Meet Senya Augustino, Deputy Team Leader for G4S’s Ordnance Management business in South Sudan

Senya's Ordnance Management Journey

Senya's G4S Career Begins

Senya Augustino completed her Level 3 International Mine Action Standards training in 2011, the same year South Sudan gained independence. After working with other organisations in South Sudan, she joined G4S in 2020 as a deminer within the Multi-Tasking Team (MTT) project, a commercial demining contract. Her initial role involved clearing unexploded ordnance as part of a team tasked by the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS). Early challenges included working in extreme environmental conditions, constantly vigilant for dangerous wildlife while searching for unexploded ordnance. Senya quickly demonstrated a flair for planning and managing small teams within the MTT project. Her early career goals focused on contributing to the clearance of unexploded ordnance and making a positive impact in her community. She embraced the challenging work and adapted to the demands of a commercial demining environment. Her initial projects involved clearing ordnance in various locations across South Sudan, contributing to the safety and security of the country. The G4S project management team provided support and guidance, fostering her growth within the company.

Leading Ordnance Disposal Team

Senya's dedication and skills led to her promotion to Deputy Team Leader in 2023 when G4S again won the MTT contract. She now manages half an MTT team, including five male deminers, a community liaison officer, three drivers, and a medic. This promotion represents a significant career advancement, particularly within South Sudan's patriarchal culture. She has developed new skills, including using software applications, managing equipment, and writing reports. Her responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, making critical decisions regarding ordnance disposal, and managing her team in the field. Senya has also developed valuable soft management skills, such as handling compassionate cases and resolving disputes with landowners. She acknowledges the ongoing challenges, including dealing with thieves and disruptive locals. Her future aspirations include continuing to contribute to the clearance of unexploded ordnance and supporting the development of South Sudan. She is optimistic about the future and believes education is key to the country's progress. Her G4S salary supports her five children's education in Uganda.

I had some schooling, I can read and write, but didn’t think I would be doing daily reports like now. I manage half an MTT team of five male deminers, one community liaison officer, three drivers and a medic, and I have to use a laptop computer! And I manage the team in the field searching for ordnance.

Senya Jane Augustino
Deputy Team Leader, G4S Ordnance Management