Connected through caring.
NYUAD: One of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals is to promote peace, justice and strong institutions. How does your work align with that goal?
While at NDI I helped with democratic development support programs for southern and east African countries. One project I worked on was designed to bolster civic participation in Zimbabwe. Another helped connect NGOs in Tanzania so that people with disabilities can gain access to voting stations on election days.
NYUAD: How did NYUAD help develop your skills and interest?
NYUAD’s multidisciplinary approach, the minor in peace studies specifically, helped clarify what I wanted to do and the things I care about. I took classes in economics, psychology, and anthropology, which helped me see different perspectives on similar topics.
NYUAD: What advice do you have for other students?
There are many ways you can get into international development and diplomacy. I was motivated by academia but somebody else can use their volunteer experience to get a position right out of school or work for a small community-based organization. Everyone’s journey is going to be different.