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

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Where to find Anita

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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