Meet Marichka Punko: Project Coordinator and Gender Advisor at the NGU ‘Foundation for Support of Reforms in Ukraine’!
‘Supervise, check, help, support, train’ - these five words best describe her daily work.
During her student years, Marichka organised scientific conferences, charity events, had experience in setting up a non-governmental organisation, and interned at some of the leading public sector institutions, where she proved her ability to take on complex tasks and lead them to a successful outcome.
‘I am currently working on two projects that aim to promote best practices and improve existing processes in the defence sector,’ says Marichka.
The coordinator also works on gender equality and social inclusion in one of the defence sector projects. By the way, this area has become her greatest pride: "While working at the Foundation, I completed a specialised training course and wrote a lecture that I am currently delivering as part of a course for authorised persons in charge of procurement in military units. At the same time, I am making efforts to expand the gender component of the project,’ Marichka says.
Her lectures help stakeholders better understand the importance of social inclusion in the defence sector.
Marichka is particularly proud of the friendly atmosphere and professional support she feels in her team. According to her, trust and mutual assistance are the key principles of work at the Foundation. But, as she admits, the main thing in communication is respect and professionalism, emphasising the importance of remaining calm even in difficult situations.
In between her busy work, Marichka enjoys dancing, which helps her to reboot after a busy day. And when she wants to delve into something intellectual, she chooses books on behaviourism and history. Marichka is convinced that knowledge of behavioural patterns helps to better understand people, build effective communication and analyse different scenarios.
In conclusion:
- How do you know if you are ‘in your place’?
- You solve problems that you enjoy solving.
Thank you, Marichka, for your inspirational story, dedicated work and contribution to the development of the bright future of our country! We are glad to have such cool, young professionals in our team!