belief in taking ownership and being resourceful when needed.

I would recommend ‘Leaders Eat Last’ by Simon Sinek. It’s an inspiring book about the essence of leadership and how building trust and fostering a sense of safety among teams leads to extraordinary outcomes. I’ve applied many lessons from it in my own work.

My dream job would be leading large-scale infrastructure projects that focus on sustainability and community impact. What motivates me is knowing that my work can leave a lasting positive legacy, improving the quality of life for many.

Start with a learner’s mindset and never shy away from challenges. Networking and being open to feedback can fast-track your growth. Also, stay adaptable because industries evolve quickly, and being flexible will help you stay relevant.