Working in the Non-profit and NGO sector
The non-profit and NGO sector is broad, with large organisations like the EU and UN, but it is mostly made up of smaller, lesser-known foundations. These organisations focus on causes such as human rights, environmental sustainability, and education. UvA alumni will share their experiences working in this sector and provide insights into the career opportunities, challenges, and rewards of making a difference in these organisations.
Are you interested in pursuing a career working in a non-profit or NGO company? Sign up for this session to meet with UvA alumni that have built a career in the Netherlands in these fields. Learn from their challenges, experiences and take good note of their tips and tricks.
Name: Catalina Von Hildebrand
Study programme: MSc International Development Studies (IDS), specialization in Environment, Conflict and Development
Current position: Communications Specialist at Oxfam Novib
Advice: Get involved in initiatives during your studies, use your LinkedIn and network as much as you can!
Name: Ken Owino
Study programme: MA Journalism, Media and Globalisation (Erasmus Mundus Master's)
Current position: Communications Officer at Netherlands Food Partnership (NFP)
Advice: embrace opportunities to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, from grassroots organizations to policymakers and the private sector and don't forget to be your authentic self, and to be curious, culturally aware and adaptive
Name: Philip Chemayel
Study programme: BA Media and Information, Research Master Media studies
Current position: cultural producer at Wheel-minded, freelance filmmaker, head of board of Leštnice and Špejchar
Advice: dare to try things out, ask for help and make sure to share your enthusiasm
Name: Julie Heezius
Study programme: Master Public International Law (International and European Law)
Current position: Senior Advocacy Officer at Human Rights Activists in Iran
Advice: Starting looking early and start broad, try multiple areas and strands of international law, there is so much out there that you could enjoy
Name: Vera Bakker
Study programme: BSc Political Science, International Relations (minor Philosophy and Gender Studies); MSc International Development Studies
Current position: Community Manager for Alumni Relations and Fundraising at UvA
Advice: Be curious. Ask people questions to connect and network. Show engagement and stand out by being you. Get to know yourself better and what you are passionate about.
Name: Cherukéi Wobo
Study programme: BSc Political Science ; MSc Conflict Resolution & Governance, LLM in Law & Politics of International Security (Vrije Universiteit)
Current position: Senior Advocacy & Communications Specialist at War Child
Advice: use your internaitonal background to your advantage, your background and perspective are very valuable especially in international and NGO work. Cultural fluency, adaptability, and multilingual skills are golden qualities which you should highlight.
