Meet Otis Kollie! As a Program Specialist for Africa and Asia, Otis will help both regional teams with grantmaking as well as utilizing data and research for learning. Otis is based in Liberia.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT WHERE YOU’RE FROM AND ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND?

I am Otis Kollie and I am from the Republic of Liberia in West Africa. I am married and my preferred pronouns are: he/him/his. I hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration and economics with a minor in public administration from the African Methodist Episcopal University in Liberia. I am a certified project management professional with more than eight years of experience within the project and program management setting.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY?

My favorite childhood memory is my school gala day program when I was in kindergarten. That was one of my best childhood days and I enjoyed it. I was very happy and had nothing to worry about but just enjoyed the moment.

WHAT DREW YOU TO THIS LINE OF WORK AND TO GFC?

I am a very passionate person; I always love to help others. During the time of my secondary education, I joined a student-based organization and learned about the work of humanitarian organizations. Hence, I developed an interest in global development and began serving since then.

WHAT DO YOU THINK WILL BE THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR JOB?

Working remotely, the most challenging aspect of my job will involve constancy/stability in my network connection, but I have managed to overcome this challenge by investing in new and better internet connection devices that are working pretty well.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE GFC’S WORK IS IMPORTANT?

Today, we live in an increasingly dangerous world where the rights of children and young people are abused globally. GFC’s work to support children and youth in disadvantaged and marginalized communities around the world is vital to help children, young people, and the organizations that represent them realize their full potential. GFC’s work is also very important because of the real life-changing impact GFC continues to have on the local partners and organizations that they work with. GFC’s work with cutting-edge organizations that are already working to solve these challenges in their communities goes a long way in achieving the actual change that allows children and young people to live their best lives free from the threats of poverty and vulnerability.

#FunFacts

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE TOY GROWING UP?

As a child, my favorite was a toy truck.  It was so enjoyable driving it around my parents’ living room and kitchen. I felt like a licensed driver but with no insurance.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

Growing up, I always wanted to be a diplomat.  I loved the work that diplomats do, the way diplomats looked, and the way they talked as well.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN?

I love to swim, exercise, or just have quiet time at a beach or resort. With my family, I love to hang out and just have fun.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS?

Yes, I have a dog named Shephard. He’s very energetic and loves to run around the house.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE? 

I would love the power to help women and children in vulnerable circumstances.  I feel empathy deeply when I see people suffer.