Sheetal Ramesh Shah
Department:   Programme and Communications
Period of volunteer:  from June to August 2004
How did you use your time during your tenure in PEN:
I was fortunate enough to immediately be able to get into work. I worked on content for the website, and supported programme staff on their work in the field.
PEN gave me a great opportunity to get an insight into an NGO, and was open to me getting involved in different projects across the board.”
I learnt a lot in my time at PEN, the most useful being the contact we got to have with the partner organizations working in the field. That increased my understanding of CBOs, self help groups and the challenges they face. It also brought to light the kinds of engagements that bring out the most sustainability. It also gave me a greater appreciation of the amount of work that goes into alleviating poverty. It also has stayed with me, I’ve now completed a Masters in development, and have been working with an international non governmental organization, managing my own programmes!
I certainly think that PEN contributed to my growth and increased my self esteem, especially working with the Go Down groups on strategy planning, and going on field trips to Western Kenya. It certainly affected my career choice!
PEN can be a great springboard. Just keep your mind open and be willing to get involved in all aspects of the organization, from programme to communications to administration. Its all crucial work to achieving our goal of an equitable society.

Innocent Misiko
Department:   Programmes
Period of volunteer: From 2006 to 2007
How did you use your time during your tenure in PEN:
During your tenure in PEN  I supported programme staff in day today running of programme activities and trained PEN partners on microfinance policies and procedures
PEN is a very professional organization that guarantees a perfect working environment, very supportive staff that mentors and equips interns and volunteers with the necessary skills and experience. PEN treats  interns and volunteers as part of the PEN family especially not being left out during the staff retreats
I developed and trained PEN partners in microfinance policies, procedures and structures that resulted in improved policy development and implementation among women group members in Olkeri, Matasia and Virun in Eldoret.
I have developed both as a person and professionally through the experience and mentorship gained as a volunteer. I can now work perfectly and confidently without any supervision
There is no institution in the world that offers experience only volunteerism does, as long as you enjoy what you are doing without having too much monetary expectation.

Lucy Njigua
Department:   Programs (Training and NGO Capacity Building)
Period of volunteer: From 2006 to 2007
How did you use your time during your tenure in PEN:
I learnt a lot from everyone and especially the director.  One of PEN’s  goals of mentoring a new skilled staff for the NGO sector in the country has worked perfectly.
Being given a chance to support in workshops and working closely with PEN facilitators was a good first experience to learn more on Non-profit management. Through hand holding and deliberate determination of the director who exposed us to all scenarios from  the simplest to the most challenging situations broaden my thinking and boasted my confidence.
I acquired interventions methods and skills in management of  local NGOs in view of  challenges that they encounter and opportunities that are available.
The NGO program and the training department that I worked in  harnesses my understanding of all the factors that contribute to a successful Non -profit organization.
My volunteer experience has opened doors for me my career path. It gave me an opportunity to narrow down on exactly what areas of development I want to specialize in. I am currently working with Academy for Educational Development (AED) under the Capable Partners Program (CAP –Kenya) as an Institutional Strengthening Officer.  Under this program I manage over 60 local NGOs in assessing the organization and supporting them to develop improvement plans thereafter i offer technical support to bridge the gaps identified.

I definitely have an increased self confidence and self esteem. I am able to articulate myself in a group of people. I am no longer intimidated by a person position since I am clear and knowledgeable in my field.

If your career path is in the Non- Profit organizations, you have  definitely chosen the right place to volunteer.  Have an open mind and be ready to soak in as much as possible. Remember that you have joined PEN to learn and its one step to achieving your career goal.