Why did you choose LSE, and why did you choose your programme of study?
I chose both LSE and my course for the reputation of the department of Social Policy and the content of the SP course.
Overall, how do you look back on your LSE experience?
My time at LSE has given me the chance to learn from people from different backgrounds, and to always be constructively critical of the world around us (even while busy at work). It was an amazing opportunity to learn from the best minds in my field and others. I took the lessons (not just actual classes) from LSE with me and try to apply it in different aspects of my professional and personal life.
Please describe your career path to date:
I did an unpaid internship while at LSE with an international NGO based in London in my field. After leaving London, I spent 6 months trying to find a job in international development or humanitarian work in my field of expertise, which is protection of persons with disabilities. It was difficult to re-enter the field even though I had 3 years of field experience prior to LSE. For the past 2 years, I have worked for Handicap International supporting persons with disabilities in different humanitarian responses around the world. I’ve been to countries such as South Sudan, Jordan, Lebanon and lastly, Iraq. In South Sudan I supported persons with disabilities together with local organisations to promote inclusive education and inclusive health services. In Jordan and Lebanon, I worked with Syrian refugees with disabilities to ensure they have equal access to services. In Iraq, I focused on advocacy, supporting the whole Iraqi programme as well as other humanitarian NGOs on how to be inclusive of persons with disabilities.
Why did you choose your current job?
Persons with disabilities are one of the most vulnerable groups in the world, especially in situations of natural disasters and conflict. It is also an area with very few experts. I chose my work to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met just as any other person in need of support.
Tell us about your current job:
I am currently Handicap International’s Advocacy Coordinator for Iraq, which means covering all their activities in the country - physical rehabilitation and psychological support for Iraq Internally Displaced People (IDPs), Mine Risk Education, Deming and Clearance of explosives, support to Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs) and Inclusion. In addition, my work involves advocating with other NGOs for protection of civilians, respect of humanitarian law and observance of human rights during an armed conflict. My work requires strategic thinking, excellent writing skills, good communication and diplomatic skills as well as pro-activiness and technical knowledge of our areas of intervention.
What advice do you have for LSE students who are looking to enter a similar profession to you?
Understand your skills, your strengths, your qualifications and how you can use them in this field of work. Knowing yourself and you what you want is the first step in any career planning. Talk to those who have experience in the area, get a better (and more tailored) idea of how your profile and aspirations fit the needs in the sector. Get a good view about positions available and in which one your skills match better. This is also helpful to design your CV and write cover letters.
Professionally speaking it is important to start with internships and not be to eager to move up to fast. Don’t worry about spending time doing volunteer work or internships - it’s actually better. In my almost 8 years of working in the field, I’ve seen many people making crucial mistakes because they lack experience for the job they are performing. Therefore, do not worry about moving fast - if you start at a HQ for instance, take your time to learn the basics and to learn from people who are in the field before going on missions. In your first mission, it is better to avoid the complex humanitarian responses, especially if this is your first time working in a developing country.
Lastly, to work in international development or humanitarian responses it is important to be culturally sensitive. You will always be surrounded by people from different countries and cultures and, therefore, tolerance and respect are key to enter and continue in this field. This goes beyond just being respectful of the culture of the country where you work, but also to your colleagues who come from all over the world. In humanitarian responses, it is very likely that you will spend most (if not all) of your time with your colleagues - you will work, live, and socialise with people from your organisation.