Sustainable development internships in Africa

As an intern on one of these internship programs in Africa, you’ll get great insights into the nonprofit sector. So if you’re interested in learning how to manage a  nonprofit organization, and keen to get the inside perspective on how these function on a day by day basis, these field-based internships are an excellent opportunity. However, the skills you’ll learn are transferable to other sectors as well. So even if you’re planning on a career in the for-profit world, doing an internship with a nonprofit organization in Africa could still be a great move on both a personal and a professional level. 

More than having an extensive amount of work experience, what is looked for are people who are passionate, enthusiastic and strong team players. However, since some internships are centered on specific academic areas, these do require certain skill sets. Be sure to check the requirements of each sustainable development internship above!

The nonprofit teams you can join are small and intimate; this means you’ll have the opportunity to take a lot of responsibility – more than during the average internship offered at larger companies. So it’s important that you embrace this, and that you show confidence in your abilities.

The study of sustainability is nothing without concrete actions. You may be familiar with all that there is to know about circular economy, alternatives to monoculture, women’s rights, giving the vulnerable access to education, environmental law and governance, and many other topics – but putting it into practice is what really matters. Doing a sustainable development internship can be the first step you take in realizing an impactful career in this field. 

Experiencing at first hand the very struggles that African communities face on a daily basis is an eye-opener. Although you may know what’s going on in theory, it’s completely different to see it with your own eyes. Most importantly, along with being a witness to real-life initiatives, you too will be an active part of social change. By putting your skills to the test, and even learning new and valuable abilities, you will get the chance to further your personal and professional growth.

Remote and on site internships both have pros and cons. Ultimately, it depends on your situation, and what works best for you. 

In-person internships in Africa offer you hands-on experience; where you can meet the nonprofit team and community you’ll be assisting face-to-face. Being submerged in a unique environment can be inspiring, adding that extra feeling of fulfillment you crave to tackle your day. It’s a chance to work and live in a completely foreign environment, and make it your own. 

But obviously traveling to Africa for your internship can be challenging on a practical or financial level. (Not to mention COVID-related travel restrictions that make it impossible.) For that reason, you may join your sustainable development internship online. You’ll still get the enriching international work experience, without any logistical or financial burdens.