From Uncertainty to Impact: Malakhone’s M&E Journey

Author: Phakhinda Khanthavilay

Founder and lead trainer of Purple Tulip Development

At Purple Tulip Development, we believe that when professionals invest in their growth, they unlock new levels of impact—not just for themselves, but for the communities they serve.

Malakhone practiced interviewing skills in the classroom.

One such inspiring journey is that of Ms. Malakhone Sonethavong, a dedicated development professional working with a UN agency in Laos. In September 2024, Malakhone joined our Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Series with limited experience in M&E. She was leading a project, but the concept of the logframe felt confusing and distant. She wasn’t sure how to use it or why it mattered.

That changed quickly.

From the very beginning, Malakhone showed remarkable curiosity and commitment. She engaged deeply in every session, asked thoughtful questions, and actively applied the lessons to her real work. As she progressed through the modules—especially the one on Data Collection and Monitoring Tools—her confidence grew. She began designing her own monitoring tools and truly understanding the value behind them.

Malakhone was working on the logframe (group activity) with other peers

By March 2025, just six months after joining the course, Malakhone reached out with incredible news:

She had been selected as the new Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting Officer at FAO.

She shared that the interview was challenging, but the skills she gained from the M&E Series made all the difference.

"If I did not learn from you, I wouldn't be able to pass the interview. The interview questions were very specific—they asked me to design a logframe and the indicators of a program plan." – Malakhone Sonethavong

Her decision to invest her time, energy, and money into her own development had paid off.

Before the training, she told us she often relied on others’ logframes and mostly focused on completing project activities. But now, she understands the full picture. She knows how to design a project using analytical tools, think critically about the change she wants to create, and build a solid framework to monitor impact—because she finally sees why we do what we do, for whom, and to what end.

As her trainer, I couldn’t be prouder. I witnessed her passion, energy, and determination every step of the way. At Purple Tulip Development, we are honored to be part of her journey—and thrilled to see her step confidently into a new chapter of her professional life.

Inspired by Malakhone’s Story?

You could be next. Whether you're just starting out in Monitoring & Evaluation or looking to strengthen your skills, our M&E Series is designed to give you the practical tools, confidence, and mindset to lead with clarity and impact.

👉 Learn more about our upcoming M&E courses and how you can join a community of passionate professionals creating real change.

🔗 Explore the M&E Series Programs
📧 Have questions? Reach out to us at info@purpletulipdevs.com

At Purple Tulip Development, we're here to support your journey—every step of the way.