With ambitious international goals set for 2030 and a host of complex development crises facing us, volunteers are more vital than ever. Development initiatives of this decade will be greatly marked by the effects of climate change, inflation, and new viral pandemics, among other challenges to growth. Luckily, this generation of problem-solvers is especially clear-eyed about these challenges and may be better informed than any generation prior. But the abundance of available information doesn’t always help to guide volunteers on how to worth ethically. If we want to see progress on these ambit ..read more

Here is a look at the top 10 reasons to work in international development as recommended by humanitarian MK Asha. Find more about Asha here. There are many reasons to work in international development. Some people are drawn to the work because they want to help others and make a difference in the world. Others are attracted to the challenge of working in a complex and ever-changing environment. And still, others are motivated by the opportunity to learn about new cultures and ways of life. Whatever your reasons, if you’re considering a career in international development, there are a few thing ..read more

Here is a look at resilience within the humanitarian aid sector as recommended by Ludmila Barros. A lot of people get attracted to the humanitarian aid/development sector for the possibility it brings us to live and work in places that most of our friends and family members would need to find in the map, while contributing to make the world a little better – or at least, a little less terrible for those affected by conflicts, catastrophes, diseases, natural disasters. An adventurous and meaningful life, many would reckon. Well…yes, but reality is not so rosy. I started my career in the develop ..read more

How do you choose the best therapy following a traumatic humanitarian incident or burnout? Here is a look at choosing the best therapy for humanitarians as recommended by Amanda Lee. Find Additional information about her services here. A humanitarian aid worker inquires as to how one goes about choosing the “right track” for therapy following a traumatic incident during humanitarian deployment. How do you know which therapeutic methodology is right for you? Is it important that a therapist has field work experience? Do you have to confront traumatic memories in order to heal? Dear Amanda ..read more

You are what you do, but is that true?  Here is a look at burnout and what to do about it as recommended by Amanda Lee. Find Additional information about her services here. How enmeshed is your sense of self-worth with your employment? Many humanitarians feel that what they do professionally is a reflection of who they are as a person. They perceive that their value is directly tied to their job. Is this belief serving you well? Is it healthy? When facing the dark spectre of burn-out it can feel impossible to extricate yourself from your mission. If you can only give what you’ve got, then ..read more

Are you wondering how to get a United Nations Volunteer (UNV) program interview? Want to know the secret about how to get shortlisted with UNV? Then read on. I am here to provide you with clear tips on how to get an interview with the United Nations Volunteers program. Let’s begin! What is the United Nations Volunteer Program? The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program is designed for skilled professionals to work with UN agencies online, domestically, as well as internationally. The United Nations Volunteer application process can get super competitive, so follow along to learn the best ways ..read more

Humanitarian aid and development aid are words that are often used interchangeably in humanitarian discussion. However, there are a few distinct differences that I will discuss today. Follow along to learn the difference between humanitarian aid and development aid. Difference Between Humanitarian Aid and Development Aid Humanitarian Aid Development Aid Short-term Long-term Responds to a specific crisis Aims for systemic change Focused on immediate lifesaving aid Works to alleviate poverty Delivered in any country affected by a disaster Delivered to low and middle-income countries ..read more

UN, MSF, UNDP, UNICEF, HQ, LMIC’s, GBV, WASH, NGO, INGO, and on and on and on. The humanitarian aid sector uses thousands of acronyms with new ones added every day. Fortunately for you, I have compiled a complete guide to humanitarian acronyms to help you as you embark on a career within the international aid field. Many of the acronyms listed were derived from UNICEF’s website located here. I have added to the list to include acronyms outside of the UN system. Feel free to bookmark this page to reference for later! A Complete Guide to Humanitarian Acronyms A AAP – Accountability for Affected ..read more

As a humanitarian aid worker, I usually like to pack hiking pants when I go on international assignments. I find they are both comfortable and quick drying. They are also great for different landscapes, terrain, and for going sightseeing on the days off. My biggest challenge has been finding hiking pants for petite women. After scouring every corner of the internet, I have found a few brands that offer hiking pants for petite women and I am here to share that list with you. So, say goodbye to your Youth Large. Let’s begin! The Best Hiking Pants for Petite Women None of these links are affiliat ..read more

Are you wondering how to become a humanitarian aid worker? Wondering what the best degrees for humanitarian aid work are? Well, you’re in luck. Humanitarian aid is a field of work that welcomes individuals from a variety of academic backgrounds. In fact, for many United Nations jobs the academic requirement will state: “Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences or related area. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the ..read more