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Ghena Haikal
Makani Programme Associate at UNICEF
Professional Background
Ghena Haikal is a dedicated professional currently making significant strides at UNICEF Jordan as a Makani Programme Associate. Her role primarily focuses on the digitalization of the Makani programme, which aims to enhance access to services for children, especially in accommodating the needs of Syrian refugees throughout Jordan. By playing a pivotal part in the distribution of over 10,000 tablets with monthly internet packages, Ghena is actively working to bridge the digital divide for marginalized communities and ensure that the most vulnerable populations remain connected to essential services.
Before her impactful work with UNICEF, Ghena gained valuable experience during her internship with the organization's Social Protection unit, where she honed her understanding of social policies and practices that directly affect vulnerable groups. Moreover, she also lent her analytical skills to UNRWA as a Security Analyst intern, maintaining her commitment to international welfare and human rights.
Ghena's tenure at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) further enriched her expertise as a Global Education Officer, where she focused on creating equitable educational opportunities and promoting cultural awareness among diverse populations. She took on roles that enhanced her skills in communication, marketing, event planning, and community engagement, demonstrating her capacity to excel in fast-paced environments.
Education and Achievements
Ghena's academic journey has been marked by her pursuit of knowledge and her dedication to social issues. She graduated from New York University Abu Dhabi, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Social Research and Public Policy, where she achieved an impressive GPA of 3.567. Her studies provided her with the foundation to analyze complex social issues critically and develop policies for positive change.
Additionally, her educational experience was not confined to Abu Dhabi; she spent a semester abroad at New York University in Washington DC, immersing herself in political thought and public policy directly linked to her interests. She also expanded her horizons through a semester in Paris, where she engaged with global issues from a different cultural perspective.
Earlier in her academic life, Ghena completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma at The Ahliyyah School for Girls, achieving a score of 38 out of 45. This prestigious program equipped her with essential research and communication skills that are crucial for her current roles and responsibilities.
Ghena also received training in business fundamentals at NYU Stern School of Business, which complements her policy-focused education and enhances her ability to approach issues from a multifaceted perspective ranging from social sciences to strategic decision-making in organizations.
Achievements
Ghena Haikal has successfully contributed to several initiatives that prioritize the advancement of social equality and youth empowerment. Among her notable achievements are:
- Successfully overseeing the distribution of over 10,000 tablets to Syrian refugee children, facilitating their access to essential services remotely, which showcases her organizational and management skills in complex humanitarian efforts.
- Designing and developing communication strategies as a Global Education Officer at NYUAD, which contributed to a more culturally aware and inclusive educational environment.
- Demonstrating strong analytical skills as a Security Analyst intern at UNRWA, enhancing security protocols and policies that protect vulnerable populations within UN-operated facilities.
- Actively participating in various cultural and community engagement initiatives during her time at NYUAD, which enhanced her ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams.
- Completing multiple internships across sectors, including marketing and communications at McDonald's and monitoring and evaluation at the Jordan River Foundation, providing her with a broad set of skills applicable in both public policy and nonprofit work.
Conclusion
Through her educational accomplishments and extensive experience across various organizations, Ghena Haikal exemplifies the dedication and professionalism necessary for advancing social policy and community development. Her commitment to social justice, women's empowerment, and youth development drives her work each day, making her a vital asset to any initiative aimed at fostering positive change. As she continues her journey with UNICEF, she is sure to leave a profound impact on the lives of children and families in need within Jordan and beyond.