By Patricia Gichuki

On Thursday, November 23, 2023, the Placement & Career Services (PACS) Department welcomed a team from Adam Smith International (ASI) for an engaging employer information session. ASI, a certified B Corp global company, offers technical assistance, consulting, and project management services to foster economic and social development initiatives. Collaborating with governments, businesses, and NGOs, ASI tackles a wide range of challenges in governance, economic development, poverty reduction, and public sector reform. Over the past three decades, the company has made a significant impact in over 100 countries, developing strategies and implementing programs to address pressing global issues.

Three managers from ASI's Kenyan office – Sharon Chesire, Stephanie Akweyu, and Bhabra Mburu – shared their firsthand experiences in international development with the students and alumni present. They shared insights into the company's work with various government and international organizations, providing a realistic glimpse into the field of international development.

The managers emphasized the dynamic nature of international development work, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between supporting clients' development agendas and maintaining ethical boundaries. Bhabra and Stephanie also shared their personal journeys, transitioning from accounting and statistics backgrounds to successful project management careers in the international development sector. Sharon, an alumna of USIU-Africa, also shared her post-graduation experiences with a B.A. in International Relations. They encouraged students to explore their interests and not limit themselves to their academic disciplines.

Attendees gained a valuable peek into the daily life of an ASI manager and were encouraged to apply for the company's open corporate and project vacancies. The session provided students with a deeper understanding of international development as a career path and inspired them to consider pursuing opportunities in this impactful field.