Karolina Smilevska is an ICT Assistant, Software Development at the OSCE Mission to Skopje ( OSCE )

Can you share a bit about where you've worked before joining the OSCE and what your responsibilities were?

The first phase of my IT career started in 1997 as a Web Master at Internet Provider Company and learned the basics of web application development, hosting, and web maintenance. My work in this position sparked my enthusiasm for building and maintaining digital platforms while the industry was at a thrilling stage of growth. The internet existed as an emerging technology in 1997 which most people around the world had yet to encounter. My country had about 150 internet users during that time period. Creating web pages during this early stage helped build the initial internet society within our region.

In 2001 I joined E-Formation as an IT Consultant at their IT and Business Consulting firm. The development of the specialized software to enhance the existing system for Globus Banking Total Solution Software (Temenos) defined my key role in this complex project. I successfully managed the transfer of 700,000 accounts and balances from five separate legacy systems into one unified banking platform. Through this experience I developed expertise in comprehensive data migration and system integration while showing my capacity to provide essential solutions under demanding conditions.

During the period from 2003 to 2006 I worked as an Application Programmer at EUPOL Proxima. My responsibilities included designing data systems that were developed and maintained according to the mission's varied requirements and reporting needs. The experience enhanced my ability to create data-driven solutions within an international organizational context.

 

What’s your academic background, and how does it connect with the career you’ve built?

My educational path established a solid base for my information technology career. I earned my Bachelor of Science from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering & Information Technologies in Skopje where I developed core technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. I am currently enhancing my professional skills by studying for a Master of Intelligent Systems Engineering degree at the Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering in Skopje. My Master’s program established an academic structure for the system I developed which improves daily operations for mission members. The deployment of this system across the OSCE organization showcases how my academic research led to practical solutions.

My formal education gave me a strong foundation but I understand the IT industry constantly evolves and requires ongoing education. To ensure my skills remain up-to-date I take online job-specific courses and obtain specialized certifications. I earned ITIL 4 Foundation and Scrum Master certifications which help me perform my daily job functions more effectively while improving solution delivery capabilities.

 

Where are you based now, and what do you enjoy most about your current role at the OSCE?

Currently, I hold the position of an ICT Assistant in Software Development at the OSCE Mission to Skopje. My responsibilities include supervising electronic applications throughout the entire System Development Life Cycle in support of the Mission's varied activities. This gives me a great sense of accomplishment because I work with the newest technologies, platforms, and standards, ensuring that our systems are both advanced and efficient.

What I enjoy most about my position is the dynamic and collaborative nature of the work. My duties frequently require close collaboration with colleagues from other OSCE executive structures and the Secretariat. This creates a stimulating work atmosphere for motivation, brainstorming ideas, and exchanging of opinions. While working with people whose views and solutions to problems may differ from mine, I learn new aspects that challenge and amplify innovations.

I am particularly proud of a system we developed locally within the OSCE Mission to Skopje. Its usefulness and user-friendly interface led to its adoption by other missions. Last year trough collaborative work, we completed a significant project to standardize the system and achieve its acceptance as an official OSCE corporate product. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, demonstrating the impact of local innovation on a global scale.

 

What advice would you give to those thinking about a career in international civil service?

If you're drawn to a career in international civil service, here's my advice:

  • Connect with the Mission: Truly understand the organization's goals.
  • Get Hands-On: Internships or volunteering are gold, especially if you're starting out.
  • Build Your Soft Skills: Be honest, open, and ready to work with everyone. Communication and adapting are key.
  • Stay Persistent: It can take time, so don't give up.

Ultimately, bring your passion and be ready to learn. It's a rewarding path.