Black History Month Spotlight: Rama Balde, Nonproliferation

How do you support NNSA? 

I am a country manager within the Office of International Nuclear Security. Our mission is focused on preventing theft and sabotage of nuclear materials in facilities worldwide. We do this by developing innovative tools and programs that we carry out in partner countries to reduce the risk of nuclear terrorism.

What is your personal background, and how has that shaped you and your approach to your career? 

My cultural background is Guinean, I was born in Conakry and spent the better part of my childhood there. I immigrated to the U.S. with my family and attended high school in Queens, N.Y. Coming of age in the epicenter of a metropolis with vibrant cultures made me a globally minded individual and enriched me with grit, curiosity, and openness. This has also shaped and benefited my career in so many ways. For example, I'm zealously prepared when working with our international partners. My personal background has equipped me with the skills needed to manage both the technical and the cultural aspects of the job.

What did you study in school and how did it impact you personally and professionally?

I studied international relations for my undergraduate and majored in public administration for my graduate studies. My personal background informed my bachelor's degree as I wanted to contextualize the world in order to further grasp the intersectionality between nation states, foreign policy, and multinationals. My choice for a graduate degree seemed tactical at the time because I wanted to gain applicable skills and join public service. 

What led you to a career in nuclear security?

I learned about NNSA and its mission in nuclear security and nonproliferation through the larger DOE complex. I was an operations manager in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy supporting the solar program. While there, I learned of the opportunities and challenges in the renewable space. I became aware of the significant demand for clean energy, and that coupled with current world conflicts inspired me to join NNSA to leverage my expertise and contribute to the innovation of the nuclear security regime.

What is the best part about your job?

There are many, but I particularly like working with our international partners. I am also fascinated by the scientific innovation and expertise that I'm exposed to. This exposure allows me to learn something new every day. Importantly, it's satisfying to know my work and the work of our experts at the national labs are contributing to the reduction of the non-peaceful uses of nuclear material, thus, reducing the risk of nuclear theft and sabotage.

What is your proudest accomplishment while working at NNSA?

My proudest accomplishment was when the NNSA and our Chilean counterparts signed a memorandum of understanding at the 67th International Atomic Energy Agency’s General Conference. Leading this effort from Washington and managing all aspects related to  my office equities is my greatest accomplishment thus far.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I’m a mother to an amazing 15-year-old. In my free time I teach yoga. I speak French and Fulani.

Who is someone that inspires you and why?

I’m inspired by wartime leaders such as Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower and nationalists such as Mahatma Gandhi. Both leaders possessed character strength I seek to embody; they also help me unify my western and eastern ethos.

How do you plan to celebrate/commemorate Black History Month?

I celebrate Black History Month by paying homage to ancestors, whose shoulders I stand on. From the height of their shoulders, I seek to find sight, fortitude, and understanding. During this month, I draw inspiration from Martin Luther King Jr. and Gen. Colin Powell. I also read works from black writers like Maya Angelou and Alice Walker.