In this episode of What I Do For Work, Anita Patrick speaks with Pearl Utuk, a social entrepreneur and international development professional, about her journey from volunteering to finding career clarity. Pearl shares her experiences at the African Leadership Academy, the career uncertainty challenges she grappled with, and the importance of networking and preparation in achieving career goals.
What you’ll learn:
How volunteering can open doors to meaningful, high-impact careers.
Why networking isn’t just for formal events, and how to build connections anywhere.
Key technical skills needed to thrive in the development and social enterprise space.
How to prepare for opportunities even when your career path feels unclear.
How to embrace nonlinear career journeys and unexpected turns.
The power of documenting and sharing your work to attract new opportunities.
The role of faith during uncertain times.
Why every small contribution can create a ripple effect in your community.
Where to find Pearl and Teach The Child
Where to find Anita
What I Do For Work on social
#WIDFWPodcast
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Impactful Careers
02:46 Pearl Utuk's Journey in Social Impact
04:07 Day-to-Day Responsibilities at African Leadership Academy
06:11 Entering the Impact Space
08:26 The Role of Volunteering in Career Clarity
10:47 Building Skills and Overcoming Challenges
12:36 Finding Opportunities in Uncertainty
14:59 Developing Technical Skills for Social Development
17:51 The Importance of Networking and Documentation
20:07 Identifying Problems and Creating Solutions
36:31 Funding Community Projects
39:36 The Birth of Project Teach the Child
42:34 Navigating Career Opportunities
48:02 The Power of Networking
50:31 Transitioning from Project to NGO
57:07 Ambition vs. Contentment in Career
01:06:53 Mandela Washington Application
Production and marketing by Anita Patrick