Rizwan Oskoui: Virtually Delivering on Multiple Fronts

I work on one of the few MPS contracts that has always been fully remote, so I’ve had an established workspace for a while. You’d think adjusting to the new Covid-normal would be easy.  However, it’s been an adventure as our client worked hard to expand their technological capabilities to support a fully remote workforce and meet telehealth needs. We’re all accustomed to online meetings and interacting via chat, but things get fun when you’re facilitating a meeting…and the network drops the connection.  Needless to say, our sense of humor has vastly improved. 

One of the great things about working for MPS is they truly believe in professional development. I am thrilled to be a member of the first Execution Management Service (EMS) cohort. This program focuses on growing our leadership and consulting skill set. Since one of the program requirements is a professional certification, I am currently studying for the PMP® certification exam. 

I spend most evenings focused on my role as Volunteer Management Director with the nonprofit, Project Management for Change. MPS has regularly supported our annual Project Management Day of Service, including the pro-bono work I have been doing for PM4Change for the past two years. The DC 21 event staff is currently working hard to shift the event into a virtual space, while maintaining the same level of support and dedication to our nonprofit attendees and project management volunteers. 

Balancing all this work means I’m frequently surrounded by three screens for two computers – wrapping up one set of work while listening to my staff work through a new event concern. My ever-growing social circle meets twice a week to craft, color, doodle, and simply chat. Most of us have never met in person, but we discover things that connect us, and this brings us joy.  With all this focus on staying socially distant, it’s more important than ever to find ways to support and engage our friends, family, and communities.  Stay safe, everyone!