Professional Profile: 

Irene Janet Achen is a seasoned and dedicated Christian development worker, child and youth mentor, advocate, and educationist with over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector. Her extensive background in project management, human resource management, and stakeholder engagement has equipped her with the skills necessary to drive impactful change within vulnerable communities.

Irene Janet Achen holds a Bachelor of Arts with Education from Kyambogo University, where she honed her skills in education and community engagement, graduating in 2007. She further enhanced her leadership capabilities by obtaining a Certificate in Effective Leadership and Management from the London Institute of Business and Management in 2011. Additionally, Irene has completed various in-job trainings, earning certificates in Results-Based Management, Financial Management, Lobbying and Advocacy, Internal Governance, and Strategic Planning and Management. These qualifications have provided her with a strong foundation to lead and manage complex projects effectively.

Irene has been the Program Manager at GLOFORD Uganda since February 2020 and her role at the organization highlights her exceptional leadership in coordinating and implementing youth leadership projects and programs. Her experience entails oversight of program administration, conducting capacity-building trainings, and leading recruitment and mentoring initiatives. Irene excels in developing strategic relationships with multi-lateral agencies, local NGOs, government departments, and donor communities, significantly contributing to the successful implementation of projects like the Youth Leadership and Empowerment for Advancing Democracy (YLEAD) in partnership with GIZ.

Compassion International-Assisted Project
November 2011 – December 2019
Irene has served in several other roles including; Project Administrator/Director streamlining operations and managed recruitment and training. She developed and implemented administrative systems and policies, designed strategies for holistic child development, and maintained comprehensive databases for planning and budgeting. Her ability to prepare detailed reports and coordinate sponsor visits showcases her proficiency in project management and stakeholder engagement.

Stanbic Bank Uganda
In her role as a Know Your Customer (KYC) Officer at Stanbic Bank, Irene ensured accurate customer data management and provided financial advice, maintaining proper records to meet regulatory requirements. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards.

As Return Monitoring and Protection Officer/Camp Coordinator at Arbeiter Samariter Bund (ASB), Irene managed the coordination and implementation of return monitoring and camp management programs. She worked closely with local government and communities to address protection concerns and environmental management in internally displaced persons’ camps. This experience honed her skills in crisis management and community engagement, directly benefiting her work at GLOFORD in addressing complex community challenges.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Outstanding oral and written communication.
• Proficient in project coordination and support.
• Expertise in advocacy, lobbying, and networking.
• Results-oriented team player with mentoring and coaching experience.
• Adept in ICT technologies, including MS Office and online learning management systems.

Irene Janet Achen’s professional journey reflects her commitment to enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations through strategic project management, capacity building, and strong leadership. Her collaborative approach and dedication to excellence make her a valuable asset to driving sustainable development and community empowerment initiatives.