... maybe try some pro bono work for small NGOs. Usually these places are
crying out for services but cant afford them , but at the same time can give
you excellent cred. - and can be willing to do a "sponsored by" or write a
review, or be there to speak to prospective clients

I think you should talk to the people you know, get the word out. Even if
that doesn't get you a contract immediately, you never know when something
shows up.
Then, advertise locally. There are a lot of IT businesses outsourcing work.
Your key advantage if you go for local contracts is that you can meet up for
face to face meetings, you can stay close to your clients, communicate
better. Perhaps contact some of the companies you worked for in the past, ask
them if they're interested in outsourcing locally some functions.
Write a technical blog focusing on the areas you cover (technical solutions,
rather than low level solutions to puzzles). This is again an investment in
the future, rather than something that will yield results immediately.

Best place in my experience is via alumni of ex university/school/college or
colleagues of parents, uncles etc.

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