When Adriana Romo Somolinos walks into the office of the United Nations Global Service Centre (UNGSC) in Valencia, she’s not just crunching numbers — she’s building the digital infrastructure that powers the UN peacekeeping and other operations across the globe.
We caught up with Adriana to mark International Girls in ICT Day 2025, a celebration that encourages girls and young women to explore careers in information and communication technology (ICT). This year’s theme – Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation – reflects the urgent need for diverse voices and perspectives in building a fairer digital future. Adriana’s story exemplifies how ICT can drive inclusive and sustainable transformation when guided by purpose and empathy.
Funded by Spain, this 28-year-old Junior Professional Officer (JPO) is already making her mark as a Data Engineer of the Client Solutions Delivery Section (CSDS). Adriana thrives in a team of passionate specialists that design, analyze, implement, and manage geospatial databases to support the UN work worldwide in monitoring water and energy consumption in real time, organizing and visualizing data on camp infrastructure, conducting consistent data analysis, using high-resolution satellite imagery for missions operating in conflict zones or inaccessible areas, and more.
“What I enjoy most about my work is that every day brings a new challenge. I love using my knowledge and technical skills to solve problems that have a real impact. For instance, the work we do to monitor water and energy consumption for better preparedness”, said Adriana.
Her path into ICT wasn’t always straight. Her journey started with a deep-rooted love for numbers and a relentless curiosity:
“So, choosing to study Mathematical Engineering at university felt like the right fit. During my studies, I discovered a passion for coding and decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Computational Engineering and Mathematics. That ‘aha’ moment after solving complex problems is what drives me.”
Instead of heading into corporate tech, Adriana followed a deeper calling after graduation.
“I spent two years working in refugee camps in Greece with a grassroots NGO,” she recalled.
“It gave me a sense of purpose and reinforced my desire to use my skills for something meaningful.”
She later worked as a Data Analyst for an international NGO in Spain before joining the UNGSC.
“My current role beautifully combines my passions: data and technology, and contributing to peacekeeping and other UN operations. This role has provided me with the opportunity to learn from my team, strengthen my expertise, and grow as a young leader within the tech sector.”
Adriana believes ICT is at the core of digital transformation, and on Girls in ICT Day, we could not emphasize its importance more.
“ICT powers everything from decision-making tools to systems that deliver real-world programmes more efficiently. Without ICT education and expertise, we can’t build inclusive and sustainable infrastructure or solutions. Investing in it empowers people to shape the future.”
She is a passionate advocate for greater gender equity in tech — a field still shaped by gender stereotypes and underrepresentation of women.
“For decades, girls were told — directly or indirectly — that we weren’t meant for technical fields. But that narrative is simply not true. Women are equally capable and brilliant in STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.”
“The more women we see thriving in tech, the closer we get to real equality and diversity – and that benefits everyone.”
Adriana’s message to girls?
“Follow your curiosity, trust your abilities, and don’t let anyone tell you what you should or shouldn’t be interested in. It’s okay to be scared — confidence comes with time, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.”
She advises girls and young women to surround themselves with people who support them: “Seek mentors, ask questions, and don’t give up.”
“The world needs our voice, ideas, and talent in tech”, says Adriana.
Note to readers:
At UNGSC, we regularly host Junior Professional Officers (JPOs) sponsored by Member States through the UN JPO Programme. We are grateful to Spain for funding Adriana’s Data Engineer role and supporting UNGSC in delivering its critical work in peacekeeping, special political missions, and other operations worldwide.
Learn more about our partners: United Nations Global Service Centre | Our Partners
