What do you do if your education isn't enough to launch a career in social impact?

Most people are working in roles that they did not study for or that didn't even exist while they were in school. I think the special thing about social impact, is that it involves more heart than head. If you're willing to make a difference, you'll be willing to learn anything. Just try, who knows?

I am a scientist passionate about bridging gender gap in STEM. While transitioning from academia to the development sector, I first looked for volunteering opportunities where I can leverage my current transferable skills. During my time as a volunteer, I identified the areas which excites me the most and started gaining more skills to help me grow. Once I was sure about the transition, I started networking actively and got connected to people who are passionate about the cause. I also keep an open mind and constantly look for learning opportunities.

Add as many skills as you can to your arsenal and that start applying them, anywhere you can, and then show the results. Keep building on your skills.

Whether you're suited for a career in social impact has absolutely nothing to do with your education. Let's just be clear about that from the start. Empathy, for example, is a superpower in social impact, as is compassion and caring, and none of those things come out of school or college. Most people I meet doing things that matter do those things because they paid attention, saw a problem they hated seeing, and relentlessly pushed themselves to find a solution. Sure, if you're good at maths or languages - things you may well have learnt at school - they can help with budgeting and project proposals, but the things that really drive you, and that will determine whether you have the impact you want or not, come from within. Full stop.

Assessing your skills involves identifying your strengths and weaknesses to determine what additional skills or knowledge you need. Start by listing your current skills and experiences. Then, research the requirements for careers in social impact to identify any gaps. Consider volunteering, internships, or further education to gain necessary skills. Networking with professionals in the field can also provide valuable insights and opportunities for growth.

If your education isn't sufficient to launch a career in social impact, gaining experience is key. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, or entry-level positions in organizations aligned with your interests. This hands-on experience will provide practical skills, networking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the field, making you more marketable for impactful roles in the future.

Busque apoio dos amigos, converse, estude, voluntarie-se e dedique-se a apoiar ações ou projetos já existentes. Deixe claro suas intenções e a vontade de aprender, conciliando estudos e práticas reais.

If your education isn't sufficient for a career in social impact, actively networking can bridge the gap. Network actively by engaging with professionals in the field, attending events, and seeking mentorship. Build relationships, showcase your passion, and seek opportunities to learn and contribute. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, connections, and resources that can help launch your career in social impact.

Continuous learning is the commitment to ongoing education and skill development throughout one's career. If your education isn't sufficient for a career in social impact, continuous learning becomes essential. This involves seeking out additional courses, workshops, certifications, or even mentorship opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills in relevant areas such as community development, policy analysis, or nonprofit management. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning allows you to adapt to evolving challenges and make a greater impact in your chosen field.

If your education isn't sufficient to launch a career in social impact, consider additional training or certifications in relevant fields like nonprofit management, social entrepreneurship, or community development. Reflect Purpose, a concept in career development, involves introspection to align your skills, passions, and values with meaningful work. It entails assessing your purpose and leveraging resources to pursue a career that creates positive social change.