If you’re looking to pursue a career in sustainable development, it may be more accessible than you think, especially compared with some traditional global development paths. “The key is not necessarily about degrees — it is about working in the sector and building experience,” said Lubna Sayed Qadri, who began her corporate career as a bioengineer.
As a leader in sustainable development and conservation working at the intersection of climate action and human rights, Qadri liaises with diverse partners to develop advice on addressing the Sustainable Development Goals through philanthropy and investment across Africa and India.
She’s held various development roles over her career, including executive director of the School for Rural Development and Environment in India and the PVBLIC Foundation’s global program director. Qadri is currently based in New Delhi, India, and serves as an SDG advisor with Thinking Philanthropy and an international council member and director for Peace Brigades International.
About the author
Katrina J. Lane
Katrina Lane is an Editorial Strategist and Reporter at Devex. She writes on ecologies and social inclusion, and also supports the creation of partnership content at Devex. She holds a degree in Psychology from Warwick University, offering a unique perspective on the cognitive frameworks and social factors that influence responses to global issues.
