Career Exploration Video & Audio
Career Conversations Panel:
Discovering Careers in Non-Profit, Charitable and Non-Governmental Organizations
Recorded November 10, 2010During this panel, professionals in non-profit, charitable, and non-governmental organizations shared their personal stories about breaking into the field, how their career paths took them from graduation to where they are now, what knowledge, skills and experience helped them succeed in their jobs and what types of opportunities are available in the field.
| Non-Profit, Charitable and NGO Panel: Full Session |
Panelist Introductions
Nora Priestly
Chair, Board of Directors, Yellow Brick House
Alumna: BA, Liberal Studies, York University, 1996
As some of the responsibilities of being a parent began to lessen, it was time to find a way to give back to a community organization. At the same time I was considering this, a friend recommended me to the Board of Yellow Brick House and that began my experience with a terrific organization, fantastic volunteers and working on a very important not-for-profit service - a 24/7 shelter, counselling and outreach services for women and their children escaping domestic violence in York Region. What I personally have received through this opportunity has been incredible, the potential we have as a group of committed individuals is unstoppable.
| Non-Profit, Charitable and NGO Panel: Nora Priestly Intro |
Rufaro Mudimu
Global Leadership Seminars Coordinator, Me to We Social Enterprises
Alumna: BA Communication Studies & International Development Studies, with a Certificate in Non-Profit Management, York University, 2010
Born and raised in Harare, Zimbabwe, I've always been driven by my passion to change the way people think about the continent of Africa. At first I wanted to be an economic journalist, but a course in global economic development made me come to the realization that words and pictures would never be enough. I dove into studying the non-profit and international development sector; and that is the path I'm in now. Working with Me to We, an innovative organization that offers a multitude of ways to "be the change we wish to see in the world," I'm able to experience some of the small steps needed to achieve global change.
| Non-Profit, Charitable and NGO Panel: Rufaro Mudimu Intro |
Chris de Eyre
Founder & Chair, Tempus International
Alumnus:
BA International Studies & Political Science, York University, 2005
A year of traveling before starting my degree at York is what inspired me to get involved in international development. I founded Tempus International while I was a student, and have been involved ever since. Working with a small team that makes a big difference in the lives of underprivileged youth has been an incredible experience and it's something I will continue doing for as long as I can.
| Non-Profit, Charitable and NGO Panel: Chris de Eyre Intro |
Questions & Answers
| Were there any particular experiences that proved beneficial to getting to where you are? | |||
| Is there anything you wish you had done in terms of your involvement with this sector? | |||
| How did you get funding and get started in your organization? | |||
| What was the most challenging aspect to forming your organization and what obstacles did you overcome? | |||
| What skills and abilities facilitated your success in this sector? | |||
| In your opinion, is a Bachelor-level degree sufficient in this sector? | |||
| Can non-profit organizations create alternative revenue streams during times of government cutbacks? | |||
| How did Tempus International develop networks and connections internationally? | |||
| What is the turn-over rate like? How do you maintain a motivated and passionate volunteer staff? | |||
