Veronique Su, the outgoing Regional Director for the Central, East and Southern Africa region recently shared her two cents about the past 13 years at Swisscontact with the Regional Communications Officer. From years of working in the private banking sector in Switzerland to her career shift into the development world.

What motivates you to get out of bed in the morning?

The idea of contributing to a better society. I am driven by the possibility of helping people bridge the gaps they encounter that often hinder them from reaching their potential. I am fortunate to be in a position to help identify these opportunities, facilitate partnerships and provide long-lasting solutions to pertinent issues that affect many people in society today.

You have worked at Swisscontact for 13 years. What are you most proud of?

The team who make up the Swisscontact CESAF region. I can confidently say I have recruited a competent team across the board. They are committed to their jobs, boldly take up the tasks assigned to them and ensure they do their best to achieve the organisations desired goals.

It is always an 80:20 gamble. 80% of the time we have hired great workers and 20% of the time we have hired people who have left the organisation sooner than anticipated, been involved in unaccepted organisational practices and so on.

I am also proud of how big and fast the regional portfolio has grown. When I started in this role in 2011, I oversaw 3 countries – Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Today, our portfolio has grown to 8 countries - Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Mozambique and South Africa. We now implement 14 projects which strive to create economic opportunities for people to improve their lives.

Improved Livelihoods through Vocational Training

Ciudad Bolívar, Bogotá

Ciudad Bolívar, Bogotá