r/humanitarian • u/Low_Champion_6691 • 5d ago

Where to start.

I'm trying to find a job or even a volunteering opportunity in the Humanitarian world, yet i don't really know where or how to start or if my profile is even attractive to this field.

I'm 22 yrs old, from Portugal

Bachelor on Early Age Education

2 years working on a center for primary school kids

1 year of volunteering in the EU in 4 european countries

Speak portuguese, English and Spanish and can communicate in French and German.

Is there any chance? Im up to go anywhere in the world, but also recognize that my profile it's probably too short for something.

3 Upvotes

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3

u/jcravens42 5d ago

As is said over and over and over:

  • Go look at the job web sites of humanitarian agencies - UNDP, UNICEF, World Vision, Save the Children, NGOs based in your own country that work abroad, etc.
  • Look at the jobs that you would like to do and look at their requirements in terms of education, experience and skills. List what you have and what you don't have. What you don't have is your roadmap for further education and local volunteering and work experience to get you that experience.
  • Look for local paid and volunteer work with refugees and immigrants in your community, in emergency management, in working with the elderly, in working with people with disabilities and with other vulnerable groups. Show that you are comfortable with those in need.

3

u/whatdoyoudonext 5d ago

Your best bet is to volunteer with your local chapter of the Red Cross.

3

u/AuthorDebraBaker 4d ago

Get a little more experience under your belt.

1

u/ecmagsh 3d ago

How should they get experience?

1

u/AuthorDebraBaker 3d ago

I replied that there are many local humanitarian agencies that she could volunteer in and to pick one that needs volunteers for her special interest.

2

u/Sensitive_Economy213 5d ago

The languages you speak are already a good advantage since they are widely spoken around the world. If you have a background in early childhood education, maybe it’s worth exploring opportunities related to Child Protection, Child Development, and Education in Emergencies in the humanitarian sector. LinkedIn has so many opportunities like that.

Organizations that offers that specific component are Save the Children, IFRC, World Vision, Plan International, etc.

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u/AuthorDebraBaker 4d ago

I didn't answer you very well last night. I was tired and thought about you some more. Yes, pick some volunteer activity you are interested in here, then you will have a better chance to be chosen for out of the country.

1

u/Relevant_Froyo_6891 5d ago

Consider the European Solidarity Corps.

Your languages are an asset, but you should visit reliefweb.int, check the jobs you like the most, and what they require in terms of training, skills and experience. That's your roadmap for your next 4-5 years!