Campaigns against Nuclear Disarmament AGM

Saturday 18th October 2008

As my first chance to network, I attended the AGM of Campaigns against Nuclear Disarmament (CND) held at Westminster University, London.

I felt somewhat intimidated that I was one of the very few young people amongst the crowd. The AGM wasn't as busy as I had expected, considering how internationally established the organisation is. I was really there to help at the WILPF stall, to meet other organisations lobbying against nuclear arms. I came across organisations who were much more specialised to nuclear disarmament than WILPF.

It was interesting to witness how much emphasis CND has on America policy for nuclear arms. No doubt, the US has major influence in the development of nuclear arms, stimulating countries like Russia and China to de-develop and improve their weapons. Nevertheless, concentrating on the home front, grassroot campaigning in lobbying and writing to our own government is very important in swaying any change in foreign policy. Strong campaigns from grassroots can be linked with local issues and will help promote our campaigns well before the coming European and General Elections.

We need more young people to lobby and join these organisations. Surely, I can't be the only 23 year old to care about these issues...?

International Development Careers Fair

October 10th 2008

I’m so glad I went to this fair. Not only did I meet people I’d spoke to over the phone but help me realise my potential soon after graduation. I met consultants who were interested in me, received advice and positive remarks from professionals within the NGO sector which altogether boosted my confidence.

While sitting in a seminar about ‘How to get into international development’, it was remarkable to see the room full of graduates (BA/MA) who for at least 2-3 years still not in their desired career role. I often found myself wondering why so many people, who clearly have the educational background, are struggling to enter particularly role. Of course, this made me feel scared and anxious as a new graduate, but hope was quickly restored. At first I listened to the panelists view and own experiences within the sector before a grueling Q&A session. I soon found myself wanting to answer students’ questions and offered one or two suggestion.

As a graduate, it is natural for us to assume that a job will fall onto our laps, having spent years gruelling in a classroom and debt high up to our neck to obtain a degree. Perhaps some people don't try hard enough to look or are aiming too high. Since June 2008, my career thoughts have fluctuated from business to the complete opposite. It's natural. We're young and undecided to what we would like to do for the rest of our life. Fluctuating thoughts isn't the best way to start something new, therefore my interest is gauged in politics and development- for at least a month. Since this new focus, I have managed to secure 3 interviews, namely, British Red Cross, Leverhulme Trust and The National Council of the Voluntary Sector. I thought that was a pretty good start as a rookie. Apparently my attitude was fresh and coming from a language and business background, this perspective could be the strength of whatever development job I would apply for – it was different and I had something more to offer than a student who studied Development.

The highlight of the day was meeting Bremley Lyngdoh. He inspired me with his experience and contribution to international society. Bremley is clearly a man passionate for change - I took the chance to meet and talk with him after the seminar. He had so much knowledge and information about the ins and out of the United Nations and is pioneering environment changes amongst other leading academics and decision-makers.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Bremley for restoring hope and inspiring me to one day do all the things he has and is doing. Very good role model.