NikaMy path into humanitarian work started in my childhood. My parents, who met each other while working in development aid in the Democratic Republic of Congo, continued their missions even after starting a family. Growing up, I was deeply influenced by their stories and experiences as we lived in various countries. These formative years sparked my desire to work in developing regions and explore the less known corners of the globe, while contributing to positive change—carrying on the legacy my parents passed down to me.
Living as an expatriate while working as a humanitarian for an NGO is a unique and deeply rewarding experience that goes beyond the typical expat journey. In this post, we explore the highs and lows of expat life for humanitarian workers, providing insights for those considering this path or already on it.
Why Choose a Humanitarian Career Abroad?
Choosing a humanitarian career abroad often stems from a deep desire to make a tangible difference in the world. Working with NGOs allows you to directly impact communities, addressing urgent needs such as healthcare, education, and human rights. The satisfaction of seeing your efforts contribute to real change is one of the greatest rewards of this path.
Navigating the Challenges of Expat Life as a Humanitarian
While the rewards are significant, the challenges of living and working in a foreign country, especially in areas affected by conflict, poverty, or natural disasters, are not to be underestimated. Here are some key challenges humanitarian expats face:
1. Cultural Adjustment
Every country has its own unique culture, and adjusting to it can be challenging. Understanding local customs, language, and social norms is crucial for effective communication and building trust within the community. This adjustment period can be difficult, but it’s an essential part of your role as a humanitarian.
2. Isolation and Loneliness
Humanitarian work can be isolating, especially in remote areas where social interaction is limited. Being away from family and friends, and the comforts of home can lead to feelings of loneliness. It’s important to establish a support network with other expats, local colleagues, and online communities to help combat these feelings. During our missions, we often found ourselves as the only NGO working in certain areas, with small teams of expats. This small and diverse group can make living and working together challenging. Given the unpredictable nature of who will be present, it’s crucial to bring items that support your mental health—music, photos from home, a diary, or small personal objects can offer comfort and balance.
3. Emotional and Physical Strain
The nature of humanitarian work often involves dealing with traumatic situations, such as witnessing suffering and managing crises. The physical demands of working in challenging environments, from extreme climates to limited resources, can also take a toll. Practicing self-care and seeking professional support when needed is vital to maintaining your well-being. Additionally, emergency missions often mean long hours without regular days off. Ensure you’re well-prepared and energetic for the demanding work ahead. Don’t forget that arriving as an expert in their country doesn’t mean you know everything. Take your time to observe and understand the existing systems before making any changes. Make notes about your observations, especially since after about two weeks, people quickly become accustomed to new routines, and you may overlook things you noticed initially. Allow yourself and the local team time and respect before implementing any changes. Frequent changes imposed by new expats can be frustrating for national workers, who may feel their established methods are being disregarded. Showing respect and patience is crucial.
Embracing the Rewards
Despite the challenges, the rewards of being an expat humanitarian are immense:
1. Making a Difference
The most significant reward is knowing that your work has a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether you’re helping to provide clean water, ensuring access to education, or advocating for human rights, the difference you make is real and lasting.
2. Cultural Immersion
Living in a foreign country offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the world, learn new languages, and develop a more global perspective. This cultural exchange enriches your life and broadens your horizons in ways few other experiences can.
3. Personal and Professional Growth
The challenges you face as a humanitarian will push you out of your comfort zone and help you develop resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. These experiences not only contribute to your personal growth but also enhance your professional credentials, making you a more well-rounded and capable individual.As you adapt to a new environment, be open to learning some of the local language and customs. Try local foods, listen to local music, and engage with the people around you. Bringing small gifts from your home country can also foster goodwill and create lasting connections with the locals.
Tips for Thriving as an Expat Humanitarian
- Build a Strong Support Network: Connect with fellow expats, local communities, and online networks to share experiences and advice.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Regularly engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
- Stay Informed and Prepared: Understanding the political, social, and environmental context of the region you’re working in can help you navigate challenges more effectively.
- Embrace Flexibility: Be open to change and ready to adapt to unexpected situations. Flexibility is key in humanitarian work.
Conclusion
Life as an expat humanitarian working for an NGO is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. It requires resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to making a difference. For those willing to embrace these challenges, the experience offers unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as the chance to contribute to meaningful global change.
About Beyond Borders
At Beyond Borders, we’re dedicated to supporting humanitarian workers around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned expat or considering a career in NGO work, our resources and community are here to help you navigate the complexities of humanitarian life. Explore more about expat life, career tips, and global opportunities on our blog.
