Civil Society

Working at an NGO is a dynamic and varied experience given the diversity of topic areas that NGOs work on. Working in the sector provides an opportunity for rewarding and meaningful work alongside colleagues that share the same mission/purpose. Self-growth and initiative is vital particularly in smaller organisations where individuals may be required to take on numerous roles.

What are the key skill sets most important to succeeding in this role?

Communication - partnerships and stakeholder engagement are essential in this sector.
Adaptability and flexibility - NGOs are often required to navigate challenges, work cross-culturally and potentially deal with sensitive issues while working with diverse populations.
Project management - deploying a mix of tools and practices to complete projects while constrained by scope, time, and budget.
Data analytics - leveraging a range of tools and softwares to drive data related insights for stakeholders with a specific focus on impact measurement and metrics.
Fundraising - many NGOs rely on grants and donations, so good commercial acumen and ability to engage with donors as well as strong writing skills are needed.

Uzoamaka (Uzo) Nwamarah, Imperial alumnus and Climate Change Adviser at the Commonwealth Secretariat offers some great advice: “Reach out and engage more with people. There’s more to university life than your course so take full advantage of the opportunities presented within the wider university ecosystem. Join clubs, work with different lecturers and volunteer your time across the various institutes, labs and innovation centres, so you’re building your skills and developing relationships. "I know you’re thinking about your future and passing exams, but the time goes quickly so relax more. Seek out those connections that challenge and inspire you, for in them lies the foundation for a future rich with potential and possibility.”

Career Case Study

Project manager at a youth-led sustainability NGO in Hong Kong

What does the day to day look like?

Identifying potential funding sources and collaborators, brainstorming ideas, designing projects and programme structures. This means quite a few meetings for me with key stakeholders throughout the day. For days where I am visiting schools to deliver workshops about climate resilience and sustainability, I prepare content and run through workshop logistics.

What kind of skills are most important in your line of work, and what are your top tips for how to develop them?

Constant willingness to learn. There is always so much to get involved in. I feel like my role shifts constantly. Stay curious and motivated to put yourself out of your comfort zone to embrace challenges.

I would also say skills such as marketing, financial management, project management are all important ones that you should have the willingness to learn about and try out on the job.

What is your key advice & top tips for young people looking to enter this field?

I will focus on advice for preparing your CV. List out projects that show your passion and tell your own story. Make sure to use LinkedIn actively for your personal branding – look through the profiles of people you admire and identify what they do well to tell their story.

Also, be opportunistic! Be it identifying potential new partners, or coming up with new creative ideas for a workshop to be held, always keep an open mind for opportunities that you can leverage.

(Sector-specific question): Do you have any resources you would suggest young people can look at?

There are plenty of resources that are global and regional, so here are my suggestions:

At a Global scale: Work in Climate, Climate Drift

Specific to the UK: GreenJobs Board, The Guardian

Specific to Asia: Jobmakesense, Climate Incubator weekly career booster (Hong Kong)