Paying It Forward
Nyandeng Gajang’s desire to work at the World Bank Group is rooted in her passion to help make life better for others, especially the most vulnerable. As a native of South Sudan, her family and countless others experienced the direct impacts of forced migration, economic instability, and numerous development challenges – most of which persist today.
She was raised in a family that valued public and community service, education, and the drive to rise above life’s challenges. “What truly inspired me from an early age is that I grew up witnessing my parents make a difference against all odds. I am grateful for the values, resilience, and passion they instilled in me.” This sense of commitment became a core part of Nyandeng’s identity, motivating her to pursue a career that contributes to broad global impact.
Driven by the belief that she could make a difference both at home and the global stage, Nyandeng relentlessly pursued goals and opportunities geared towards impact. This determination led her to apply to the Young Professionals (YP) Program at the World Bank Group, a premier international organization at the forefront of development. She is thrilled at the opportunity to help bring solutions by “…working face to face with governments of client countries, listening to their concerns, and seeing challenges firsthand. It is a unique opportunity to co-produce results with the people we serve.”
Expanding Horizons
Through the YP program, Nyandeng has a platform to hone her skills and expand her horizons. The program’s rigorous training opportunities are instrumental in shaping her career. She describes the program as an avenue for growth with tailored leadership development trainings that strengthen her leadership skills, while deepening technical expertise across diverse assignments, including serving as a lead author on a regional policy note on Climate-Smart Public Investment Management. Beyond training, the YP program is known for its exceptional mentoring opportunities and extraordinary network of talented people. Nyandeng says, “You’re surrounded by peers who share the same ambition. The trust from managers and the collaborative spirit help you grow in various aspects.”
Building a Better Future
Nyandeng’s work at the World Bank Group contributes to addressing poverty and helping countries build efficient, transparent, and accountable institutions that deliver valuable services. She finds fulfillment in knowing that her efforts contribute to improving lives. “Working at the World Bank Group aligns with my vision of tackling issues that many people in my community still face, like high poverty and health challenges.”
Moving forward, Nyandeng envisions herself contributing to initiatives that improve governance and institutions, economic development, and employment opportunities for young people, particularly in Africa. In 20 years, she hopes to look back and see that her work has helped many young people achieve their dreams. As she puts it, “If you have the drive and the vision, the World Bank Group is a place where you can truly make a difference.”