Some have a passion for adventure and some have a passion for helping others. Luigi Nuñez (Zeta Iota Chapter ‘17, Todd Tripod Scholarship Recipient ‘16) has both. A student of Mathematics and Computer Science, Nuñez works in Kampala, Uganda as an E-Learning Officer for Population Services International (PSI). PSI is a global nonprofit focused on the encouragement of healthy behavior and affordability of health products, making it easier for people in the developing world to lead healthier lives.
“I knew since my first year in undergrad that I wanted to work abroad after graduation,” says Nuñez. After interning with St. Joseph’s University’s Immersion Program and coordinating several domestic and international trips, Nuñez says “my passion for working among a diverse group of individuals and traveling to new countries became clear.”
A dream came true when Nuñez applied to be a Global Health Corps Fellow. When applying, you are asked to apply to up to three positions within Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, the U.S. and Zambia. “The E-Learning Officer position at PSI-Uganda fascinated me,” said Nuñez. “I was looking for an opportunity to use these technical skills for social good.” Nuñez is joined by a Co-Fellow with PSI-Uganda; Pauline Namutebi, who was born and raised in Kampala, Uganda and serves as the Sales and Trade Development Officer.
As E-Learning Officer, Nuñez’s main task is to increase learning and data use by both improving existing data systems and technologies and implementing innovative solutions for gaps in data. “The ultimate goal is better decision-making, both operational and strategic,” says Nuñez, who takes on a variety of other tasks including leading a team in a health network quality improvement system, facilitating capacity-building meetings and supervising field teams.
“One aspect of this work that truly interested me was the global health component. I have no background in the field, but the social issues within health, education and immigration are close to home and important to me,” say Nuñez, whose parents are immigrants from the Dominican Republic. Nuñez has a heart for people. “My friends here and I often discuss social issues, such as gender inequality and racial injustice, and share our resources and knowledge as often as possible.” All that Nuñez does with his team in Uganda is for the purpose of improving humanity, on and off the job.
Moving to an area can be challenging, especially when it’s a whole new country, but Nuñez was able to find comfort in Brotherhood. “You will be surprised by the PSP community you may come across outside of the U.S.,” he explains. “A Zeta Iota Chapter Alumnae arrived in Uganda a month before I did, and we were able to meet up before she left. That time helped me feel more comfortable and at-home.” Though Nuñez has made a point to immerse himself in his work and the culture by ignoring his phone as much as possible, he does keep in touch with various Zeta Iota Chapter Members back home from time to time.
He’s not opposed to moving back to the U.S. when the time comes, but Nuñez’s heart for adventure would really like to continue working with PSI-Uganda or a NGO in Europe, Southeast Asia or Africa. For those who also have their sights set on working abroad, Nuñez offers some advice. “I definitely recommend doing your research about the country to which you are moving. There are many things we take for granted and assume are ‘correct’ and ‘normal’ that many people around the world do not view as such,” he says. “If you are considering working abroad, I highly recommend reflecting about why you are moving and what specific actions and behaviors you can take up or leave behind to maximize the experience.”
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