By Milda Urban, Summersalt yoga founder

Martina is one of those women who radiate confidence. She knows what she wants and goes for it—with the kind of purpose and clarity that feels instantly grounding. A special quality for someone passionate about activism! Her vibrant energy was palpable when she joined us on Vis island for a week of yoga and much-needed relaxation.

Raised in Austria and now based in Vienna, Martina’s background in political science—with a focus on international relations and humanitarian law—shaped her path into activism. She’s been working as a humanitarian for over a decade and is currently responsible for managing South Asia programs for an Austrian NGO, covering Nepal, India, Bangladesh, and parts of Pakistan. Talk about inspiring!

A Journey Rooted in Activism

How long have you been doing this work?

I’ve been with the NGO for more than 10 years. Specifically, I’ve been active in the international humanitarian and development sector for nearly four years. After living and working in the Philippines for a year and a half, I returned to Vienna to manage programs within our Asia department.

How and why did you get into this career? Was it planned or did it just happen?

In truth, most of it just happened. I’m not a big planner when it comes to life. But as the saying goes—nothing truly happens out of the blue. Even when we don’t consciously plan, we’re still participating in the unfolding.

I started working in asylum and migration issues back in 2004. Even then, I was naturally drawn to activism and humanitarian work. I couldn’t imagine joining the corporate world just to make money. Throughout university, I worked various jobs—from restaurants to assisting my international relations professor.

My current role, too, evolved unexpectedly. After years as an executive assistant to the organization’s CEOs, I was offered the chance to work on humanitarian programs in the Philippines after Supertyphoon Haiyan hit in 2013. I took the leap in 2014—at the age of 42—and haven’t looked back since.

What Does a Career Look Like?

What does your job entail?

Right now, I oversee our South Asia programs—mostly Nepal, but also India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Although I’m based in Austria, the job includes frequent travel. My recent work trips have taken me to Nepal, Thailand, Myanmar, and India.

My role involves project and program management: planning, monitoring finances and content, working with local partners, facilitating workshops, overseeing communications, and fundraising. It’s a balance of fieldwork and office life, but it’s the connection to people and real-world impact that keeps me going.

What are the most rewarding parts of the job—and the most difficult?

Travel is by far the most rewarding. I feel fortunate to visit incredible places, meet inspiring people, and witness firsthand the results of our work. Being on the ground, visiting remote project areas, and talking directly with communities brings the essence of activism to life.

The challenge? Office work. The 9-to-5 desk routine is necessary, but not where I thrive. Another challenge is constantly being “on” when traveling—representing your organization and holding responsibility at all times.

The Human Side of International Work

Which projects are you most proud of?

That’s always a hard one. I’m my own toughest critic, and yes—I suffer from impostor syndrome. But one moment that stands out was in the Philippines. After we helped reconstruct basic homes and restored livelihoods through agriculture and livestock, we could see how much it meant to people. Even small actions in activism can lead to meaningful, lasting change.

What have you learned from working in different countries and cultures?

So much. Living and working abroad transforms you in unexpected ways. Reintegrating back into European life isn’t always easy after being immersed in such different environments.

One universal truth I’ve learned: no matter where you go, people want the same things—basic needs met, a safe home, and meaningful relationships. That’s the foundation of activism—understanding and supporting those human desires.

Have you faced challenges as a woman in this line of work?

Interestingly, not many. In our international collaborations, I’m often met with respect. In the Philippines, I met countless strong women leading local NGOs. South Asia, though more male-dominated, has still been open to me as a foreign woman representing a European NGO. I do recognize that the experience would likely be different for local women in the same context.

Advice for Those Drawn to Activism

What does it take to work in a social organization versus the corporate world?

The corporate world often lacks the sense of purpose found in activism and humanitarian work. That said, the trade-off is real—NGO salaries are generally lower, and burnout is a common issue in the sector due to the emotional demands.

My advice? Treat yourself like a professional. Respect the skill and commitment activism requires. Appreciate the rewards, but also protect your boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

How do you balance personal life with such a demanding job?

This remains one of my biggest challenges. The more responsibility I take on, the harder it is to fully disconnect.

While living in Asia, the boundary between work and life blurred, which brought its own benefits and struggles. Finding your rhythm in a new country adds to the complexity of that balance.

Staying Grounded in the Work

How do you unwind? Do you still do yoga?

I try to keep yoga in my routine, though it’s not always consistent. I enjoy guided classes more than self-practice and still love it whenever I do it.

Work travel brings small joys too—like misty rice fields at sunrise or glimpses of the Himalayas on long road trips. Evening chats with colleagues while traveling can also be incredibly grounding.

In Austria, I make a point to take occasional breaks. And for pure rest? Croatia is still my favorite go-to escape.

How Activism Fuels a Life of Purpose

Martina’s story reminds us that activism isn’t always loud or dramatic—it can also look like compassion, commitment, and steady work behind the scenes. Whether traveling to remote villages or fundraising in an office in Vienna, she’s proof that showing up with purpose can change lives.

Her journey is a reflection of what activism can be: consistent, human, humble, and transformative. And perhaps most of all—it shows that it’s never too late to leap toward what moves your heart.

This interview was first published in 2017.