UNDP Graduate Story - Omar Marzouk | United Nations Development Programme

UNDP Graduate Story - Omar Marzouk

Graduate Programme: Building a future smart workforce for UNDP

November 11, 2025

Group of people in blue shirts at an outdoor climate resilience booth with banners. — Omar Marzouk with UNDP colleagues showcasing climate work and sustainable natural resource management samples.

@UNDP Jamaica

Tell us about your educational journey and the place(s) that shaped you.

I studied Mechanical Engineering at the American University in Cairo, where I specialized in Power Engineering and minored in Economics. My academic journey continued in the Netherlands, where I earned a Master’s in Environmental and Energy Management. Living and studying in Europe and North Africa gave me a strong appreciation for how technology, policy, and human behaviour intersect in the energy transition. These experiences shaped my perspective on sustainable development—not just as a technical challenge, but as a social and institutional one that requires collaboration across sectors and countries.

What inspired you to apply to the graduate programme and work with UNDP?

I was drawn to the Graduate Programme because of its mission to nurture young professionals who want to make real impact. Having previously worked with both international organizations and the private sector, I saw UNDP as the perfect place to combine my technical background with my passion for sustainable energy transitions in developing countries. I wanted to contribute to initiatives that not only deploy clean technologies but also strengthen institutions, improve resilience, and create opportunities for communities.

What are the main activities/tasks you are working on? What is a typical day in your current assignment?

I work as a Regional Programme Analyst for Energy, Environment, and Resilience at the UNDP Jamaica Multi-Country Office. My work focuses on supporting GEF-funded projects that advance sustainable energy transitions, environmental management, and climate resilience across the Caribbean. A typical day involves coordinating with government counterparts, reviewing technical reports and budgets, drafting policy briefs, and facilitating stakeholder meetings. I also collaborate closely with regional colleagues from Panama Regional Hub and Regional Bureau for Latin America and Caribbean (RBLAC) to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and align country initiatives with broader regional climate and energy goals.

Photograph of a man in a white polo holding an orange booklet with a sun icon, in front of a car. — Omar Marzouk, Programme Analyst UNDP Jamaica

Photo: UNDP Jamaica

Which SDG(s) does your work support, and how do you see its impact?

My work contributes primarily to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). The GEF e-mobility project which I currently support, for example, promotes low-carbon transport solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and strengthen energy security. Beyond environmental outcomes, the project builds institutional capacity and supports national policies for a just and inclusive energy transition—creating long-term social and economic benefits.

What are some of the personal and professional challenges you are experiencing/have experienced? What have these challenges taught you?

Being based in a new country far from home has tested my adaptability and resilience, especially as I experienced living through a hurricane for the first time. It was both humbling and eye-opening. While I was fortunate to remain safe, many communities around me were severely affected — homes damaged, power lines down, and access to basic services interrupted for days. Professionally, this experience strengthened my understanding of what resilience truly means: not only recovering from crises but rebuilding smarter and ensuring that communities can withstand future shocks. The days that followed the hurricane were filled with collaboration and quick action, reminding me how much solidarity and adaptability matter in our line of work. It also reaffirmed my commitment to UNDP’s mission of supporting countries like Jamaica in advancing sustainable energy and climate resilience where it matters most — on the ground and for the people most affected, who remain in my thoughts and prayers.”

How has been your learning journey so far? How has your past experiences shaped your approach to this role?

My learning curve has been steep and enriching. Having previously worked with International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the private sector in Europe, I’ve learned to approach challenges from both policy and implementation angles. This combination helps me translate technical knowledge into actionable development solutions and adapt global best practices to local contexts in Small Island Developing States.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of this journey?

The most rewarding part is seeing ideas turn into tangible progress—when a project document becomes an active initiative that mobilizes people and resources. It’s also deeply fulfilling to work alongside passionate colleagues and government counterparts who are genuinely committed to advancing sustainability in their countries.

UNDP Jamaica MCO and UNDP Norway CO colleagues during the visit of UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince of Norway

Photo: UNDP Jamaica

How has your identity or lived experience influenced your work with UNDP?

Coming from Egypt, I bring an understanding of the shared development aspirations and challenges that many emerging economies face in pursuing sustainable growth. Having lived and worked across different regions, I’ve learned to value inclusivity, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity in development work. These experiences have shaped the way I engage with partners and support national efforts to build resilient and sustainable systems.

Could you tell us about a funny anecdote or a curious tradition that you have experienced in your duty station?

In Jamaica, there’s a wonderful tradition of greeting colleagues with warmth and humor—even in the most formal meetings. It’s a reminder that work and joy can coexist beautifully, and that positive energy often drives collaboration.

What is your piece of advice to the candidates who will apply to the next cohorts? What do you wish you had known before starting the programme?

Trust your capabilities and approach the experience with curiosity, patience and openness. Be kind to yourself and others and keep in mind that the Graduate Programme is not just about performing your duties – it is more about learning how development really works, from policy to partnerships to implementation. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; take initiative, ask questions, and engage with colleagues across teams and countries with courtesy and respect.

The Graduate Programme has been a journey of ups and downs—moments of challenge, growth, and discovery. Being on the other side of the world from home has tested my resilience, but it has also given me the chance to work with incredible colleagues and contribute to meaningful change. It’s an experience that turns passion into purpose and reminds me why I chose this path in the first place.

Omar Marzouk