Somalia - My ten-year journey with IOM has taken me to many difference places, through which I have interacted with this world’s wonderful people and experienced their culture to the fullest.  

This journey has not been without its challenges, but I’ve always viewed them as opportunities to grow.  In my short career at IOM, no place has proven more challenging than working in Somalia and this is where most of my growth happened. I have learned so much from my colleagues and from the people of Somalia.

About half of my career at IOM was spent working at IOM Somalia.  In those five years, I have grown by leaps and bounds.  Somalia opened a new window to the world for me.  Personally and professionally, it gave me a chance to look at a new horizon.  

IOM Washington showed me the way and provided me with a firm understanding of the humanitarian world, and IOM Somalia gave me the tools to chart my own course.  It gave me a stellar team that went above and beyond the call of duty.  They did what was necessary for the betterment of the Labour Mobility and Human Development Division (LMHD).  LMHD is where it is today because of them.      

It is with a heavy heart that I leave IOM Somalia, but there comes a time when one must spread one’s wings and fly.  IOM Somalia will always stay near and dear to my heart. 

Farewell my friends – until I see you again!

Frantz S. Celestin