In an era defined by rapid information exchange, rising global challenges, and the need for authentic youth engagement, Juhye Kim stands at the intersection of communication and impact. As an Associate Communication Officer at the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Abuja, she is not just communicating United Nations messages – she is translating global priorities into the language, culture, and consciousness of young people.
Originally from the Republic of Korea, Juhye represents a powerful example of cross-cultural collaboration within the United Nations system. Her story is not of someone who always dreamed of working at the UN, but of a passionate professional who followed her values of public service, truth, and meaningful communication and ultimately found herself helping to shape the future of global discourse in Africa’s largest youth nation.
“At the core of my work lies a single objective: to communicate the UN’s messages in the language of young people,” she explains. “I use various platforms from social media and newsletters to events to connect with youth wherever they are, regardless of medium or location.”
A Journey of Purpose, Not Ambition
Unlike many who pursue the UN from the beginning of their careers, Juhye’s path evolved organically through a search for meaning.
She began in public broadcasting in Korea, where she worked at a media station committed to public interest narratives. Later on, she transitioned to an NGO, gaining firsthand experience in advocacy, storytelling, and grassroots communication.
These experiences shaped her belief that communication is not merely a support function, it is a tool of empowerment and social change.
“I need to be convinced that what I do is meaningful before I commit myself to it.” she says. I didn’t chase the UN, I followed the purpose. Eventually, purpose led me to the UN.”
Her move to Nigeria was another step on the following of that purpose. A quest driven by a desire to immerse herself in a different region, understand development dynamics firsthand, and ensure communication is now a core mechanism for partnership-building and transformation.
UN at 80: A Moment of Renewal
As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, Juhye sees this moment as a reflection point in global history.
“We live in a time when multilateralism is needed more than ever and yet paradoxically it is most at risk,” she reflects. “This anniversary is not just a celebration of history, but a critical moment for reform and renewal.”
For her, the future of the UN is one where communication becomes more human, accessible, and youth-driven. She envisions a United Nations that is not seen as distant or bureaucratic, but as a living system that interacts with communities in real-time, reflecting their needs, hopes, and contributions.
A Call for Youth Integration in UN Decision-Making
Juhye believes the UN has made progress in youth engagement, but the next step must be structural.
She advocates for:
- Increased youth representation in substantive decision-making roles, not just advisory positions.
- Mechanisms that ensure youth inputs lead to policy influence, not just dialogue outcomes.
- Long-term integration of youth priorities into national planning and program implementation.
- Strengthening intergenerational collaboration to co-create solutions for future generations.
“Youth should not only be seen as partners or participants, but as active contributors to reforming and advancing the UN from within,” she emphasises.
Her Message to Young Professionals
In a world where many are fixated on landing prestigious roles, Juhye shares a grounded piece of wisdom:
“Don’t start by chasing the UN itself; start by building expertise in what you love. When passion meets purpose and skill, opportunities will follow.”
A Bridge Between Nations, Generations, and Ideas
Today, as a Korean national playing a leading communications role in Nigeria, Juhye represents a new face of global cooperation, one where young people from different regions work hand in hand to advance peace, truth, and sustainable development.
Juhye is not just a UN staff member; she is a cultural connector, a champion for youth voices, and a storyteller for the future of multilateralism.
Her story sends a resounding message to youth everywhere:
You don’t have to be born in a global capital to shape global impact. You just need purpose, skill, and the willingness to begin where you are.
