Development practitioner and strategistWhat nationality are you? I am South African. What country or area are you looking to work in and why? I wish to work throughout Africa and am currently planning a trip to Malawi in order to pursue this passion. What field do you currently work in? I have worked predominantly in economic development incorporating: * Youth vocational training and development * Developing Arts & Culture as economic drivers * Research * Sectoral strategising * Poverty reduction strategies What qualifications do you hold? I have studied diverse fields: Undergraduate: Fine Art Education Human Resource Management Post Graduate Study: Masters Development Economics (University of Kwa-Zulu Natal) Which do you consider more valuable? Formal education or skills and why? As something of a specialist in the development of education systems, I would attest to the importance of both formal education and skills. For me, an ideal candidate is someone who can combine theoretical understanding with practical output. However, purists of one or the other, should never be denied their value, as it is the abstract thinkers who often develop new ideas and concepts and the do-ers, the skilled people who focus on tangible deliverables who form the fabric of all societies. Describe the benefits of working with others I am a team player, good at maintaining group focus and cohesion. In the development sector this is particularly important as development usually requires some sort of change in a current context - development practitioners in South Africa in particular have to overcome gender, cultural, social, communication and economic barriers to success. This means that projects generally require teams of facilitators whose individual strengths and values work to overcome these barriers. What would you consider as your 'dream job'? As I am a visionary and creative thinker, a job incorporating strategic development and people development would be ideal. How can potential employers contact you? leonie (at) chillibyte (dot) com | 
