A Journey of Growth: My Time at Somali Public Agenda (SPA)

 

This reflection blog marks the conclusion of my professional journey at SPA, spanning four years and seven months of growth, learning, and responsibility. During this time, I progressed through various roles, developed practical and technical skills, and contributed to procurement, logistics, and organizational operations across multiple projects and events. This reflection is not only a summary of my professional development but also an expression of gratitude for the experiences, leadership, teamwork, and supportive environment that shaped me both personally and professionally.

Although I wrote a reflection on my third anniversary, this feels like my final farewell blog—marking the culmination of a long and rewarding journey at SPA. My time here was defined by continuous learning, growth, and increasing responsibility. During this period, I completed six professional courses and developed more than six key skills, including camera shooting, which I practiced consistently over a long period.

The courses I completed included Procurement Management, Human Resource Management, QuickBooks Online (Beginner), Blog Training, Film & TV Production, and Product Marketing.

During this period, I also attended several workshops, including Understanding Finance & Procurement (held by RVI in Garowe), Fire Drill Training, Time Management, First Aid Training, Security Training, and Internet Cybersecurity.

In early 2024, I was promoted to Procurement & Logistics Officer, a role that brought me closer to the field I studied. I was extremely happy and strongly believed I was the right person for the role. The position gave me a deep sense of professional fulfilment and enjoyment.

During my time at SPA, I organized and supported more than 200 different events, which provided valuable networking experience and helped me build strong professional relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, partners, and institutions. I also negotiated and managed procurement with over 30 vendors, coordinating services such as hotels, agencies, audit firms, electronic suppliers, design companies, radio stations, and other service providers at local and district levels.

One of the greatest benefits I gained from working in procurement was the opportunity to develop a broad and strong professional network, as procurement is a far-reaching function. I reached a point where people often referred to me as “Qamar Procurement,” as my name was among the first mentioned whenever procurement was discussed. When asked about my field of study, I confidently replied, “I studied procurement.”

From October 2025 to January 2026, my role was further upgraded to Procurement & Logistics Manager. This position was highly demanding and came with significant responsibilities. During this period, I worked on multiple projects, the largest being an EU-funded project.

I established and managed professional working relationships across different regions, coordinating and facilitating agreements at regional levels. I was also actively involved in negotiating and managing contracts with various organizations, including EU audit firms, internal and external auditors, agencies, hotels, and other service providers.  This role carried a high level of responsibility, as it involved entering into contracts with large companies. All companies were required to go through a formal recruitment and selection process, with opportunities advertised transparently through SomaliJobs.

One of the unique aspects of SPA that I deeply appreciated was the strong culture of individual accountability. Each person was fully responsible for their own duties, with performance primarily assessed based on deadlines. This approach encouraged ownership, independence, and professionalism without relying on others. In addition, weekly meetings were held to monitor workload distribution, identify staff under pressure, and track overall progress. The team culture was highly supportive—whenever someone faced a heavy workload, others willingly stepped in to help. There was no hostility or conflict.

We also truly felt at home. Every morning, refreshments such as tea, water, and dates were provided at our desks, and lunch was provided every weekday. This created a warm, comfortable, and motivating work environment where everyone felt valued.

I would also like to commend the SPA team for the well-organized staff dinner arrangements, where we gathered every three months at a restaurant. These occasions allowed us to enjoy a pleasant atmosphere together, share meaningful conversations, and exchange light-hearted jokes and laughter. I will truly miss all of those moments.

We worked together like siblings or close friends gathered in one place, which I strongly believe reflects the effective and supportive leadership of both Directors. Another defining strength of SPA was the absence of micromanagement. Staff were trusted to manage their responsibilities professionally and were held accountable for delivering results accurately and on time.

First and foremost, I give thanks to Allah, who shaped me into the person I am today and guided me toward meaningful opportunities. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the SPA Director, Mahad Wasuge, and the Deputy Director, Farhan Isak, who gave me the opportunity to gain practical and meaningful experience. They were not only directors, but also role models, leaders, and motivators. I can confidently say they are among the best leaders I have worked with.

I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to the entire team with whom I shared many memorable moments. In particular, I thank Farhia, who was not only a colleague but also a close friend and like a sister. She often sensed when my workload was heavy and encouraged me to take time to relax and enjoy moments outside of work.

I will also never forget Idil, who consistently motivated me to take on challenging responsibilities. She is an exceptional person, and I am grateful to have her as a friend. I also thank Sadia, with whom I shared both difficult and joyful moments. I also want to sincerely thank Fuad for always being by my side and for the tremendous work he has done alongside me. His support and dedication were a key reason I am a fully qualified Procurement Manager today.

Finally, I would like to thank the rest of the team without exception: Hafsa Abdirahman, Ibrahim Jibril, Mohamed Adam, Aweis, Ruweyda, Abukar, Ibrahim, as well as all the interns who passed through SPA—whom I had the privilege of supporting as a Trainer in the Procurement & Logistics Department.

Qamar Sh. Osman