Why Maikel left the corporate world for ZOA: 'As a Christian I want to stand with others'

Leaving a successful career in accountancy to join a humanitarian organisation is not a common choice. But for Maikel Abdelmalek, it was exactly the right one: "As a Christian, I believe we’re called to be there for others."

15 January 2026

Internal auditor

Today, Maikel works as an Internal Auditor at ZOA, a role that allows him to look behind the scenes of our country programmes. He reviews processes, checks whether projects run effectively, and ensures that funds are used responsibly and transparently. But for Maikel, the work goes far beyond ticking boxes. It's a way for him to use his professional skills for a greater purpose: helping people affected by war and disasters. "Everything you do for others, you do for God, as it says in Matthew."

A shift in values

After eight years of study and a promising career at major accountancy firms, Maikel realised something was missing. It wasn’t dissatisfaction with his profession, but a longing for purpose. "I wanted my work to align with serving others and making a difference," he explains. "At ZOA I see how our work helps people directly. That gives me energy."

Understanding the context

Maikel’s job takes him to ZOA country offices around the world. His responsibility is not only to assess systems, but to understand the context in which people work. “We review everything from emergency distributions to water systems and reconstruction projects, including in places like Ukraine. I’ve been to several African countries so far, and soon I’ll travel to Ukraine and the Middle East.”

Such visits require careful planning. Winter in Ukraine, he notes, will be a challenge: "Temperatures can drop to -20°C, and travelling becomes difficult. But speaking with staff and communities face-to-face is essential."

Those conversations, he says, are where real learning happens. "If you can help improve how we work, even in a small way, that’s incredibly fulfilling."

A step forward

Some might see leaving the corporate world as giving up opportunities, but Maikel sees it differently. To him, it's a step in the right direction. He now uses his professional expertise in a way that aligns deeply with his values. "I work for an organisation that exists for people in need. That makes my work meaningful."

Interested in joining ZOA? Explore current opportunities on our careers page

Photography by Michel ter Wolbeek