“The grounds in project management are not level, especially for women—but with the right skills, attitude, and courage, we can stand out and thrive.”
Susan Ninsiima is a Certified Project Manager (PMP®) and Social Scientist working at the intersection of health research and community development. With years of hands-on experience in implementing, evaluating, and coordinating community health and HIV/AIDS research projects, Susan has learned to apply project management principles to achieve impactful, efficient, and community-driven outcomes.
Explore Susan’s Educational and Career Journey
Susan’s career began in the field of social sciences, where she actively contributed to community programs and research initiatives. As she advanced, she recognized that her work was deeply project-based, requiring coordination, timelines, and measurable goals.
“I am a Certified Project Manager (PMP®), Certified in Monitoring and Evaluation, and a Social Scientist with over 10 years of experience in health research and community development work.”
With the growing scale and complexity of her projects, Susan pursued certifications to sharpen her skills in managing research operations, evaluating outcomes, and aligning project objectives with community health goals. Her commitment to lifelong learning enabled her to navigate a wide range of responsibilities—from data collection and research ethics to coordinating national and global health partnerships.
What Inspired Her to Pursue Project Management?
Susan’s motivation came from a desire to professionalize her skillset and elevate her career. “I was inspired to advance my career in project management when I realized most of the work I was doing involved managing people, tasks, and resources. I wanted to do it the right way—with structure and accountability’’, she explains.
Seeing project management as a professional discipline that could maximize her impact, she decided to formalize her knowledge through PMP® certification.
For Susan, earning her PMP® was about joining the global league of professionals who deliver excellence. She shares,”I wanted to join the world of professionals who make things happen and solve problems through structured management. PMP® was a natural next step to gain credibility and learn best practices.”
The Certification Journey: Challenges and Breakthroughs
Balancing her demanding job, family responsibilities and study was no easy task.
“Adult education is not easy at all. I started and stopped several times. But I was determined. I created a study schedule, joined discussion groups, and stayed focused on the goal.”
Her journey was marked by resilience, perseverance, and discipline, showing that success in project management begins with strong personal leadership.
Where the PMP Certification made all the difference
After earning her PMP®, Susan felt more empowered and purposeful.
“After my certification, I was so determined to apply the knowledge I had gained. I took on a new project and was able to develop a solid project charter, detailed work plans, stakeholder engagement strategies, and monitoring frameworks. It felt different—more strategic and impactful.”
This transformation enabled her to lead with clarity, confidence, and structure, delivering higher-quality outcomes.
How Certification Transformed Her Work
“The PMP Certification has helped me do my work differently. I now focus on clarity, measurable outcomes, and defined responsibilities. My leadership is more structured, and my team trusts my direction.”
Susan says, her PMP® knowledge has become a daily compass in managing project scope, risks, communications, and stakeholder expectations.
Challenges and Gender Biases in Project Management
While Susan has had the benefit of working in a supportive institution, she acknowledges that many women face invisible hurdles.
“I am lucky to work with an institution that is supportive. But I know the grounds are not always level for women in leadership. We are often expected to prove ourselves more and juggle more roles.”
Her advice? Stay firm, stay smart, and let your work speak volumes.
Lessons and Advice to Women in Project Management
“One lesson I have learned is that project management is not just about completing tasks. It’s about results—clear, measurable, and impactful outcomes.”
To other women aspiring to excel in project management, she shares:
“The grounds are not level, but with the right skills, the right attitude, and courage, women can thrive in project management. Know your value and own your space.”
About HER STORY
The HER STORY initiative by HEBO highlights the incredible journeys of women breaking barriers in project management. Each of these certified professionals has leveraged PMI certification to elevate their careers, proving that structured knowledge, resilience, and leadership can drive success across industries.
Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate, inspire, and empower more women in project management! 🚀 #IWD2025 #WomenInProjectManagement
