The success of a development worker (DW) placement is not just about having relevant academic qualifications or professional experience and skills. Personal qualities and attitudes are equally important, listed below are some of the essential ones that we look for:

  • Commitment to social justice, poverty eradication and a belief that by working together people can change their own lives for the better.
  • Ability to transfer skills and knowledge through formal or informal training and skill-sharing and to adapt skills and knowledge to the local context and work with existing/limited resources.
  • Flexibility, resourcefulness, resilience and ability to manage stress and change.
  • Creativity and a drive for innovation and excellence. Integrity, maturity and sound judgment.
  • Realistic expectations that while change is possible, it cannot be imposed on people, and it takes time.
  • Sensitivity and respect for cultural, sexual, religious, ideological and ethnic diversity.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to communicate and work with a wide range of people in a participatory and respectful manner.
  • Approachable, good natured and responsive to people’s needs, and therefore able to enhance effective work relationships.
  • Good problem solving skills, an openness to learning and down to earth.
  • Commitment to learn a local language (if necessary).
  • Gender awareness and ability to promote a gender-sensitive approach.
  • Commitment to the vision, values and aims of Progressio and the partner organisation(s).