Being an IIRSM Member – Ohipeni Prosper, Acting Health, Safety and Environment Lead, Infrarose

Ohipeni reflects on how joining IIRSM through the One Percent Safer Bursary has helped broaden his professional horizons, build valuable connections and progress to Member.

What is your current role?
I am currently an Acting HSE Lead with INFRAROSE, supporting the Kinshasa International Airport Expansion and Reconstruction Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

What made you decide to join IIRSM?
I wanted to become part of an internationally recognised professional community and further develop beyond my operational HSE responsibilities. Luckily for me, I joined IIRSM through the One Percent Safer Bursary, starting at the Affiliate level. I was looking for professional recognition, knowledge sharing, exposure to good industry practices and connections with other risk and safety professionals. What started as a bursary opportunity has become an important part of my professional journey. I have progressed from Affiliate Membership to full Member (MIIRSM), which I am very proud of.

I value the professional recognition, confidence and sense of belonging that come with being part of IIRSM. It has also connected me with a wider professional community where I can learn from different experiences and perspectives.

Has IIRSM helped you in your career in any particular way?
Receiving the One Percent Safer Bursary in 2025 was particularly meaningful because it supported my professional development and connected me with an internationally recognised professional institution. Progressing to Member has also been an important milestone and a reflection of my continued commitment to the risk and safety profession.

What does being part of a professional community mean to you?
To me, it means not developing your career in isolation. It provides opportunities to learn from others, share practical experiences, build professional connections and stay informed about developments within the profession.

What would you say to someone developing their career in risk and safety and considering IIRSM Membership?
I would encourage them to see professional membership as an investment in their long-term career, not simply another qualification or certification. The opportunity to learn, connect, gain professional recognition and grow alongside other professionals can be extremely valuable.

Complete the sentence: “Being an IIRSM Member means…”

Being an IIRSM Member means being part of a professional community committed to continuous learning, professional growth, making workplaces safer and advocating for sustainable practices within organisations.

Become an IIRSM Member today