Yesterday evening saw the launch of Imperial's International Development Network. The ID Network aims to involve students and relevant societies in current debates around international volunteering, to connect them to individuals and organisations with extensive experience in the field, and to share information, debates and resources.
The launch event welcomed students who have previously volunteered abroad or who are interested in being involved in international development projects this year. Attendees included students from Kenyan Orphan Project, Model UN, e.quinox and Imperial Hub. They shared their interests and experiences over drinks and nibbles, as well as gaining valuable insight from guest David Coles, co-founder and trustee of KickStart Ghana. KickStart Ghana is a charity that aims to ensure that the people of the Volta Region, in Ghana, can fulfil their potential and have every opportunity to succeed.
A key topic discussed was how to pursue a career in the International Development sector. David Coles and Alice Robinson from Impact International shared their top tips with the students:
- Work experience, work experience, work experience
- Know your speciality or interest – is it income generation or sexual health for instance? (often you need a specific skill)
- Think outside the box – International Development isn’t just aid and relief work in the field it is generally office based. How do your specific strengths and skills fit best with different roles in the sector?
- Look for small organisations to gain work experience as you will be given more responsibility and learn more.
Coming up next: The inaugural event of The Series, 18:00 on Thursday 17 October. Louay El Abed from the charity Syria Relief will be sharing his expertise and insight on humanitarian efforts in Syria, followed by group discussion and debate.
If you're interested in future International Development Network events, please email development@imperialhub.org or join their Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/747355301957522/?fref=ts
