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Gender Based Violence Research Internship in Cape Town
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain varied research experience while contributing to an important cause
Bring your research skills to a nonprofit organization that’s providing vital support to victims of gender based violence in Cape Town, South Africa. It’s an excellent opportunity to contribute to this important cause while gaining a wealth of practical experience.
Gender based violence is a prevalent problem in South African society. You’ll join a nonprofit that addresses the issue in a multi-faceted way; they offer empowering counseling programs to victims, and work to break the cycle of abuse by tackling cultural attitudes. The organization has been running for over 25 years, and has a strong track record of creating change.
As a GBV Research intern, you’ll support this work by doing research on a number of levels. Depending on your interests and the needs at the time, you might be doing issue-based research, impact analysis, and funding research. Either way, you’ll have a hugely educational and inspiring experience.
ORGANIZATION
You’ll be part of MOSAIC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting gender based violence and providing support to victims. Gender-based violence (GBV) is a profound and widespread problem in South Africa, affecting a vast number of girls and women. This organization was founded in 1993 in response to the amount of violence and abuse, and the lack of social support services and legal support available to most victims. Their programs include trauma counseling, emergency support, educational workshops, public awareness campaigns, and legal support. They aim to guide female GBV survivors through a healing process, and to empower them to become active drivers of change in their lives. The nonprofit also strives to break the cycle of violence in society by changing attitudes about gender norms, and encouraging a culture of respect.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Responsibilities
As a Gender Based Violence Research intern, you’ll be focused on different types of research. The exact focus will depend on your skills & interests and on the organization’s needs at the time, but they are likely to include;
- Issue-focused research
- Impact evaluation
- Fundraising research
- Possibly report writing tasks
Requirements
- Strong research skills
- Excellent verbal and written English communication skills
- A passion for the issue MOSAIC is addressing
- Awareness of the sensitivity of this topic and able to maintain a sense of confidentiality
- Willingness to working in a culturally different environment
- A self-starter attitude and ability to work independently
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
During this internship, you’ll stay in safe, secure, and fully furnished co-living spaces that offer both comfort and community. The accommodations are designed to ensure your well-being, with regular cleaning services and a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere. You’ll have access to fully-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, making daily life easy and convenient. You’ll also have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, building friendships with fellow residents who share similar interests. The specific lodging will be based on availability during your desired internship dates and your budget – you’ll then be provided with more details on the exact unit you’ll be staying in.
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. During your placement, you’ll have access to the Roots team remotely, along with your internship supervisor on the ground.
South Africa does have high crime rates, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Safety recommendations include: do not walk anywhere alone and do not walk anywhere at night – it’s better to Uber, no matter the distance, even if you are in a group. Upon arrival, ask your accommodation about the safe & populated areas & streets that are nearby, and which areas to avoid. Keep your belongings close to you (avoid using handbags), always keep an eye on your drinks when out socializing, don’t walk around with large sums of cash (you can pay for everything with a card), minimize wearing flashy accessories, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers. Take extra precautions at night by staying in a group and always taking an Uber once the sun goes down.
Communication
Your accommodation includes free Wifi to stay in touch with family and friends while in Cape Town. Most cafes/restaurants also offer free Wifi for remote work days and staying online. You can consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked for international carriers, or setting your phone’s status to roaming (be aware of high charges for this option).
Meals
Meals are NOT included during your internship in Cape Town. You will have access to a fully-equipped shared kitchen with modern appliances that includes everything you need to cook meals throughout your stay. Additionally, there are a wide variety of international cuisines options around Cape Town and plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants to try out in the neighborhood.
Location Details
Discover Cape Town’s attractions: Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens, city tours, historical sites, and the Cape Point Peninsula. There are also opportunities to surf, kayak, paraglide, cage dive with sharks, and more! Cape Town has a mediterranean climate with cool winters and hot summers so be sure to check what the temperature will be like during your stay.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
You can start your internship with this organization every week. Please keep in mind this organization is closed for several weeks at the end of the year for the holiday season.
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
12 weeks USD 3,295
16 weeks USD 4,072
20 weeks USD 4,848
24 weeks USD 5,625
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a mixed-gender dorm room (up to 6 pax). If you prefer a smaller dorm size, female-only dorm, or single room – please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Wifi access
- Housekeeping service
- Assistance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Supervision and support during your stay
- Regular check-ins during your internship with your supervisor
- Troubleshooting if needed
- A reference letter at the end of your internship
- A discount on weekend activities, exclusive to Roots Interns
Exclusions
- Flights to Cape Town International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Meals
- Transport to the office
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
GALLERY
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.
What can I expect from a NGO internship in South Africa?
During your internship in South Africa you can expect to meet people from around the world, as well as indulging yourself into the culture of this beautiful country! If you want to know more about what to expect, make sure to check out our top 7 reasons for an internship in Cape Town.
Will I have time to explore South Africa during my internship?
Yes! We partner with various activity organizers that can offer discounts exclusive to Roots Interns, for example, a road trip through the Garden Route and bungee jumping off the world’s largest natural bungee. You may also explore the country on your own and we are happy to give recommendations.
Am I able to do an internship while on a study program in Cape Town?
Yes! You are able to do a part-time internship with certain organizations so that you can continue your studies, while also gaining valuable work experience.
Will I receive a stipend of any kind during my internship with Roots?
Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, your internship will be unpaid, but there are many ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that are invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Cape Town, South Africa
PROGRAM FOCUS: Gender-Based Violence NGO
TASK FOCUS: Research, Reporting, Monitoring
LENGTH: Min. 12 Weeks
COST: From USD 3,295
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain a wealth of research experience in a nonprofit setting
- Be part of a well-established nonprofit organization, and gain a good understanding of the day to day running of their programs
- Contribute to important support to victims of gender based violence
- Live and work in Cape Town, arguably one of the greatest cities in the world
- Have the flexibility of working remotely, if you prefer
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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