Breaking the mold by Twaha Hussein

Well, instead of being a mechanic, I ended up understanding and addressing the needs of employees.

I know you might be surprised how I ended up here right? Growing up, my interests were in science subjects, and I pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering at university. However, as I progressed through my studies, I found that my passion laid in a different direction.

“The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude” Oprah Winfrey

During my second year at university, I decided to add a minor degree in Automation and ultimately graduated with a degree in Electrical and Automation Engineering. After graduation, I had the opportunity to join the Management Trainee program at NMB, where I had the opportunity to work in various departments of the bank, including HR. It was during this time that I began to discover my interest in understanding people and interpreting data to inform better decision-making. I found that my analytical skills were transferable to HR, and I could positively contribute to HR-related issues.

Certainly! The challenge of switching from engineering principle to HR principles is the shift in focus from technical problem solving to people-oriented problem solving. In engineering, the focus is on designing and implementing systems or products that meet specific technical requirements. In contrast, HR involves understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of employees and stakeholders, such as employee engagement, performance management, and organizational culture.

“The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails” William Ward

This realization sparked a shift in my mindset, as I began to understand the importance of approaching problem solving from a people perspective and during my attachment in Southern Zone; I was able to see firsthand the impact that HR has on the employees and the organization as a whole. This experience allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the role that HR plays in shaping an organization's culture and supporting its employees. I also learned that while technical skills are important, having strong interpersonal skills and ability to empathize with others is crucial in being an effective HR professional. Overall, my attachment in the Southern Zone was a valuable learning experience that helped me grow both personally and professionally.

After completion of my attachment in Southern Zone, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in HR. However, I recognized that I needed to acquire more knowledge and skills in the field. Therefore, I began taking courses, attending workshops and seminars, and reading extensively on the subject. Through hard work and dedication, I was able to develop my skills and knowledge in HR and successfully transitioned into a career.

“Courage is the power to let go of the familiar” Raymond Lindquist

It is essential to recognize that while the degree you obtain may influence your career path, the skills and knowledge gained during your university education can be invaluable in shaping your professional journey, regardless of where you end up. Looking back on my journey, I am proud of the steps I took to pursue what I felt was right for me, with challenges along the way, that did not stop me from achieving what I believed was my strength.

Today, I enjoy a fulfilling career in HR, where I am able to combine my analytical skills with my passion for working with people and making a positive impact in the organization