A Journey of Service: Reflections of a Retiree from IOM after 24 Years

In the corridors of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ghana, amidst the hum and the ebb and flow of activities, there is a figure whose presence has left an indelible mark on the organization as the first ever IOM Ghana retiree– Ms. Patricia Elsie Aikins, popularly known as “Mama P”. After 24 years of dedicated service, Mama P bids farewell to IOM at age 65, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, professionalism, and unwavering dedication.

Ms. Aikins' journey with IOM began in June 2000 when she joined as an Operations Assistant. In this role, she quickly established herself as a reliable and efficient member of the team, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and superiors alike. Over the years, she took on increasingly challenging roles, serving as an Account Personnel Assistant, Admin Assistant at the Medical Department, now the Migration Health Assessment Center (MHAC), as well as Procurement and Logistics Assistant, before assuming the position of Admin and Finance Assistant under treasury in the Resource Management Unit.

Reflecting on her journey with IOM, Mama P remarks: "I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow and develop professionally and personally within the organization. Each role has presented its own challenges and rewards, and I am proud of the contributions I have made along the way."

As she transitions into retirement, Ms. Aikins looks back at her time with IOM with fondness and gratitude. "IOM has been more than just a workplace for me – it has been a second family," she says. "I will miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes with working alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals."

Throughout her tenure, Mama P has been a steadfast advocate for the values and principles of IOM, embodying the organization's commitment to humanitarian service and migrant welfare. "I have always believed in the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect, no matter one’s background," she emphasizes. "It has been a privilege to play a role in supporting migrants in their journey towards a better life through my work."

As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, Ms. Aikins is filled with optimism and excitement for the future. "Retirement may mark the end of one chapter, but it is also the beginning of a new adventure," she reflects. "I look forward to spending more time with my family and pursuing personal interests and hobbies."

As colleagues gather to bid farewell to Mama P, they express their gratitude for her years of service and the impact she has had on the organization. "Mama P’s dedication and professionalism has been an inspiration to us all, as she is very principled and meticulous in her work," remarks IOM Ghana’s National HR Officer, Ms. Cynthia Mensah. "Her presence will be sorely missed. She has left a big shoe to fit, but her legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come," said Senior Finance Assistant, Mr. Samuel Baah.

In her parting message, Mama P offers words of encouragement and wisdom to her colleagues: "Continue to uphold the values of integrity, compassion, and excellence that define IOM. IOM is full of rules, regulations, and procedures; if you follow them, you will have no issues," she urges. "Together, we have the power to make a difference in the lives of migrants and their communities around the world.”

As Ms. Aikins takes her final steps out of the doors of IOM, she leaves behind a legacy of service. Her journey may have come to an end at IOM and IOM Ghana, but her impact will be felt for generations to come.