To all the dedicated and hardworking staff in the humanitarian sector who may not have the same privileges as others but are still tirelessly working towards making a difference in the world – this one’s for you.
It is hard not to feel discouraged when you have experienced setback after setback in your career and professional life. I can empathize with the sadness and frustration you may feel when you recall being laughed at for daring to apply for an “international/expat” role as a national staff employee. It is disheartening to be denied a specialized/expert title or be kicked out of a technical unit because your education is not from a “well-recognized” institution or you don’t have the same educational privilege.
I know how challenging it can be to present yourself in a certain way to be taken seriously or to get acceptance from others around you. I understand how frustrating it is to have a manager who may not be qualified, and you have to build their capacity because you do not have the same privileges or opportunities to be the manager. And it is soul-crushing to be rejected time and time again when seeking opportunities to advance your career because of your nationality, gender, age, appearance, or religion.
And while it may seem like the universe is conspiring against you when you receive a conditional contract for a job only to have it taken away because of visa issues or when rejection emails flood your inbox because of your nationality, gender, or age. I want you to know that those setbacks do not define you. They are just roadblocks on the path to your ultimate destination, and you have the strength and determination to overcome them.
Your worth and value in the humanitarian sector are not determined by your privilege. The work that you do is incredibly important and makes a real difference in the lives of those who are most in need. The impact that you have on the world should not be overlooked, and you should take pride in the fact that you are contributing to something greater than yourself.
I know that it can be demotivating to have to work twice as hard as others just to be seen as equal, to have to sacrifice your personal life to develop skills and knowledge that others take for granted. But I want you to remember that your perseverance in the face of such adversity is what sets you apart. The fact that you have had to fight so hard for everything you have achieved shows just how much you want it and how much you are willing to work for it.
It is also important to remember that progress and growth in your career can come in many different forms. Perhaps you may not have access to the same opportunities as others, but you can still take ownership of your own professional development. Seek out new learning opportunities, attend conferences and workshops, network with other professionals in the field, and continuously work on improving your skills and knowledge. Find mentors who went through similar challenges, read articles, use online learnings, engage with others who face the same challenge, and wait until the time comes.
Remember that growth is not always linear and that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the process. And when you look back on your career and current situation and feel sadness and frustration, remember that you are not alone. There are others out there who have faced similar challenges and obstacles, and who have come out the other side stronger and more resilient. Take comfort in the fact that your struggles have made you who you are today, and that you are capable of achieving great things.
Never forget that your dedication and hard work will pay off. While it may take some time to reach your desired role, your consistent effort and passion for the work you do will not go unnoticed. Stay committed, stay driven, and never lose sight of the impact that you are making in the world.