NGO Networking and Discussion Panel Success at Penryn

Students in Penryn attended a panel discussion and networking event on working in NGOs.  They were joined by senior members of NGOs, including the CEO of Shelterbox Alison Wallace, Jamie Piriou, a senior service manager at the British Red Cross, and Peter Jefferson from the Cornwall Rural Community Council.

The focus of the evening was on what students could do to help them get a job with an NGO once they have graduated.  As the career pathway to getting work in NGOs is not necessarily straightforward, events like this are important as they allow students to discuss their options with leading practitioners in an informal environment.  The SSIS employability team puts on regular events like this for different sectors.

The panellists were also joined by student Elizabeth Flowers, who set up her own sustainable clothing NGO, the AFAWI Clothing Cooperative with associates in Ghana.  Elizabeth demonstrated that with drive and determination, students can make a difference by creating their own charity.

Twenty one students attended and feedback suggests that everyone found it helpful.  One attendee said that she “found the event really helpful because it gave me a good idea of what working in an NGO involved… I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s thinking of working in a charity or NGO; the panellists gave me some great advice on how to get the perfect internship”.