INDUSTRY SECTORS
Charities and Social Services T
his sector includes charities and other organisations that run on a not-for-profit basis, ranging from very small and locally-based bodies to large national and international entities. Singapore’s currently home to around 140 international not-for-profit organisations. These include intergovernmental organisations (IGOs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with a social, humanitarian or environmental focus, philanthropic foundations, think tanks and corporate sustainability-related organisations. On a smaller scale, there are also numerous local voluntary welfare organisations in Singapore championing everything from support for AIDS patients to education grants and animal rights. Social services, on the other hand, tends to take place in the public sector – hospitals, special education schools and welfare centres – although the role of private and voluntary organisations are just as important.
You’ll need… • Passion • To be highly empathetic • Technical skills depending on the role • Communication skills • Good interpersonal skills • Perseverance
Types of jobs Depending on the area and type of work involved, specialist skills in areas such as healthcare, education and construction may be needed. In more general roles, strong administrative and practical skills are required. International travel may be an option in some instances.
Some main employment categories include: • Service delivery • Fundraising • Policy, research and strategy • Administration
Job-hunting tips • Entry requirements vary depending on the type of work involved. However, graduates must always demonstrate that they are committed to the organisation and can help its cause to grow
Did you know? Five of the world’s top conservation NGOs – Worldwide Fund for Nature, Conservation International, Wildlife Conservation Society, Birdlife International and Fauna & Flora International – have their regional headquarters in Singapore.
• A speculative approach may be fruitful in this sector. Identify organisations of interest and contact them directly even if they do not appear to have job openings
Work experience While paid work experience can be hard to find, it’s very easy to get voluntary experience. Students can also consider looking overseas for such opportunities, if there’s a willingness to travel at this point in time. Alternatively, formal research work on social causes and their related areas of interest while still in school can be taken up.
Deadlines Application deadlines vary widely across this sector. Organisations sending volunteers or workers abroad will have clear deadlines to meet, while general fundraising and administrative positions tend to be available year-round.
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