Today, we’re putting the spotlight on Nduulwa Kowa, the Marian Ivers Intern here at the Women’s Fund of Omaha. Ndu joined the Women’s Fund in September 2016 and works on a wide range of projects ranging from marketing, public relations, and social media. She graduated in December with a bachelor of arts in International Studies, concentrations in International Management, Global Strategic Studies and a minor in Business from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Ndu is passionate about combating the issues facing women globally and domestically, and hopes to work with organizations aimed at improving the lives of women.
We sat with Ndu and asked her a few questions about her experience at the Women’s Fund, and what she likes to do outside of work.
What’s your favorite part of working for the Women’s Fund?
My favorite part of working with the Women’s Fund has to be seeing how passionate everyone is about the work that they do. It’s truly inspiring to be in a work environment like this. I hope to work with nonprofits after graduating and I couldn’t think of a better place to learn and work.
Describe the Women’s Fund in 3 words.
Community-focused, Empowering, Passionate
Best thing about living/working in Omaha?
I’ve lived in Omaha for over 11 years now and I enjoy it. I’m originally from Zambia, a country in southern Africa so I still find the winters a bit brutal. Other than that, I love the diversity and find it to be a great place to work. I’m also a foodie so I’m always exploring the city to find great spots to eat. The downtown area is one of my favorites to get good sushi, go out with friends, or just walk around.
When you’re not working, what’s your favorite thing to do?
I love to travel, when I can afford it of course. I went to Colorado, Minnesota and Florida last year and hope to dedicate more time to seeing different places now that I’m done with school. I have family all over the world so I hope to take advantage of that and do some more international travel.
What’s one goal you hope to accomplish within the next year?
I hope to have a concrete plan this year. I’m kind of in that period where I can’t decide between working full-time or pursuing a master’s degree. I guess I could choose to do both. I just need to take more time to reflect.
What’s the most interesting or unusual job you’ve ever had?
I was a sales rep for a company that marketed high-end knives right after I graduated high school. So, I was a 16-year-old going into people’s homes trying to convince them to buy knives from me. I should’ve just stuck to working at the mall but it taught me how to relate to people and definitely helped me get out of my shell.
What are you reading or listening to these days?
I use Tidal for my music so I’m always listening to my favorite Lauryn Hill, Jazmine Sullivan and Beyoncé albums. I’m currently listening to Solange’s new album “A Seat at the Table” and “Uhai” by Wezi, she’s a Zambian artist.
I’m currently reading a book called “Dead Aid” by Dambisa Moyo. It’s a very insightful read. She’s an economist and explores how all of the monetary aid that’s been given to Africa over the last few decades has actually hurt Africa more than it has helped it.
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would you like to see cast as you?
I would have to say Gabrielle Union. She has a sweet personality and grew up in Omaha just like I did. I also really admire Taraji P. Henson so I think she could play my slightly more bold and fierce alter ego.