At the end of the Lent Term the DESTIN Society, the student society associated with the department of International Development, held their 7th Annual Industry Dinner. The aim of the evening was to promote dialogue between students, academics and professionals outside of the classroom. The event was held on a dinner cruise along the Thames, as 150 top-level NGO professionals, consultants, researchers, and students networked with each other and enjoyed the evening views.
Dr. Duncan Green, Professor in Practice at the LSE and Head of Research for Oxfam GB, welcomed guests, and the Keynote Speaker, David Loyn. David is a former BBC International Development Correspondent for the BBC with over 30 years of experience in developing countries and conflict zones. He spoke about the tumultuous relationship between aid and military force, particularly in Afghanistan. Post-conflict interventions are a growing concern in the development sector as aid becomes increasingly securitised.
During the evening students were able to mingle with professionals from a range of organisations including: the International Committee of the Red Cross, Integrity, International Alert, Save the Children, Coffey International, ODI, and Christian Aid. It was great to have guests from not only a range of organisations but from around the world as well. Eliana Harrigan, an LSE MSc International Development and Humanitarian Emergencies student, said, “Everything about the evening was fantastic: from the opportunity to network with professionals from various sectors to the great company of my fellow coursemates. I would recommend the dinner to anyone!” Jasna Šelih, an LSE Development Management student, said, “The representative from ODI at our table was fascinating. It was great to have the chance to dialogue with him.”
The DESTIN Committee would like to thank David Loyn for speaking and all the Industry Guests who attended. It was a successful evening of dialogue, networking, and the promotion of a community of people who are passionate about development work. Myfanwy James, an LSE MSc International Development and Humanitarian Emergencies student, said, “The industry dinner was a fantastic opportunity to meet a variety of individuals from the humanitarian and development sectors and learn about their experiences in a relaxed environment. It was a real success.”
Caroline Noland – DESTIN Society
For more information about the DESTIN Society please visit their Facebook page
