NON-STATE bodies, such as Hong Kong-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play an increasingly important role in the community as representatives of public interest and as an alternative to direct state action. Yet, they are often overlooked as a career option.
Modern NGOs offer ample opportunities to develop an exciting and meaningful career as they are increasingly taking part in a variety of activities. Some of their big projects involve relief efforts, programme development, policy research, advocacy and many other activities.
Basil Fernando, executive director of the Asian Human Rights Commission, summed it up perfectly.
'It's just [about] people getting involved in their own society - that's what NGOs are,' he said.
For job seekers, it is important to find the type of organisation they are interested in. Whether they want a more hands-on role in an operational NGO or to work in an advocacy and educational role with a campaigning NGO is important for their career satisfaction.
'There is more and more specialisation. It's important to focus and find your specialisation. Don't think of human rights as a whole - focus on one area,' Mr Fernando said.
Chong Chan-yau, senior adviser at Oxfam Hong Kong, said people coming to this area must believe in their job. There was an organisation to suit everybody's passion and if there was an issue that a person really related to, they would become more motivated.