Navigating a Career in the Charity Sector

Are you passionate about making a difference and considering a career in the charity sector?

Working for a charity offers the chance to contribute to causes that matter while building a dynamic and rewarding career. Last A few weeks ago, I attended a session delivered by Andrew Betts, Director of Advantage Africa, and walked away with valuable insights that I believe will resonate with anyone starting out in this field.

Below, I’ve outlined my key takeaways from the session with Andrew to help you explore this sector with purpose and clarity.

1. Start by Volunteering

Volunteering is the best first step for anyone curious about working in charities. It shows your commitment to a cause, allows you to develop skills relevant to the sector, and helps you explore whether this path aligns with your passions and values.

If you’re unable to commit to regular volunteering, consider getting involved in fundraising activities instead. Organizing a bake sale, participating in a charity run, or hosting a community event are all excellent ways to support a cause while building valuable skills. Activities like these showcase your ability to plan, market, and execute events—skills that are highly sought after in the charity sector.

Fundraising also highlights your proactive approach and commitment to adding social value, demonstrating that you’re willing to go the extra mile to make a positive impact.

2. Consider Becoming a Charity Trustee

Did you know you can become a charity trustee even in your early 20s? Charities are eager to involve young people in governance roles to bring fresh perspectives and ideas. Being a trustee means you’ll help steer the strategic direction of a charity and make decisions that impact its future.

Trusteeship can often be done alongside your studies or work, making it a fantastic way to showcase leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to social good on your CV.

3. Understand Why You Want to Work in the Sector

Before diving into a charity career, it’s essential to ask yourself: Why do I want to work for a charity?

Your reasons might include a passion for solving societal challenges, a commitment to specific causes, or a desire to work in a values-driven environment. By understanding your motivations, you’ll not only choose roles that align with your interests but also stay resilient during tough times. Charity work can be challenging, so having a clear sense of purpose will keep you motivated.

4. Appreciate the Range of Roles Available

One of the misconceptions about charities is that they only hire for roles directly involved in community work. In reality, the sector offers a broad range of career opportunities.

Charities need experts in fundraising, marketing, finance, IT, HR, and communications, alongside hands-on roles in community projects and advocacy. If you have a particular skill or academic background, chances are there’s a way to use it to make a difference.

5. Find Your Niche: Practical Work or Policy Advocacy?

Charities typically work on two levels: practical, on-the-ground projects and larger-scale policy or advocacy initiatives.

Practical work might involve implementing programs, managing events, or supporting beneficiaries directly. Policy work, on the other hand, focuses on influencing government policies, conducting research, and driving systemic change.

Both areas are vital to creating long-term impact, and many roles combine aspects of both. As you explore the sector, reflect on where your interests lie—you may even find yourself drawn to a mix of the two.

6. Get Creative with Problem-Solving

Charities often operate with limited budgets, which means creativity and resourcefulness are key. Whether it’s finding innovative ways to fundraise, reimagining how to deliver services, or managing operations on a shoestring, charity work will push you to think outside the box.

This environment is perfect for anyone who loves problem-solving and thrives under pressure. It’s also an incredible opportunity to learn new skills, take on diverse challenges, and see the tangible results of your creativity.

7. Explore the Dynamics of Small Charities

If you’re looking for variety and impact, small charities can be a great fit. Unlike larger organizations with more specialised roles, small charities often need multi-taskers who can wear many hats.

You might find yourself involved in everything from event planning to budgeting to frontline work. This agility fosters collaboration and means you’ll often interact with leadership teams, giving you a clearer view of the organization’s overall impact.

8. Celebrate Small Wins and Stay Resilient

Charity work can be incredibly rewarding but also demanding. Progress might feel slow at times, especially when tackling systemic challenges. That’s why it’s important to celebrate small wins along the way—whether it’s reaching a fundraising target, launching a new project, or hearing firsthand how your work has made a difference.

Resilience is key to thriving in this sector. Surround yourself with supportive colleagues, stay connected to your “why,” and remember that even the smallest victories contribute to a larger mission.

 

A career in the charity sector is as diverse as it is rewarding. Whether you’re drawn to practical work, policy advocacy, or behind-the-scenes operations, there’s a place for your skills and passion.

To start your journey, consider volunteering, becoming a trustee, and reflecting on what drives you. These first steps will not only help you build experience but also give you a taste of the challenges and rewards this sector has to offer.