Mindie, Researcher at Inclusive Development International

Mindie Bernard has graduated in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action. Coming from the United States, she is Researcher at Inclusive Development International in Accra, Ghana. 

>What is your role and main responsibilities? 

I investigate the companies, governments, and banks that own and fund projects that cause human rights violations so affected communities can use this information to protect their rights through advocacy and/or legal means. I also train civil society actors in Africa, South America, and southeast Asia to lead similar, open-source, investigations and to support communities to take action.

How did you secure this role? 

I had three important things going for me in my application: I had led an investigation into the corporate owner of a harmful project once before for one of IDI’s partner organizations; I had trained civil society actors in two previous jobs; and I had previously collaborated with IDI at an old job. I highlighted the experiences and skills I already had that would be valuable in this role, and the team at IDI knew enough about me and my work from first- and second-hand experience to judge whether I would be a good fit. I have worked for a couple of IDI’s partner organizations as an employee, intern, or consultant, and I believe that helped establish my credibility as an employee and my own commitment to the same values that drive IDI’s work. My references were friends and colleagues that I had worked closely with on relevant issues, and one was the director of IDI’s partner organization I was working for at the time.

What is the most fascinating and/or surprising aspect at your role?

It’s fascinating to work with communities and community-based civil society organizations and help them draw on their own experiences and expertise to fight for their rights. Many of my colleagues are human rights defenders that risk their health and safety to denounce corporations and governments that support projects like mines, or extractive energy projects, when they cause harm to people and the environment. It’s so rewarding to support the work of small civil society organizations that are, I believe, the most meaningful and effective actors for protecting and advancing human rights.

How did your PSIA experience help you with the role? 

I used my time at PSIA to build really practical skills that would help me support communities in vulnerable situations. In courses like Advocacy and Organizing: Theory and Practice, I learned community organizing skills and practiced designing advocacy campaigns around human rights issues. I also learned to document human rights violations, and what to expect when working on human rights in conflict zones or insecure environments. My coursework in international human rights law has helped me understand regional legal frameworks that communities can draw on to hold actors accountable and build advocacy campaigns that are grounded in the law. My PSIA professors also had good relationships with practitioners and were very happy to help me find work in my areas of interest.

What advice would you give to others? 

Identify your strengths and play to them. I wish someone had told me earlier that “networking” is really just about being resourceful with the experiences, expertise, and connections you already have. It’s natural to remember the people you have good relationships with at school, work, or internships and turn to them when you need help or advice in your work. Keep track of organizations you like or think are doing interesting work, and check back frequently to see if they are hiring, or if the organizations they work closely with are hiring. Make a point of talking to your favorite professors or colleagues about your interests, they can help you build skills and will be happy to vouch for you later. Lastly - grad school is a bubble sometimes, so remember to be patient and don’t compare yourself to your classmates. Focus on your own strengths and interests and the positive relationships you have with the people who want to help you succeed.

• More about the Master in Human Rights & Humanitarian Action
• More about the Inclusive Development International