Lweendo Syabwengo
Lusaka,09
Summary
Experienced in Project Management and Youth Development in the United Nations system and adept at completing projects with confidence and skill. History of performing well under pressure and accomplishing successive assignments with high accuracy. Experienced in fast-paced environments and adapts well to changing situations. Hardworking Project Lead with an exceptional commitment to exceeding client expectations. Engaging and friendly in managing work quality, key milestones, and deliverables.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
PROGRAMME ASSOCIATE - YOUTH NATIONAL SPECIALIST
United Nations Development Programme
07.2021 - Current
- Coordinating Youth and stakeholder appointments and meetings which includes compilation of briefings and presentations, speeches, background information, and documentation
- Providing information for audit needs for various unit support within the UNDP System
- Facilitating procurement processes which include preparation of Request for Proposals (RFPs), Terms of Reference Requests for Quotations, Bids for Proposal and preliminary evaluations
- Supporting the preparation of Purchase Orders (POs) and non–PO vouchers
- Scheduling travel and hotel reservations and obtaining necessary travel authorizations
- Organising conferences, workshops, and retreats
- Facilitating asset management assets disposal/transfer, follow-up on requests for maintenance of assets, and disposal/transfer actions and entering records in the asset control database
- Collaborate closely with Finance Officers to ensure the project inventory is accurate and up-to-date.
- Facilitate annual physical verification by checking the location of assets, and the accuracy of records
- Main custodian of stationary, maintain stockist, and log of distribution
- Maintain archive system and safekeeping of confidential documents
- Record minutes and act as an interpreter/translator
- Providing effective support in financial management focusing on quality assurance
- Working near the Finance Officer to undertake timely corrective actions on unposted vouchers
- Event planning and management
- Purchasing goods on behalf of the organization with aid from the procurement team.
- Strengthened team dynamics through regular feedback sessions, resulting in increased productivity and improved performance.
- Streamlined data collection processes by implementing efficient tracking systems, leading to more accurate reporting and analysis capabilities.
- Managed critical deadlines by breaking down complex tasks into smaller action items that could be easily delegated or prioritized as necessary.
- Facilitated stakeholder meetings to solicit input on project goals, priorities, and expectations to ensure alignment across all parties involved.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments to identify potential threats to project success and developed contingency plans accordingly.
- Maintained detailed documentation of all project phases, ensuring accurate record-keeping and easy retrieval of information when needed.
- Assisted in the creation of client presentations, showcasing progress updates and demonstrating value-added results throughout the engagement.
- Supervised junior team members by offering mentorship, constructive feedback, and opportunities for growth within their roles as Project Associates.
- Participated in the negotiation of project contracts, working closely with legal teams to secure favorable terms for the organization and its clients.
- Assisted with proposal development by conducting research, developing timelines, and crafting compelling narratives that showcased the team''s capabilities and expertise.
- Developed comprehensive project plans that outlined key objectives, milestones, and resource allocation for timely completion.
- Fostered an environment of open communication and transparency, encouraging team members to voice their ideas and concerns in order to promote effective problemsolving.
- Contributed to the development of best practices within the organization, sharing knowledge with colleagues and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Ensured adherence to established quality standards by conducting regular reviews of deliverables before submission to clients or stakeholders.
- Cultivated strong working relationships with clients by providing responsive support and expert guidance throughout each stage of the project life cycle.
- Supported project managers in the execution of large-scale projects, effectively coordinating tasks among cross-functional teams.
- Assisted in budget management to ensure cost-effective allocation of resources while maintaining high-quality outputs.
- Enhanced project efficiency by streamlining communication channels and implementing effective collaboration tools.
- Planned, executed, and controlled assigned projects, ensuring work performed complied with contractual requirements.
- Developed and trained junior team members by leveraging industry experience to achieve optimal project strategy.
- Maintained tactical control of project budgets and timelines to keep teams on task and achieve schedule targets.
- Adjusted project plans to account for dynamic targets, staffing changes, and operational specifications.
- Planned, executed, and promoted a total of 5 projects in 2023.
- Reduced risk and coordinated project specifications to meet safety and federal compliance.
- Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals.
- Developed and implemented project plans and budgets to ensure successful execution.
- Followed all company policies and procedures to deliver quality work.
- Improved customer satisfaction rates through proactive problem-solving and efficient complaint resolution.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals on time and within budget.
- Implemented new training programs for staff, leading to higher employee retention rates and better overall performance.
- Championed the adoption of new software tools that streamlined workflows across multiple departments.
- Initiated sustainability program, reducing company's environmental impact.
- Improved team collaboration by initiating regular strategy meetings.
- Led quality assurance efforts, maintaining high standards for all products and services.
- Facilitated workshops for professional development of junior staff members.
- Conducted in-depth market research for identifying new business opportunities.
UNITED NATIONS YOUTH ASSOCIATE SPECIALIST
United Nations Development Programme Zambia
07.2020 - 11.2020
- Coordinate and monitor sensitization activities by Community Youth Volunteers (CYVs).
- Covid19 Sensitization during the Covid19 Pandemic
- Facilitated timely distribution of data collection/reporting tools and IEC materials and ensured correct completion by Community Youth Volunteers/Environmental Health Technologists.
- Worked in collaboration with Zone Leaders and EHTs, to ensure timely collection of over 10,0000 data collection/reporting tools from CYVS for onward submission to MYSCD/UNDP
- Prepared periodic reports on the work of CYVs and documented lessons learned.
- Reported to UNDP senior Management any issues raised by CYVs and EHTs
- Volunteers during Covid-19. This included guiding multi-sectoral stakeholders.
- Monitored CYVs’ achievements, results, efficiency, and effectiveness of sensitization of locals during and after the COVID-19 pandemic
- Collected and wrote articles on community sensitization/volunteering experiences and submitted them to UNDP for publication.
- Encouraged CYVs to engage in volunteer activities not necessarily linked to their core tasks.
- Assisted in the planning and implementation of age-appropriate curriculum across various programs, ensuring relevance to diverse groups of youth.
- Offered insightful input in team meetings that resulted in streamlined processes for improved overall efficiency in service delivery.
- Collaborated with fellow associates for effective planning and execution of youth events and activities.
- Increased attendance to programs by actively promoting events through social media, flyers, and word-of-mouth referrals.
- Demonstrated adaptability by adjusting program plans as needed to accommodate unexpected changes, maintaining a high level of service quality.
- Contributed to fundraising efforts by assisting with event planning, donor recognition, and grant writing initiatives as needed.
- Enhanced youth engagement by implementing innovative and interactive activities in programs.
- Identified opportunities for improvement within existing programming by conducting thorough needs assessments among target populations.
- Coordinated volunteer recruitment efforts that resulted in increased community involvement within various programs.
- Developed and maintained relationships with community organizations and agencies.
- Monitored progress towards service plan goals.
- Provided support to social service clients in navigating available resources.
- Facilitated outreach activities to build community awareness.
- Cultivated and maintained relationships with community members to facilitate outreach activities.
- Participated in meetings with stakeholders to discuss program objectives and strategies.
- Monitored and evaluated the impact of social services on the community.
- Coordinated with local government to provide resources to clients.
- Developed and implemented programs to engage and empower undeserved populations.
- Implemented and developed programs to address poverty and inequality.
- Spoke with senior citizen groups to expand community engagement and program outreach.
- Assisted in developing grant proposals to support social service initiatives.
- Implemented positive reinforcement strategies to encourage respectful behavior amongst participants during program sessions.
- Established partnerships with local organizations to provide additional resources or services beneficial to program participants.
- Maintained accurate records of attendance, incident reports, and evaluations to ensure proper documentation for future reference.
- Improved participant satisfaction by regularly evaluating and modifying program content based on feedback.
- Ensured safety of all participants by adhering to established guidelines and protocols during program sessions.
- Facilitated open dialogue between parents and staff members, addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
- Developed strong relationships with participants, fostering a sense of trust and support within the community.
- Managed registration process efficiently, resulting in timely communication with families regarding program availability.
- Provided empathetic guidance to resolve conflicts among participants, contributing to a more harmonious group dynamic.
- Mentored new Youth Associates as they joined the organization, providing guidance and support in their professional development.
- Facilitated communication between clients and other service providers.
- Developed and maintained accurate records of programs and services.
- Determined needed and relevant interventions based on each client's cognitive abilities and current needs.
- Developed and implemented strategies to enhance the quality of social services.
- Collaborated with various stakeholders to promote social services.
- Administered and tracked client service payments.
PROJECT COORDINATOR - SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Bari Zambia Limited
09.2017 - 07.2020
- Coordinating logistics for meetings, workshops, and conferences with local stakeholders and chiefs
- Prepared at leasest 5 monthly updated reports on which invoices/fee notes/payment certificates have been submitted to clients and which ones are pending payments
- Establishing document retention and ensuring staff records are kept up to date
- Undertook compliance checks relating to HR Governance in the recruitment process for over 50 staff.
- Overall management mobilization and supervision of 50 staff within the organization (Lusaka branch)
- Helping elderly people overcome their anxiety and providing temporary shelter to stranded persons awaiting community integration due to project displacement.
- Delivered high-impact results by skillfully guiding projects through all stages of planning, development, and implementation.
- Conducted research and gathered key information for use in upcoming project planning.
- Developed comprehensive project plans, outlining objectives, milestones, deadlines, and resource requirements.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams for successful project completion, fostering collaboration and teamwork.
- Fostered positive relationships with clients through transparent communication channels and proactive issue-resolution efforts.
- Streamlined project management processes by implementing efficient tracking and communication systems.
- Evaluated project performance against established metrics, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions as needed.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments to proactively identify potential issues and develop contingency plans accordingly.
- Improved client satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality results on time and within budget.
- Kept meticulous records of all costs and expenses and analyzed that data against budget.
- Maintained a strong focus on quality control throughout all stages of project development, ensuring adherence to industry standards and client expectations.
- Managed budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure the successful execution of multiple projects simultaneously.
- Collaborated closely with stakeholders to establish clear objectives aligned with their unique needs while maintaining alignment with organizational goals.
- Enhanced organizational efficiency by developing standardized templates and tools for consistent deliverables across all projects.
- Championed continuous improvement initiatives within the organization through regular review of existing processes and identification of opportunities for optimization.
- Mentored junior team members in best practices for project management while maintaining a supportive work environment conducive to learning.
- Presented regular progress updates to senior leadership, highlighting achievements as well as challenges encountered during project execution.
- Established clear lines of communication between team members and stakeholders, facilitating ongoing dialogue for timely issue resolution.
- Leveraged expert knowledge of industry trends to inform strategic decision-making in support of long-term organizational goals.
- Developed and implemented project plans and budgets to ensure successful execution.
- Analyzed project performance data to identify areas of improvement.
- Tracked project and team member performance closely to quickly intervene in mistakes or delays.
- Recruited and oversaw personnel to achieve performance and quality targets.
- Facilitated workshops to collect project requirements and user feedback.
- Scheduled and facilitated meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts.
- Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
CHILD PROTECTION CASE OFFICER
Child Fund Zambia
08.2016 - 12.2016
- Advocated for clients'' needs during meetings with supervisors or other authorities, ensuring fair representation and due process were followed.
- Assisted with the development of training materials for new hires, sharing knowledge and expertise within the team environment.
- Enhanced case resolution by effectively managing and prioritizing caseloads of at least 20 children per week.
- Conducted thorough investigations to gather relevant information, leading to more accurate case assessments.
- Successfully resolved complex cases by applying critical thinking skills and utilizing a comprehensive understanding of policies and regulations such as at Child Safety Week.
- Improved client satisfaction by providing timely updates and maintaining open lines of communication to at least 60 families in Keembe district, Zambia.
- Reduced backlog of pending cases by implementing efficient time management strategies for more effective handling.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, fostering trust and rapport for better outcomes in case management.
- Coordinated community outreach programs that increased public awareness and engagement to at least 80 families.
- Negotiated favorable resolutions between all parties involved in a case while upholding ethical standards at all times.
- Supported team members during high-stress periods or when additional assistance was needed, contributing to overall team success.
- Contributed to interdepartmental collaboration efforts that led to improved service delivery across various sectors.
- Managed sensitive information discreetly, maintaining confidentiality as required by law or company policy.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on industry trends and advancements in the field of case management.
- Collaborated with colleagues to share best practices and develop innovative solutions for challenging cases.
- Monitored case progress for timely completion and compliance with applicable regulations in at least 28 cases.
- Maintained a high level of client confidentiality, following strict guidelines, and recommendations.
- Assessed and evaluated at least 300 clients' needs, determined eligibility for services, and developed individualized plans.
- Conducted home visits to assess the living environment and provided appropriate referrals to at least 80 households.
- Assisted clients in preparing applications for social security benefits, housing, and assistance programs like the social cash transfer and farming support input system (FISP).
- Provided crisis intervention and case management services to 300 children, families, and legal guardians.
- Advocated for client rights and represented client interests at administrative hearings.
- Offered support and direction to over 100 families and coordinated with the court system and other community agencies for treatment.
- Recorded case notes and performed follow-up documentation for admitted and transferred patients; led both group and individual counseling sessions.
- Documented progress in treatment plans, educational, and recreational activities and maintained updated case records.
- Determined eligibility and suitability for programs by performing client intake interviews and bio-psycho-social assessments.
- Coordinated and managed volunteer activities for community service projects while supervising over 400 people.
- Led at least over 60 group discussions and activities to meet different community needs.
- Approached issues proactively to best meet current and future community needs.
- Facilitated community outreach to expand participation and support.
- Helped clients navigate the social services system and access needed resources.
- Coordinated with different service providers to meet clients' individual needs.
- Educated young people about strategies for driving discussions and promoting social changes. to at least 120 teenagers.
- Tracked service activities and outcomes against outlined plans and goals.
- Gathered opinions and support from grass-roots supporters to solidify group position with local traditional leaders.
- Maintained an internal database of service workers, participants, activities, and other relevant details.
- Intervened in crises to obtain support for clients and reduce escalation or recurrence risks.
- Provided expert guidance to clients on available resources, helping them make informed decisions about their situations.
- Evaluated data and trends to identify areas for future improvement, leading to more effective case management strategies and enhanced client outcomes.
- Maintained meticulous records, ensuring accurate documentation and easy retrieval of essential information.
- Assessed the needs of each client and recommended appropriate services and resources.
- Created treatment or service plans meeting each client's individualized needs.
- Facilitated client support groups to provide resources and assistance.
- Supported clients through the development of new life skills, obtaining resources, and transitioning back to society.
TRAINEE PEER COUNSELOR
Ministry of Community Development Mother and Child Health, Matero After Care
10.2015 - 11.2015
- Attended training courses to build an understanding of processes, techniques, and industry.
- Participated in on-the-job training, working closely with supervisors and coworkers and asking appropriate questions.
- Attended training courses to build an understanding of processes, techniques, and industry.
- Supported departmental tasks to increase understanding of industry processes.
- Collaborated with employees from various backgrounds.
- Supported organizational objectives with help from existing employees.
- Established lasting relationships with peers, leadership, and customers using strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Performed administrative functions, answering phones and filing paperwork in support of the department.
- Enhanced trainee experience by developing comprehensive orientation programs and hands-on training sessions.
- Interacted with customers under supervision to support operational objectives.
- Filled out time sheets and paperwork according to identified requirements.
- Facilitated practical application of newly acquired skills through real-world scenarios and role-playing exercises.
- Developed strong working relationships with trainees, fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Identified areas of improvement in current training programs and implemented necessary changes for better outcomes.
- Acted with integrity, honesty, and knowledge to promote the culture of the company.
- Evaluated trainee progress through skill assessments and performance reviews, ensuring ongoing development.
- Organized engaging team-building activities that fostered strong connections between participants and enhanced group dynamics.
- Performed administrative functions, answering phones and filing paperwork in support of department.
- Promoted positive collaboration among trainees, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Assisted in planning and executing community outreach programs, increasing brand visibility and engagement.
- Supported project managers with documentation, leading to better project tracking and communication.
- Participated in safety drills, ensuring readiness in case of workplace emergencies.
- Participated in weekly team meetings to offer insights, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Participated in industry workshops and seminars, continuously expanding professional knowledge and skills.
- Operated cash registers and managed financial transactions.
- Counseled at least 50 students individually to assist in overcoming obstacles, making proper choices to stay focused and adjusting to college life.
Education
Master of Arts - Peace And Development Work
Linnaeus University
Växjö, Sweden09.2026
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work - Social Work
University of Zambia
Lusaka03.2019
Associate of Arts - Community Psychology
The University of Zambia
Lusaka, Zambia 10.2018
GCE 'O' Level Certificate (Grade 12) - High School Deploma
Roma Girls Secondary School
Lusaka12.2012
Skills
- Effective communicator and good interpersonal skills
- Computer literate and proficient with MS Office Suite
- Experience in counseling and healing wounds
- Good at working with the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities and mental health challenges
- Good at working under hostile war tone, disaster risk and rural conditions
- Project Planning Monitoring and Evaluation
- Independent Thinker
- Software Knowledge
- Multi-tasking skills
- Organization skills
- Project Management
- Client communications
- Client Relations
- Report Writing
- Project regulations
- Effective project management
- Project Planning
- Requirements Analysis
- Cost Control
- Scope Management
- Quality Control
- Project Scheduling
- Purchasing and procurement
- Stakeholder Management
- Risk Management
- Worksite safety
- Risk Analysis
- Mentoring
- Project Coordination
- Project Documentation
- Software Development
- Resource Allocation
- Work Planning and Prioritization
- Team Leadership
- Budget Control
- Quality Assurance
- Microsoft Visio
- ERP Software
- Information Technology Management
- Relationship Building
- Conflict Resolution
- Staff Management
- Asana software
Accomplishments
- Successfully Hosted and Oversaw the hosting of a Youth-Led SDG Summit in 2024
- Successfully put together a team of women-led SMEs that represented Zambia at the AFCFTA in Egypt and Madagascar.
- Collaborated with a team of 12 in the development of the National Youth Policy - Zambia
- Achieved Policy Implementation by effectively helping with the final draft resolution of the Zambia National Youth Policy Document in 2023.
- Currently Supervising a team of 6 staff members.
- Achieved a 17- and 39 member team successful representation of Zambia Country team participation at the 2022 and 2023 Africa YouthConnekt Sumit delegation through effectively helping with active interaction and Youth spaces.
- Achieved Successful Hosting of the Africa Youth SDG summit by completing the event management with accuracy and efficiency in 2022
Certification
- Ethics and Integrity at UNDP
- Anti-fraud e-learning: Fraud and Corruption Awareness and Prevention
- Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of the Local Population (PSEA)
- Preventing Sexual Harassment and Other Prohibited Conduct
- The Gender Journey
- UNDP Legal Framework
- United Nations Human Rights Responsibilities
- Disability Inclusion: Building an Inclusive and Accessible United Nations
- 2021 - Present, Social Workers Association of Zambia, Member of the Social Workers Association of Zambia
- 2018, The University of Zambia, Certificate in Psychosocial Counselling
- 2010 - 2012, Roma Girls Secondary School, Advanced Certificate in Microsoft Word, Excel and Web Designing
Physical Address
House No. 6, Eliot Court, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
Leadership Experience
- Vice president of the climate change school program - Roma Girls Secondary school
- Committee member of The University of Zambia Social Work Association (UNZASWA)
Mailing Address
C/O Pr. Thomson Kalinda, School of Agricultural Sciences, Lusaka, Zambia, P. O. Box 32379
Personal Information
Nationality: Zambian
References
- Mr. Brian Mushaukwa, Project Officer, Path Zambia, Brianmushaukwa@gmail.com, +260 974 425 017
- Mr. Chembo Simukanga, Credit Analyst, Nat-Save Zambia, Chembo.simukanga@natsave.co.za, +260 971 969 020
- Mr. Mwangana Amukena, UNDP Project Manager - Human Resettlement, United Nations Development Programme Lusaka, Mwangana.amukena@undp.org, +260 977 537 599
- Ms. Lauraine Munkanta, Data Quality Expert, Kloeckner.i Gmbh, lauraine.munkanta@gmail.com, +49 1523 5851159
Affiliations
- United Nations Zambia
- Ministry of Youth Sports and Arts - Zambia
- Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development
Languages
English
Native language
Tonga
Proficient
C2
French
Intermediate
B1
Timeline
PROGRAMME ASSOCIATE - YOUTH NATIONAL SPECIALIST
United Nations Development Programme
07.2021 - Current
UNITED NATIONS YOUTH ASSOCIATE SPECIALIST
United Nations Development Programme Zambia
07.2020 - 11.2020
PROJECT COORDINATOR - SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Bari Zambia Limited
09.2017 - 07.2020
CHILD PROTECTION CASE OFFICER
Child Fund Zambia
08.2016 - 12.2016
TRAINEE PEER COUNSELOR
Ministry of Community Development Mother and Child Health, Matero After Care
10.2015 - 11.2015
- Ethics and Integrity at UNDP
- Anti-fraud e-learning: Fraud and Corruption Awareness and Prevention
- Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of the Local Population (PSEA)
- Preventing Sexual Harassment and Other Prohibited Conduct
- The Gender Journey
- UNDP Legal Framework
- United Nations Human Rights Responsibilities
- Disability Inclusion: Building an Inclusive and Accessible United Nations
- 2021 - Present, Social Workers Association of Zambia, Member of the Social Workers Association of Zambia
- 2018, The University of Zambia, Certificate in Psychosocial Counselling
- 2010 - 2012, Roma Girls Secondary School, Advanced Certificate in Microsoft Word, Excel and Web Designing
Master of Arts - Peace And Development Work
Linnaeus University
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work - Social Work
University of Zambia
Associate of Arts - Community Psychology
The University of Zambia
GCE 'O' Level Certificate (Grade 12) - High School Deploma
Roma Girls Secondary School
Similar Profiles
Ahlam BurahAhlam Burah
HR Assistant at United Nations Development ProgrammeHR Assistant at United Nations Development Programme
Oksana KosenkoOksana Kosenko
Civil Society Project Coordinator at United Nations Development Programme in UkraineCivil Society Project Coordinator at United Nations Development Programme in Ukraine
Mangaliso MohammedMangaliso Mohammed
Sustainable Development Specialist at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Eswatini Country OfficeSustainable Development Specialist at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Eswatini Country Office