Kendall Spence

MA Humanitarianism and Conflict Response (2024).

I most valued HCRI’s interdisciplinary approach and the course’s ability to combine academic rigour with a learning approach that was grounded in historical context, contemporary situations, and ethics. The modules I took – from ‘economics, peace and conflict,’ to ‘armed groups and humanitarian aid’ – allowed me to deepen my knowledge while consistently engaging in critical reflection on humanitarian practice throughout.

A highlight of my time at HCRI was a research visit to Uganda, which sparked a lasting interest in the political economies that arise in complex humanitarian and conflict environments. Truly unique to HCRI is its international network and the diversity of background and experiences that make up every cohort, which enriches every debate and discussion.

Since graduating, I have been an intern with Chatham House’s Africa Programme and am now Programme Coordinator in its Global Economy and Finance Programme. In the coming year, my work will focus on convening high-level events and discussions with governments, NGOs, the private sector, academia, and beyond, as well as overseeing research on issues such as the developmental implications of US tariff regimes across emerging markets, innovative fiscal solutions for climate financing, and mechanisms for ensuring that critical mineral supply chains deliver value to local economies and communities.