Considering a humanitarian career? Hear from Βι¶ΉΣ³» and IDS alumni working in the field
Posted on behalf of: Communications
Last updated: Monday, 19 August 2024
Βι¶ΉΣ³» alum Arianna Calza Bini
Ever wondered what it takes to do life-saving work with people affected by disaster and conflict?
This we asked some of our brilliant alumni who are now working all over the world to share some insights for prospective humanitarians.
We had a huge response – with words of encouragement coming in from United Nations leaders, non-governmental organisation founders and remarkable people working on everything from removing landmines to helping displaced refugees.
Read their advice and learn what they studied with us below:
“Get to frontline operations as soon as you can and get stuck in where it matters and where you will learn. Humanitarian work is at its most meaningful, rewarding, and valuable when you are working shoulder to shoulder with local responders. Chase that dream!”
James Belgrave, Spokesperson and Communications Officer, UN World Food Programme
Development Studies MA, 2010
“Be well-prepared and curious. Embrace diversity. Keep work/life balance and always take care of yourself. Create strong connections and innovate ways of working towards more inclusive, participatory and localised approaches that ensure agency for the people you are trying to support.”
Arianna Calza Bini, Head of Inclusive Risk Reduction at Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining
Development Studies MPhil, 1996
“Anyone can be a humanitarian. It begins with a profound belief in the goodness of humanity and the power that lies in the dignity and worth of all human beings no matter where they come from, what they look like, or what they believe in. That must be the engine that drives you. There will be challenges along the way but it’s your passion that will give you the endurance and resilience to keep going.”
Abigail Noko, Regional Representative for Southern Africa, UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
International Relations and Development Studies BA, 1996
“Humanitarian work does not always pay well, and many times requires you to leave your comfort zone, but you may find your purpose in life, which is invaluable. Becoming a volunteer is the best way to learn about the different roles at play, build experience, develop networks, and, most importantly, contribute meaningfully to people in need! Start volunteering as early as possible and see how opportunities unfold before you.”
Nova Silitonga, Deputy Executive Director, Southeast and East Asian Centre
International Development PhD, 2024
“I have tried to imbue in people and colleagues the values of distance and of kindness to people who are not acting either way. It’s the business of empathy and listening, but it’s doing so with a certain amount of dispassion so that it doesn’t become about you.”
Martin Griffiths, Former UN Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator
Philosophy and Religion BA, 1972
“Pursuing a career in the humanitarian sector is noble and fulfilling, but it's crucial to identify your unique niche based on your competencies and strengths. Reflect on whether you're best suited for fundraising, research, advocacy, emergency relief/response, consulting, media, or communication roles. Continuously seek learning and growth opportunities to enhance your skills and stay adaptable in this ever-evolving field. Your dedication and specialised expertise can drive meaningful change and inspire others in the global humanitarian community.”
Tunde Alabi-Hundeyin II, Media 4 Development Professional
Creative and Critical Practice PhD, 2023
"Humanitarian crises are rising but the space for civil societies to intervene is shrinking globally for a variety of reasons. The climate change and pandemics, compounded with inequality, is the biggest humanitarian crisis and I think young people are the only hope and guiding light in bringing the desired shift in the system, and not conforming to our current ways of doing things."
Deepti Ameta, Consultant in women’s economic empowerment, India
Globalisation and Development MA, 2014
“Start your career in the field, where you can learn and grow the most. Your career trajectory will not necessarily be linear. Embrace the uncertainties, allow yourself to try different things and make mistakes, and always reconnect with the purpose of joining this sector”
Beryl Lo, UN World Food Programme Myanmar Country Office, Reports Officer
Development Studies MA, 2019
"The world is inherently unpredictable. Try to stay curious, keep asking questions, reading and exposing yourself to new ideas, discussions and books. Remember to listen, (truly listen, not to wait for the person to simply finish their sentence) and don’t forget to check who’s in the room, who is missing and who isn’t talking when doing humanitarian work. You are much more likely to find a solution and come up with something brilliant if you learn to value and work with everyone."
Jodie Le Marrec Founder of Malawi and Cambodia-based NGO, Embrace Ability
Global Political Economy MA, 2013
“A career in the humanitarian sector is a calling that is deeply fulfilling yet immensely challenging. You will encounter some of the most vulnerable members of the community who will rely entirely on you for assistance, so be prepared to give your all.”
Annah Macharia, Former Protection Officer, Danish Refugee council, Kenya
Gender and Development MA, 2016
“Be the way you are and never let the inside human die. Just keep your good feelings alive in every situation”
Amit Choubey, Founder and CEO of SANMAT, an Indian NGO focused on health and education
Governance and Development MA, 2010
“While skills sure are desirable, what really makes a world of difference is empathy and a willingness to listen in. Something which demonstrates to the person in need that we care!”
Sudarshan Suchi, CEO of Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children, India)
Participation, Power and Social Change MA, 2018
“A career in the humanitarian sector is extremely rewarding. Working on some of the planet's greatest challenges and looking to long term positive change. As you work with colleagues around the world I would really recommend learning a second (or third) language. Being able to effectively communicate with people in their own language helps to break down barriers and address negative power dynamics.”
Colin Rogers, Chief Executive of MapAction
Ecology and Conservation BSc, 1993
Βι¶ΉΣ³» supports and educates people to be change-makers, and all around the world you’ll find Βι¶ΉΣ³» alumni, like those listed above, making a difference to the lives of others.
Our thanks go to all the participants for their candid contributions. You can see them at work in this :
Marking the anniversary of the bomb attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad on 19 August 2003, World Humanitarian Day recognises the commitment of humanitarians around the world who stand shoulder to shoulder with people in need and deliver life-saving assistance.
The Βι¶ΉΣ³», in partnership with the Institute for Development Studies, has been ranked first in the world for Development Studies in the QS World University Rankings for eight consecutive years. Explore our courses in Development.