Unless you have a genuine interest in international development work, it can be difficult to understand what motivates someone to take on such a demanding and often risky role. What makes people leave the comfort of home to work in conflict zones, disaster areas, or impoverished regions around the world?

While everyone has their own reasons, aid workers are often described using four light-hearted but insightful categories. Of course, many individuals don’t fall into just one group — but these types help shed light on the different personalities drawn to this challenging field.

The missionary

Historically, missionaries travelled the world to spread religious beliefs and provide help to those in need. Today, while many large international development organisations may still have religious roots, most modern aid workers with a missionary mindset are not there to preach. Instead, they are driven by a deep desire to help others, often volunteering their time to improve lives and support communities in crisis. The term now reflects a sense of purpose rather than religious affiliation.

Missionary types often form the moral backbone of a team. They’re often the ones who quietly go the extra mile, spending evenings mentoring local workers or advocating for those without a voice. Their passion and sense of justice keep long-term projects grounded in compassion.

The mercenary

The label may sound harsh, but this group includes highly skilled professionals who bring experience, leadership, and practical know-how to international projects. These are career development workers, often on paid contracts, who take on long-term roles in challenging environments. Their presence ensures structure, accountability, and continuity.

They may be engineers, doctors, project managers, or security specialists — and they’re essential. While some may question the ethics of being paid for aid work, the reality is that the sector depends on professional input as much as on voluntary support. Mercenaries provide the expertise that allows projects to succeed on a larger scale, bringing consistency and technical skills that are hard to replace.

The misfit

Not everyone follows a traditional career path. Some people feel out of place in conventional work environments and are drawn to the variety and challenge of international development. The ‘misfit’ may not conform to societal norms, but their adaptability, resilience, and independence often make them valuable assets in unpredictable field settings.

They might feel stifled in office jobs or uninspired by routine. In the field, however, their creativity, flexibility, and non-linear thinking shine. Misfits often thrive in remote or chaotic settings where others might struggle, making them critical to problem-solving and on-the-spot innovation.

The broken-hearted

Personal upheaval often prompts people to seek change. Whether it’s a relationship breakdown, bereavement, or burnout, some individuals turn to international development as a way to reset and find new meaning. Helping others during a time of personal struggle can be deeply rewarding and healing.

Though the term ‘broken-hearted’ may seem dismissive, these individuals often become some of the most dedicated and empathetic workers. Their lived experiences allow them to connect deeply with the communities they serve, and their commitment can bring a quiet strength to their team.

Some go on to build lifelong careers in the sector. Others use the experience as a stepping stone to rebuild confidence or gain new direction. Either way, their motivations often lead to real impact.

The importance of motivation

Whether you’re a missionary, mercenary, misfit, or broken-hearted, success in international development hinges on motivation. The work can be demanding, both physically and emotionally, and often requires adapting to unfamiliar environments and living without many modern comforts. A strong internal drive is essential.

International development work can involve roles as varied as:

• Doctors/nurses
• IT experts
• Logistics/transport
• Project management
• Infrastructure development
• Teaching
• Fundraising
• Back-office staff
• Traditional media
• Social media
• Brand awareness
• Relief aid workers

It’s not just about fieldwork in remote locations; back-office roles, fundraising, and digital outreach are just as critical to the success of aid efforts. Every link in the chain matters. If one part fails, projects can stall and lives may be at risk. In fact, many successful humanitarian programmes rely on a seamless flow between those delivering services and those supporting them behind the scenes.

Planting seeds for the future

While emergency aid such as food drops or shelter dominates media coverage, much of international development is about long-term impact. That means empowering communities to support themselves sustainably. Sustainable development builds resilience, promotes independence, and reduces reliance on external aid over time.

Education

Investing in education helps break the cycle of poverty and opens up opportunities for future generations. From basic literacy and numeracy to vocational training, education can transform not just individuals but entire communities. Aid workers involved in education may train teachers, build schools, or deliver remote learning tools where access is limited.

Adapting food crops

Access to clean water is still a major challenge in many parts of the world. Simple solutions like building wells or water tanks can transform villages. Teaching farmers to grow resilient crops suited to changing climates also helps ensure long-term food supply.

In emergencies, aid may involve food parcels and water deliveries, but the long-term goal is always sustainability — through education, improved agricultural practices, and climate adaptation.

Infrastructure

Reliable roads and transport links connect communities, enable trade, and provide access to healthcare and education. Infrastructure projects often employ local workers, boosting the economy while building something lasting.

Whether it’s a bridge in a flood-prone area or solar-powered street lighting in a refugee camp, infrastructure improves quality of life and opens doors for development.

To conclude –

International development work is about helping others to help themselves. From emergency relief to long-term planning, every role contributes to a bigger mission. Aid workers come from all walks of life and bring their own motivations, skills, and life experiences to the job.

Whether you’re on the ground or supporting from home, each contribution is vital to making lasting change. And while motivations may differ — be it faith, skill, circumstance, or a desire for reinvention — they all matter.

If you’re considering career opportunities in this field, ask yourself: what’s your motivation?

Your answer could be the beginning of a journey that not only changes others’ lives, but your own as well.