Emma Smith

Emma Smith

For four years, Emma Smith covered careers and recruitment, among other topics, for Devex. She now freelances for Devex and has a special interest in mental health, immigration, and sexual and reproductive health. She holds a degree in journalism from Glasgow Caledonian University and a master’s in media and international conflict.

Latest Articles

Is MrBeast a force for good in development — or a big problem?

Is MrBeast a force for good in development — or a big problem?

3 days ago // Philanthropy

News of the strategic collaboration between MrBeast and The Rockefeller Foundation signals the young YouTuber’s growing influence in modern philanthropy. He has raised hundreds of millions for good causes. But his flashy methods remain controversial, and he risks skewing how a generation perceives aid.

How to navigate the global development job market in 2026

How to navigate the global development job market in 2026

5 days ago // Devex Career Events

During a recent digital event, leading recruitment and career experts discussed how the U.S. funding cuts continue to shape the global development job market and share insights into where demand for expertise is growing.

Post-USAID survey of consultants finds many questioning the path

Post-USAID survey of consultants finds many questioning the path

7 days ago // Career

When his expected work with USAID dried up, one independent consultant went looking for data.

How to use AI in your job search and what mistakes to avoid

How to use AI in your job search and what mistakes to avoid

about 1 month ago // Devex Career Events

Luan Prinsloo, global talent acquisition manager at World Vision, shares how development job seekers can use artificial intelligence to support their job search and how over-reliance on these tools can harm a candidate's chances.

How the development job market in Africa shifted in 2025

How the development job market in Africa shifted in 2025

about 2 months ago // Career

While there were significant development job cuts in Africa this year, professionals in the region could see opportunities in emerging hubs across the continent, particularly around AI and digital skills.

Is it growing harder to find a development role overseas?

Is it growing harder to find a development role overseas?

about 2 months ago // Job board insights

U.S. development professionals might be looking across borders for their next job. Not so fast.

How BD roles have changed in development in 2025

How BD roles have changed in development in 2025

about 2 months ago // Future of work

Business development teams have had to pivot and embrace new structures and approaches.

The roles most affected by aid cuts — and those which aren't

The roles most affected by aid cuts — and those which aren't

2 months ago // Job board insights

The past year has seen rapid shifts in the employment landscape in development. Which roles have been hit the hardest — and which have seen a rise in jobs?

The untapped potential of Africa’s women entrepreneurs

The untapped potential of Africa’s women entrepreneurs

2 months ago // Produced in Partnership with the Mastercard Foundation

Entrepreneurship thrives among African women despite the challenges they face in starting businesses. Targeted investment and inclusive policies to support this group could boost economies and create millions of jobs across the continent.

How will the next generation get into the global development industry?

How will the next generation get into the global development industry?

4 months ago // Career

Sectorwide budget cuts and hiring freezes are shrinking traditional entry points for global development professionals. Meanwhile, AI and the push for localization are reshaping where opportunities do arise.