The allure for working within the humanitarian sector is great! Especially with the notion that such jobs, offered mainly by reputable non-governmental organisations, venerable foundations and humanitarian agencies, pay very handsome wages.

If you are a fresh university graduate, unemployed but with some education, or just employed but feeling underpaid or would like to earn more or grow your career, this allure is even greater. But it gets much greater for those who are already working there and would want to maneuver their career with success and impact.

Eons ago, I was privileged to have gone to school with one Silper Pesa. This week, Silper, who has done a lot of humanitarian work with reputable organisations all over the world informed me that she has authored a book, Crossing Borders. In the book, Silper gives a step-by-step guide to job-seekers on what one needs to do to get a chance into this solar plexus that is humanitarian work. If you want to get into humanitarian work (jobs), get hold of this book.

Imagine a journey where every challenge faced, every barrier crossed, leads to meaningful change – not just in communities around the world but within oneself. In Crossing Borders, the author draws from over two decades of first-hand experience across 13 countries to create a comprehensive guide that equips aspiring humanitarian professionals with actionable advice, powerful insights, and the courage to step into the unknown.

The book begins with the author’s personal story as an ambitious student intern with a dream, evolving into a distinguished career marked by resilience, adaptability and a deep commitment to global change. Crossing Borders offers the reader an authentic view of the humanitarian field – from navigating emergencies and coordinating with global agencies to making a lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable communities.

The book goes beyond the surface and is also relevant to any other person intent on making career impacts, not just within humanitarian work. It shows how John Maxwell’s Law of Intentionality – growth only happens with purpose – applies to anyone stepping into a career with a goal to make a difference.

Whether the reader is a recent graduate, an experienced professional seeking a new direction, or a career changer, Crossing Borders lays out a clear and inspiring path. Through powerful stories and hard-earned lessons, Silper invites readers to discover the resilience required to thrive in this challenging field and gives practical steps for achieving success in humanitarian role around the world.

For sure, your journey begins here. The author challenges readers to dare, to push boundaries and to make a difference. This guide is not just a book; it is a call to action. For those ready to create change and contribute to humanitarian work, now is the time to step forward.

In Nairobi, the book is available at Nuria Bookshop, or at: available in Amazon Paperback: bit.ly/SPAmazonPaperback 2) Amazon Kindle: bit.ly/486aBkP 3) Wahida Publishing: bit.ly/3Uae77N 4) Indigo: bit.ly/3U4apMQ 5) Barnes & Noble: bit.ly/403xcMU

• A Tell report / By Tervil Okoko