Scholastica Kimaryo

A renowned leader with decades of experience in both national and international organizations, shares her insights on excelling in leadership roles, particularly as a woman. Over her 41-year career, Scholastica has worked with major media organizations in Tanzania and served with the United Nations, including 23 years with UNICEF and as the UNDP Resident Country Representative. She notes that her time at UNICEF, especially working under Executive Director James P. Grant, was both challenging and rewarding, as it involved addressing the suffering of children in poor communities. However, it was the vision and dedication of Grant that inspired her to push forward in the mission to improve the lives of children worldwide.

Her role as a UNDP Resident Country Representative brought its own set of challenges, dealing with complex national and global governance issues and international development cooperation. Throughout her career, Scholastica faced the challenge of navigating various political interests, but the feedback she received from the countries she served has been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring her impact in these critical roles.

Scholastica acknowledges the unique position of being one of the few women in leadership roles, particularly within Tanzania’s media and the UN system. She candidly shares that, from a young age, she was aware of the prejudice women face in society. As a result, she committed herself to gaining the best possible education and varied work experiences to overcome these barriers. Her dedication to professionalism, integrity, and continuous learning became the foundation of her successful leadership journey.

Scholastica’s achievements reflect her commitment to making a difference and pushing past societal barriers. Her extensive experience in leadership roles, coupled with her ability to navigate complex political and development challenges, serves as an inspiration for young women aspiring to follow in her footsteps. She remains a testament to the power of resilience, education, and dedication in overcoming obstacles and excelling in positions of leadership.