Transformative experiences at SDA Bocconi: an interview with UNFPA’s Noemi Dalmonte, 2022 EMMIO Alumna

Why did Noemi Dalmonte, a seasoned professional from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), choose the Executive Master in Management of International Organizations (EMMIO) at SDA Bocconi? We sat down with her to understand the motivations for this decision and the impact it’s had on her international career.

Noemi’s journey to EMMIO began during her time at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), where she initially focused on gender-based violence coordination and programming and now leads the design, planning and implementation of the agency’s mandate in sexual and reproductive health, gender equality and population dynamics. While managing a fast-growing program to end violence against women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), she recognized the need to make a bigger impact, and the hybrid nature of EMMIO, which combines in-person and remote learning, presented a particularly appealing opportunity.

Driven by a vision to achieve greater professional efficiency, Noemi sought a program that would enhance her extensive experience and technical expertise with advanced managerial skills, especially in project management and human resources. EMMIO’s comprehensive curriculum offered her the practical tools and knowledge necessary to oversee a large international team and manage dynamic projects.

“The EMMIO program was transformative for me, providing both the skills and confidence to excel in complex international environments,” Noemi explained. Additionally, the diverse cohort of students, including professionals from NGOs, European institutions and the private sector, enriched the learning experience and provided valuable networking opportunities.

The program significantly influenced Noemi’s professional and personal development, enabling her to refine her approach to management by adopting modern concepts like agile and servant leadership. These methods, rooted in trust and kindness, are particularly valuable for navigating the cultural and societal nuances of international settings.

EMMIO also significantly improved her self-awareness and clarity of vision, allowing Noemi to transition from a technical role to a senior management position, significantly expanding her influence and decision-making power. “Self-awareness is one of the top aspects of EMMIO,” she noted. “It helped me recognize the importance of aligning my work with a deeper purpose which, for me, meant reinforcing my commitment to creating a peaceful and more inclusive world, particularly for women. This focus on purpose is essential for building the confidence required for effective leadership.”

Noemi’s experience underscores the program’s role in inspiring change and facilitating career transitions. Several of her cohorts have leveraged the skills and networks gained through EMMIO to make significant career changes, often moving into new roles or organizations that better align with their professional goals and personal values.

Another highlight of the EMMIO program is the strong network of peers it fosters. The biennial reunions on a wide variety of topics provide ongoing opportunities for learning and collaboration. This network has been invaluable for Noemi, offering advice, support and opportunities for career advancement. “The networking opportunities are incredible. You’re constantly learning from your peers and instructors, which enhances your professional growth and broadens your perspective,” she shared.

When asked how she would describe her educational and professional journey to a potential EMMIO candidate, Noemi condensed the experience into three key concepts: Self-awareness, Principled Leadership and Building a Vision. “EMMIO provides you with access to a wealth of tools, knowledge and an invaluable network of peers,” she added. “It reinforces the importance of ethical leadership and helped me set clear professional targets and understand my purpose. This vision is crucial for transforming the lives of the people we serve and ensuring that our work has a lasting impact.”

The Executive Master in Management of International Organizations (EMMIO) at SDA Bocconi is a part-time blended program that successfully prepares students to tackle the biggest managerial challenges of modern international organizations, compacting a fully-fledged executive master program into a nine-month educational path, compatible with full-time employment.

SDA Bocconi School of Management

Photogallery

 

Photo Credit @UNFPA Cameroon / Kelly Mambou