"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
"Anybody 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 into humanitarian work. There will challenges along the way but its your passion that will give you the endurance and resilience to keep going. We need more humanitarians in this world, not less."
Abigail Noko, Regional Representative for Southern Africa, United Nations 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, it requires you to leave your comfort zone, but you may find your purpose in life, which is invaluable. To get into humanitarian work, 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 beforega, Deputy Executive Director"
Nova Silitonga, Deputy Executive Director, Southeast and East Asian Centre
International Development PhD, 2024
"Pursuing a career in the humanitarian and development sector is noble and fulfilling, but it's crucial to identify your unique niche based on your core 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 for Development (M4D) Professional
Creative and Critical Practice PhD, 2023
"Start your career in the field, where you can learn and grow the most. Your career trajectory will not be necessarily 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, Reports Officer, UN World Food Programme Myanmar Country Office
Development Studies MA, 2019
"The world is unpredictable and inherently unpredictable. Try to stay curious, keep asking questions, reading and exposing yourself to new ideas, discussions and books. Always 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 working in the humanitarian sector. 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
"Get to the 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 to alleviate needs. Chase that dream!"
James Belgrave, Spokesperson and Communications Officer, UN World Food Programme
Development Studies MA, 2010
"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 in Kenya
Gender and Development MA, 2016
"While skills sure are desirable, but what really makes a world of difference is empathy and a willingness to listen in – something which demonstrate to the person in need that we care!"
Sudarshan Suchi, CEO, Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children India)
Participation, Power and Social Change MA, 2018
"Be well-prepared and curious; embrace diversity; keep work/life balance and always take care of yourself; create strong connections; innovate the 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, Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining
Development Studies MPhil, 1996
"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 is so important. It helps to break down barriers and address negative power dynamics."
Colin Rogers, Chief Executive, MapAction
Ecology and Conservation BSc, 1993
"Humanitarian crises are rising but the space for civil societies to intervene is shrinking globally for a variety of reasons. While we have more people formally taking up education in development studies, fewer are reaching on the ground. 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 the current ways of our doing things."
Deepti Ameta, Consultant in women’s economic empowerment, India
Globalisation and Development MA, 2014