Navigating the job search amid shrinking foreign aid

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OPINION

By Dr Caroline Sekiwano

The recent withdrawal or significant reduction of US foreign aid has cast a long shadow over many sectors—especially those that are donor-dependent. For organisations, it has meant project suspensions, halted recruitments, and painful downsizing. For employees and job seekers, it has translated into uncertainty, anxiety, and a bleak outlook. But in moments like these, where economic tides shift and familiar systems falter, staying motivated during a job search becomes both a challenge and a crucial act of resilience.

First, it's important to understand the bigger picture. The hiring freezes, project closures, and slow responses from employers are often not a reflection of your qualifications or worth. They are consequences of systemic change. A shrinking donor landscape creates a domino effect—fewer funds mean fewer initiatives, fewer initiatives mean fewer roles. By recognising this external pressure, job seekers can avoid internalising discouragement. This isn't just your struggle—it's a collective experience.

Yet, even in a dry season, there are seeds worth planting. One of the most powerful mindset shifts you can adopt during this time is to reframe rejection and silence. A “no” doesn’t mean never—it may simply mean not now, not here, or not yet. Sometimes, it’s a redirection toward roles that better align with your evolving purpose or strengths. Every application, every interview, and yes, even every unanswered email, becomes part of your preparation.

Adapting your value proposition is essential. Organisations that are struggling financially are looking for people who can stretch limited resources, find efficiencies, and innovate under pressure. This is the moment to highlight your ability to do more with less. If you’ve ever led a cost-saving project, developed new systems, or helped your team navigate transition, those experiences now matter more than ever. Position yourself as someone who doesn't just function in stability—but thrives in uncertainty.

Equally important is broadening your scope without losing your vision. If your background is rooted in the NGO or international development space, consider sectors with overlapping missions—corporate social responsibility, government programs, academic research, or consulting. Your skills—strategic thinking, partnership development, and community engagement—are highly transferable. By expanding your horizon, you increase your chances without abandoning your passion for impact.

To avoid burnout, shift from seeing the job search as a sprint to treating it like a marathon. Create a rhythm that brings structure to your days. Set aside specific time blocks for different tasks: searching and applying, updating your CV, networking, learning, and most importantly—resting. Progress doesn’t always look like an offer letter. Sometimes, it’s in the email you finally sent, the webinar you attended, or the course you just completed.

Speaking of learning, now is a powerful time to invest in yourself. Upskill in areas that will be vital as organisations adapt to leaner operations—digital tools, fundraising strategies, monitoring and evaluation, leadership development. Online platforms offer countless affordable options. Adding a course or certification not only boosts your profile but reminds you that you’re still growing, even in stillness.

Don’t underestimate the power of connections. Jobs are often found through networks more than listings. Reach out to former colleagues or mentors. Engage with alumni groups or professional communities. Let people know you’re in the market, and stay open to conversations. Sometimes, a single message leads to a surprising opportunity.

Lastly, and perhaps most critically, guard your mental and emotional well-being. The emotional toll of economic uncertainty and prolonged job searching can be heavy. Find practices that ground you—whether it’s prayer, journaling, exercise, volunteering, or simply disconnecting from job boards for a few hours. Protect your hope as fiercely as your resume—because it is your hope that fuels persistence.

This season, as difficult as it may feel, is not the end of opportunity. It may, in fact, be the beginning of your reinvention. Those who remain grounded, adaptable, and hopeful will emerge not only employed—but transformed. You don’t need to sprint. Just keep moving. One application, one connection, one act of courage at a time. —and you’ll find your way to a role that doesn’t just offer a paycheck, but renewed purpose, alignment, and growth.

The writer is a human resource and organisational development adviser