Kathy Mangones – 1954-2014

Sheelagh Kathy Mangones (Kathy) passed away on the 4th February in Nairobi, Kenya. She was a much valued and loved member of the UN Women family.

She took charge of UNIFEM’s/UN Women’s work in Haiti in 2007, leading an office which remains today a reflection of her vision, commitment and professionalism. This was never more evident than in the immediate aftermath of the Haiti earthquake in 2010. Despite personal risk and her own losses of friends and colleagues, Kathy took to the streets to search and assist the injured. She located her staff and went out of her way to reassure colleagues outside of Haiti that her team was safe. Her thoughts were not for herself, but instead for how she could support her colleagues and the country she had made her home. Because of her extensive knowledge of the gender and development issues, she was able to ensure that the post-disaster response was informed by an appreciation of the specific needs of women and their families.

Aside from the earthquake, Kathy’s leadership in Haiti also led to real change for women and girls in areas including political participation and decision making and sexual and gender based violence. The ongoing strengthening and expansion of support services to this day are yet another part of her legacy.

At the end of 2012, Kathy became UN Women’s representative in Liberia. While her time in that country was sadly cut short, even in the months she spent there she quickly became a valued and beloved member of the UN Country Team, as demonstrated by her often being entrusted with the role of acting Resident Coordinator. Even beyond Africa, Kathy willingly took on regional assignments, delivering always with great professionalism. Her passion was a source of inspiration for her team and for UN Women’s partners more widely.

Kathy was at heart an advocate, speaking consistently over her life time for social justice, equality and peace.

Kathy leaves behind her son Mateo, as well as her brother John and cousin Vicki.