Staff share what they love about working at BRAC USA
Hear from BRAC USA staff about what it’s like to be a part of the team.
By Josephine Thornton
BRAC works to empower people living in poverty, and our team has a big vision for big change. We strive to create a world where every person can realize their own potential — and that starts here, with our staff. We have asked members of the BRAC USA team to share their experiences working for the #1 NGO dedicated to ending poverty. Join us!
Anand Sridharan | Program Manager, Health, Business Development
“Working at BRAC USA over the last year has been a wonderful experience. Despite the challenges of starting my job at BRAC remotely, I have felt welcomed and included by all of my colleagues, and I genuinely feel like I’m part of the team. Everyone I have had the pleasure of working with, from senior leadership team members to interns, is exceptionally thoughtful and embodies our core values daily. Having the opportunity to support BRAC’s innovative programs on the ground is both incredibly inspiring and rewarding. In this fast-paced work environment, it’s great to know I have an amazing group of colleagues to support me in reaching our collective goals as an organization.”
Bobby Irven | Communications Manager, Ultra-Poor Graduation Initiative
“Some of my favorite memories are the team meals shared after a long day in the field with colleagues from various countries and partner offices. Days are long, and stress can be high, but at the end of the day, finding commonalities, making jokes, and learning more about our vastly different backgrounds is so rewarding and fun. These are the connections and interactions that will stay in my memory forever.”
Jess Hagler | Coordinator
“From my time as an intern to becoming a full-fledged member of the BRAC USA team, I have felt constantly supported, welcomed, and engaged. In speaking with my peers in other industries and at other organizations, I have learned how unique my experience at BRAC has been — diving into deeply meaningful work so early in my career. I am very grateful for the trust that BRAC USA has placed in me and helping me rise to the challenge of working to make the world a better place. I am excited to continue to learn and grow with BRAC.”
Ashley Toombs | Director of External Affairs
“I am incredibly grateful to have worked at BRAC for over five years. Given the breadth and scope of BRAC’s work, I learn something new and am challenged by our work every day – which allows me to constantly grow professionally and become a stronger advocate for people living in poverty and empower the communities we serve. Colleagues at BRAC USA and across the world are the most dedicated professionals with whom I have ever had the opportunity to work. They bring an amazing mix of deep commitment to mission, coupled with genuine care and a sense of humor.”
Elaina Conrad | Communications Associate, Ultra-Poor Graduation Initiative
“Over the last four months, my experience with BRAC has been engaging and rewarding. The diverse projects in our portfolio provide me with opportunities to develop and exercise new skills while using my past experiences to generate meaningful, visible results. Whether we are reviewing research, planning strategies, or assisting in partner relations, I never have a dull moment! The whole team has been so supportive and welcoming, especially with the additional challenges of remote onboarding and work from home, and it truly feels like a place where I am encouraged to grow both professionally and personally.”
Donella Rapier | President and CEO
“I am often asked what I enjoy most about BRAC USA, and what makes it special. Without hesitation, I always say it’s a remarkable team. We are able to attract an incredibly talented group of people, all devoted to helping people suffering from poverty —helping them build sustainable livelihoods for themselves, and strengthening their communities. As the North American affiliate, we have the advantage of being an integral part of the broader BRAC global family, while also having the independence and autonomy to be innovative and entrepreneurial in our approach, and foster our own unique culture and sense of team. Whether you decide to apply for a role or not, whether you come to work at BRAC USA or not, I hope you will join us in our quest to make this a more equitable world, where everyone has the opportunity to realize their potential.”
Josephine Thornton is a Communications Intern at BRAC USA.