This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a powerful conversation with Mike Brand, a leader in atrocity prevention and human rights advocacy. As the final episode of 2024, this discussion dives deep into careers at the intersection of peacebuilding, advocacy, and strategic change-making.
Mike brings years of expertise, having worked across the U.S., Rwanda, South Sudan, and other conflict zones. He has supported civil society organizations with strategic planning, program development, and policy advocacy. Currently, Mike teaches mass atrocity prevention at Georgetown University and the University of Connecticut.
Why Listen to This Episode?
- Career Advice for Changemakers
Mike offers practical tips for navigating careers in advocacy, human rights, and peacebuilding. Whether you're just starting or looking to pivot, his insights can help you identify the right path and build meaningful connections. - From Medical Aspirations to Advocacy Leadership
Learn how Mike transitioned from aspiring to join Doctors Without Borders to becoming a leader in atrocity prevention, fueled by personal experiences and a deep sense of purpose. - Insights into Advocacy
Discover the many layers of advocacy work, from grassroots organizing to influencing policymakers in Washington, D.C., and beyond. - Navigating Complex Challenges
Hear Mike's perspective on working with civil society in high-risk zones and addressing ethical dilemmas in funding and program implementation. - Optimism Amid Darkness
Despite the challenges of atrocity prevention, Mike shares how hope and idealism remain central to driving positive change.
Bio:
Mike Brand is a human rights, atrocities prevention, and peacebuilding professional with experience in policy, advocacy, organizing, and education. Throughout his career, Mike has worked for various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the United States, Rwanda, and South Sudan, and has done fieldwork in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. Mike supports civil society organizations and diaspora networks in strategic planning, program development, and achieving their advocacy and organizing objectives. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, national and international publications, and has been quoted in international news outlets as an expert in his field. Mike is also an Adjunct Professor of mass atrocities prevention and human rights at Georgetown University and the University of Connecticut. He holds a Master of Arts in International Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University, with a concentration in human rights and atrocities prevention, and Bachelors of Arts in History and Political Science with a minor in human rights from the University of Connecticut.
Resources
- Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA): A non-profit organization of Sudanese-American medical professionals providing humanitarian aid and healthcare services in Sudan. Visit SAPA
- Rotary Peace Fellowship: Offers fully funded fellowships for dedicated leaders to study at Rotary Peace Centers, focusing on peace and development issues. Learn more about Rotary Peace Fellowship
- Scoville Peace Fellowship: Provides recent college and graduate school alumni with the opportunity to work with organizations in Washington, D.C., on international peace and security issues. Discover the Scoville Fellowship
- International Crisis Group: An independent organization working to prevent wars and shape policies that will build a more peaceful world. Explore the International Crisis Group
- Global Dispatches Podcast: Hosted by Mark Leon Goldberg, this podcast offers insights into foreign policy, geopolitics, sustainable development, and the United Nations. Listen to Global Dispatches
PCDN Resources
- PCDN Free Weekly Impact Newsletter: Explore global social impact jobs, funding, and opportunities. Sign up here
- Social Change Career Podcast: Access over 170 episodes featuring changemakers worldwide. Available at https://pcdn.global/listen or any major podcast platform.
