Discover Carmen Kibonge's Inspiring Journey in Finance at the IAEA

A Path Shaped by Passion and Support

Carmen Kibonge is the Unit Head of Accounting at the IAEA. Hailing from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, her journey is defined by a passion for numbers and a commitment to making a difference. Raised in a family that valued education for both girls and boys, she reflects on her privilege and the inspiration drawn from her mother, an HR manager who pursued higher education.

From Medicine to Mathematics

Initially aspiring to become a paediatrician, Kibonge's dream shifted after a challenging biology lesson. However, her love for mathematics persisted, inspiring her to pursue a degree in business administration with a focus on finance and accounting at the University of Vienna. Despite the challenges of learning German, her determination shone through.

Building International Experience

After earning her degree, Kibonge moved to France for her master’s and began her career as a financial auditor. Her desire to contribute meaningfully led her to the UN system, where she found her purpose as a programme and budget officer at the CTBTO. Joining the IAEA in 2009, she has since driven significant improvements in efficiency and transparency within the organization.

Balancing Professional and Personal Life

Kibonge emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and encourages young women, especially those from similar backgrounds, to persevere in their dreams. She shares insights on the diverse career opportunities at the IAEA that can help make a difference in the world.

Commitment to Gender Equality

The IAEA is dedicated to gender equality, supporting initiatives like the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme and the Lise Meitner Programme, which empower women in nuclear-related fields. For more information on these initiatives, visit the IAEA's gender equality page.