What We’re Grateful for in 2023: Part 2

While this year has been challenging in many ways, there’s also been much to be grateful for. Hear from TechnoServe staff as they share what they’re most thankful for this year, then share your gratitude reflections with us on social media.

Graphic of staff reflections on being grateful.

TechnoServe’s work fighting poverty around the world wouldn’t be possible without its talented, dedicated staff, grateful that the work they do brings them meaning every day. We employ more than 1,200 people, 90% of whom are from the country where they work. Our staff combine business expertise with local knowledge, context, and relationship building to help hardworking men and women generate income, jobs, and wealth for their families and communities.

As we approach the end of 2023, we asked TechnoServe staff to share what they’re personally and professionally grateful for this year. Read a few of their responses below, then share with us what you’re thankful for by tagging @TechnoServe on social media. 

Photo of TechnoServe's HR team in Cape Town.. Part of the 2023 TechnoServe staff reflections on being grateful.
HR Team Dinner in Cape Town, South Africa

I’m grateful for the opportunity to travel to Cape Town for our HR Retreat! Having a global HR team means we aren’t always able to come together. I’m grateful for spending time with the team reflecting on our accomplishments, strategizing for 2024, and enjoying each other’s company. Personally, I’m grateful for getting to watch my kids grow and do what they love. It’s so joyful to witness them experiencing their passions and talents.” – Rachel B., Recruiting Director

Headshot of TechnoServe staff.

I’m grateful for having finished my Bachelor of Business Administration, and that I’m currently studying for my MBA thanks to the support of my family, friends, and colleagues at TechnoServe Guatemala.” – Luis M., Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Specialist 

Photo of TechnoServe staff working from home.
Working from home with Pudding.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to travel to our Côte d’Ivoire office and work and build relationships with our team there. I also adopted a second kitten!” – Paige H., Business Development Specialist

Part of the 2023 TechnoServe staff reflections on being grateful.
My son Nicolás.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to see the fruits of my contributions with the farmer groups we advise. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work for an organization that values my work and allows me to continue growing. I’m thankful for the birth of my first baby, Nicolás, in 2023, and the purchase of our first little house. ♥ I’m also thankful for the well-being of my whole family.” – Lesly S., Business Advisor 

Photo of a landscape with trees and shrubs/

I’m grateful for my colleagues and nature.” – Renata S., Senior Program Advisor

Photo of TechnoServe staff and their family. Part of the staff reflections on being grateful.
Family!

I’m grateful to be in good health to be able to perform each of the activities entrusted to me. I’m also grateful for my health, my family, and to have a job to cover my needs.” – Yojana P., Farmer Trainer, Guatemala

Read the first installment in the series.