Working in Africa provides an opportunity to experience another way of life as well as to contribute to improving quality of life in impoverished African nations. There are many opportunities to work in Africa. Foreigners are hired in both government and non-government positions as well as teaching and volunteer positions. With some preparation and planning, and your desire to work there, you will be a competitive applicant for a job in Africa. Instructions -
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Learn as much about the country where you hope to work as possible before you apply for a job. Travel on a visitor visa to Africa. Take college courses in African Studies if possible, or get a degree in International Studies. Read books and magazines that discuss Africa. - 2
Study a foreign language, preferably an African language. If no African languages are offered near you, study French (many countries in West and North Africa are French-speaking) or Spanish or Portuguese, to be able to communicate more effectively with people. -
Decide what sector you wish to work in. For jobs in the government sector, organizations such as United States Agency for International Development (USAID), United Nations (UN) and World Food Organization (WFO) are well established in African countries, and need skilled people to help run the organization. You can look directly at these organizations' websites, or look online at reputable African job link websites such as 4 International Careers & Jobs. - 4
Working for a nongovernment organization (NGO) provides many opportunities to help solve pressing issues in Africa. Many international NGOs throughout Africa work on issues such as environmental conservation, the food crises, AIDS and health care. Again, an online resource is the best place to start, such as the National Consortium for Study in Africa, or research job listings with your favorite NGO, such as AFRICARE or Doctors Without Borders. - 5
Volunteering is a great way to get your foot in the door. There are many organizations that are looking for volunteers help to execute their company's mission. The best known volunteer organization in Africa is the Peace Corps, which requires a minimum two-year commitment. The Peace Corps needs volunteers in many fields such as teaching English, environmental education and job training. Many volunteers end up finding gainful employment in African or the US after their volunteer stint. - 6
To teach English in Africa, first get your teaching certificate and ESL certificate. Then you can research paid and volunteer positions on websites such as Transitions Abroad. - 7
Travel to Africa. Visit different countries so you have an idea of where you would like to work. Visit different organizations and agencies while you are in each country so you can personally meet with employees and potential employers. Be persistent. Once you find a place you'd like to work, submit resumes, send letters of interest, and fill any educational gaps that will make you a more competitive applicant.
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