Volunteer of the Month- Rupali Rao

Motivation to Volunteer:

Volunteering with PMI has been an incredibly enriching journey, immersing me in a dynamic community that thrives on continuous learning. Throughout my tenure as a volunteer, I’ve been honored to connect with a multitude of industry experts through engaging in-person sessions and immersive virtual seminars.

Takeaway as a Volunteer:

The essence of being a PMI volunteer lies in the invaluable chance for personal and professional growth while making meaningful contributions to the project management community. Through volunteering, I actively connected with both local and global professionals, fostering a profound sense of belonging and shared aspirations within the community.

Accomplishments as a Volunteer:

For four years, I dedicated myself to the Marketing team, eventually assuming the role of AVP. Throughout my tenure, I played a pivotal role in driving various marketing initiatives, crafting impactful collaterals that significantly boosted the visibility of our chapter programs. Transitioning two years ago, I became an integral part of the Pune Women’s League as a founding core committee member. Since its inception, I’ve actively contributed by spearheading diverse activities, from curating marketing materials for monthly seminars to orchestrating four successful events. Embracing the role of event owner has provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal and volunteer growth.

Challenges Faced:

Despite time constraints, my journey with both the PMI Pune chapter and the PWL team has been remarkably smooth and enriching. The teams have consistently shown an unwavering level of support, cultivating a collaborative environment where fellow members readily offer assistance and guidance. This supportive culture not only helps navigate challenges but also fosters a shared dedication to achieving success together.

Skills and Strengths Utilized:

In my professional trajectory, I’ve immersed myself in the realms of art and design, previously serving as an art director and presently channeling my skills into UI/UX design. Alongside this creative path, I carry a persistent drive and authentic enthusiasm for delving into the intricacies of project management. I see its relevance as pervasive, much like how life itself can be viewed as an intricate project with its various facets and dynamics.

Managing priorities:

I manage my priorities by initially pinpointing and sorting tasks based on their urgency, ensuring the most pressing matters take precedence. Implementing project management tools and techniques is pivotal in this approach. I rely on strategies like crafting detailed checklists, optimizing time usage, and embracing agility—this flexibility and swift responsiveness are essential components of my workflow.

Other Volunteer Experience:

For the past two years, I’ve dedicated my time to volunteering within my organization, actively involved in facilitating various learning programs.

Knowledge of the Organization:

PMI holds a pivotal role in elevating the standards and practices of project management. It achieves this by providing a rich array of resources, sought-after certifications, and fostering a supportive community tailored for professionals at different stages of their careers.

Discovery of the Program:

I was introduced to this program back in 2016 by a colleague, and since then, I’ve been deeply engaged and actively volunteering within it.