A Lifetime with UNICEF: Nazneen Kabita’s journey as UNICEF’s longest-standing staff in Bangladesh

On September 1, 2024, Nazneen Kabita’s morning routine felt very different. For 44 years and 9 months, she had made her way to UNICEF office in Bangladesh, always arriving before 8 a.m., ready to start her day with energy and purpose. But today, Kabita began her day at home, savoring her tea a little longer, as she reflected on a career that spanned over four decades.

From nervous beginnings to leading with confidence

Kabita began her journey with UNICEF on November 27, 1979, right after completing her higher secondary school. Moving from her home in Keraniganj to Dhaka for the job was a big step for the young Kabita, who found herself among only five women in the office. "During the first few days, I often felt nervous and would doubt my capabilities," she recalls. "There were times I would go back to Keraniganj and tell my father that I wanted to come back home. But he always encouraged me to keep going. I was also fortunate to have a supportive manager."

With time, Kabita became confident and tenacious. Kabita joined to cover a staff member on leave and was then hired in finance within two weeks, where she became an invaluable team member over the years. She witnessed countless changes within UNICEF in Bangladesh. “I have seen our office grow from a small, close-knit team to a dynamic, diverse organization,” says Kabita.

Kabita vividly remembers the response to the devastating floods of 1987, one of the worst natural disasters to hit Bangladesh. “I worked tirelessly to ensure funds were quickly available for relief efforts," she recalls. "We were on our feet for hours, making sure essential supplies reached those who needed them most. Being able to help people in need was incredibly fulfilling and a powerful reminder of the difference we make in people’s lives,” Kabita reflects.

Achievements across decades

During her career, Kabita worked under 11 country representatives and 7 executive directors, meeting 5 of them during their visits to Bangladesh. She witnessed the organization evolve to meet the changing needs of children and families in the country. Kabita saw UNICEF respond to major challenges, such as the catastrophic cyclone in 1991, the creation of "Meena" – the beloved cartoon character promoting children’s rights, and the extensive efforts to tackle the arsenic crisis in Bangladesh's groundwater amongst other. However, the milestone that stands out for her is witnessing UNICEF achieve gender balance in its workforce in Bangladesh in 1997.

"We were among the first UN agencies to reach a 50/50 ratio. When I began, there were very few women, today, I am proud to see many women in leadership positions across the organization. Coming from a time when there were only a handful of women, this felt like a big win, not just for UNICEF but for women in Bangladesh," Kabita says with pride.

Reflecting on her memories at the organization, Kabita also cherishes a deeply special experience that highlights the organization's commitment to its staff. When she returned to work after giving birth to her first child, Anik, in 1986, there was no day care center at the UNICEF office. Kabita was worried about balancing her responsibilities at work with her new role as a mother.

"On my second day back from maternity leave, during a management meeting, my manager proposed setting up a day care center so I could bring my child to work,” Kabita recounts.

“I still remember his words. He had said, ‘Kabita is the first female employee at UNICEF in Bangladesh to give birth, and it's essential that we have a nursery at the workplace. UNICEF has projects advocating for providing safe spaces at work for mothers so they can nurse their children. Hence, it is our responsibility to do the same for our own staff.’ My manager even spoke to my husband to reassure him about the arrangement. I still have the minutes of that meeting with me.”

The creation of the day care center was a testament to the organization’s values and support for its employees. Kabita fondly remembers, “When I brought my son to the office the next day, there was not a single employee who did not come to welcome him. It meant so much to me,” concludes Kabita.

A career of lasting impact

On August 31, 2024, Kabita officially retired, concluding her journey as UNICEF’s longest-standing staff in Bangladesh. "I did not feel overwhelmed with emotion on my last day. It just felt like another day at the office and that I would be coming back the next day,” she says with a warm smile. “But now it’s sinking in that I will not see the people I have grown so close to every day."

Having retired as a Finance Associate, Kabita had an illustrious career. “From stepping in during the absence of a team member to receiving outstanding remarks in her performance evaluations, Kabita is an accomplished professional. She has set an example of dedication and commitment to UNICEF’s mission. Kabita was also our institutional memory and she has been an outstanding support within the finance team with high knowledge and skills,” said Marie-Louise Kabamba, Kabita’s manager.

Though her daily routine has changed, Kabita sees retirement as a new beginning. She remains filled with gratitude and pride for her time with UNICEF. “Seeing the organization evolve and reach new milestones has been incredibly rewarding. I am proud of being a part of UNICEF and I am proud of what we achieved together in Bangladesh. However, without the support of my family, I would not have come this far. Their encouragement and support were crucial to my journey.”

Her message to young professionals is clear: “Stay true to your work, be honest, and always have the desire to learn. The work we do at UNICEF is more than just a job; it’s about making a difference."

While she may no longer walk through UNICEF’s doors each morning, Kabita’s legacy and the impact of her work will continue to inspire many for years to come.