This week, we went all the way to Norway to hear from Csilla Czimbalmos, Project Manager for the Norwegian Helsinki Committee. Hear why she thinks ignorance is the greatest challenge that she experiences in her role with Human Rights Education!
Why have you chosen to work in the education sector?
I chose to work in the education sector after experiencing life as an immigrant in a society that likes to believe about itself that it is open, but still holds some doors closed. I did find the keys to some of these doors and I wanted to share these keys with others who were in a similar situation to mine. The best way to do this was through education.
Through the years, the focus of my educational projects has widened.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
It is the fact of knowing that what I do has a direct impact on somebody else’s life and situation. It sounds like a cliché, but it is actually true.
What is the greatest challenge that you encounter within your role?
Ignorance. Being involved in human rights education projects, the biggest challenge is facing authorities in some countries that live in complete ignorance of what it means to respect basic human rights.
What do you think attracts people across industries to work in education?
I believe it is the possibility that education offers to actually work with knowledge. Knowledge is power, we often hear this. But what is more important I think, is what we actually do with this power; that is where the possibilities of power lie.
What misconceptions do you think people have when considering a career in this sector?
That education strictly refers to schooling.
If you could change our sector in just one way, what would that look like?
Change the traditional way of thinking about education that is prevalent in so many places. Educational policies are often outdated and do not reflect the developments that have happened in our societies in the last decades.
Reflecting on your role and the impact it has, is there anything that you find you appreciate more now than before?
The role my family had in my education.
What’s one thing you would want to tell to those applying for a job in the education sector?
Start with the assumption that you can change the entire world.
…and…finally:
What is your favourite apple-inspired food?
My grandmother’s apple pie.
Csilla, we are so grateful for your contribution – thank you for your sharing your perspective!
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