GENDER EQUALITY INTERNSHIP IN CAPE TOWN

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

HELP SHAPE AND DEVELOP PROGRAMS, SYSTEMS, AND NETWORK OF THIS START-UP NONPROFIT

Here’s an opportunity to join a start-up organisation that’s addressing an important issue; gender based violence in Cape Town, South Africa. Gender based violence is a widespread issue in Cape Town, and victims are often left without the necessary support.

As an intern on this gender equality internship, you’ll be part of a nonprofit organization that is working on an innovative app that will give women and children an easy-to-use tool. Kwanele will give access to emergency help, build a community of support, and provide resources to use in order to get justice for victims.

This internship suits someone who thrives in a start-up environment, is happy to tackle a variety of tasks, and is passionate about women’s empowerment. It’s a unique opportunity to play a large part in shaping this organization and helping it get off the ground in a successful way. You’ll gain a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector, and you’ll see tangible results of your work.

You can do this internship remotely, or, if the situation allows, on the ground in Cape Town. If you’re interested in discussing the different options, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

ORGANIZATION

You’ll be part of Kwanele, a start-up nonprofit organization that works to support women who are the victim of gender-based violence, an issue that is prevalent throughout many of Cape Town’s communities. Kwanele is currently developing an app to support victims of gender-based violence. The benefits of an app like this will include:

  • Providing trauma support to girls and women who are abuse victims
  • Developing GBV-training for outreach workers, so that they can provide support and guidance throughout different communities of Cape Town. This assures that each emergency call to the “Kwanele Champions” will be attended by a GBV-trained professional
  • Providing legal support to abuse victims, which can include court preparations, legal advice, and logistical support to ensure women can get to court houses
  • Tracking GBV cases, in order to increase the number of cases being reported and individuals accessing help
  • Doing research into trends around gender based violence, and using data and strategic partnerships to support family restoration, both for the victim and the perpetrator

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

As an intern on this gender equality internship in Cape Town, you’ll play a vital role in the developments of this important initiative. Kwanele is in its early stages and provides an exciting opportunity for interns to help shape and develop its programs, systems, and network. You’ll be a large part of a small team, and you can expect to have wide-ranging and varied tasks.

Responsibilities

Depending on your skills and experience, they will include the following;

  • Doing research into gender based violence issues in Cape Town and its surroundings
  • Helping create an overall communications strategy
  • Assisting with website development
  • Managing social media channels
  • Assisting with programs on the ground
  • Doing fundraising research
  • Applying for grants and writing corporate funding proposals

Requirements

  • Some experience with digital marketing / communications
  • A passion for gender equality issues
  • An ability to work independently and take initiative
  • A willingness to take on a variety of tasks
  • Experience with fundraising or working in the nonprofit sector would be beneficial

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

You’ll be staying at The Lenox, a comfortable guesthouse in the heart of Cape Town. Built in the old Cape Dutch style, The Lenox is characterful and historic. It has multiple balconies, a large dining room, and many other communal spaces. Shared bedrooms include 2 twin beds, and there are plenty of single rooms available as well (at an extra fee). You’ll be walking distance from many shops, cafes, restaurants, and some of the touristy highlights Cape Town has to offer as well.

Safety & Support

Safety & Support

Be sure to prioritize hydration in the summer to avoid heatstroke. South Africa does have high crime rates, so it’s important to be aware and use common sense to stay safe. Some safety guidelines are to always walk in groups, take a taxi/Uber in the evenings, know safe/dangerous areas, secure your belongings, don’t walk around with large sums of cash (you can pay everything with a card), minimize wearing flashy accessories, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers.

Communication

Communication

The accommodation offers free Wi-Fi to keep family and friends up to date via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc. Cafes/restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi. You can also consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked, or setting your phone’s status to roaming, depending on your provider’s rates.

Meals

Meals

A simple breakfast, lunch and a delicious cooked dinner (vegetarian & vegan options available) from Monday to Friday are included in your fee. Indulge in local dishes, like bobotie and South African Braai! For desserts, don’t miss out on milk tarts and malva pudding. There is a diverse food scene in Cape Town, so no matter your cuisine preference or dietary restrictions you’ll have plenty of options. Let us know in advance if you have any allergies/dietary needs.

Location details

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

Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.

You can start your internship with this organization every week. Please keep in mind this organization is closed for several weeks of summer holiday at the end of the year.

What you\'ll pay (2024 rates)

8 WEEKS USD 1,817

12 WEEKS USD 2,321

16 WEEKS USD 2,797

20 WEEKS USD 3,273

26 WEEKS USD 3,987

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 shared room (2 pax). If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
  • Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
  • Meals from Monday to Friday
  • 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
  • Transport to the office
  • Meals during weekends
  • Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
  • Costs for additional excursions or activities
SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDING

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 OR Remote
PROJECT FOCUS : Gender Equality
TASK FOCUS: Research, Communications, Fundraising, Program Development
LENGTH: Min. 8 weeks
COST: From USD 1,817

REVIEWS

“I've thoroughly enjoyed my internship with Kwanele and I am extremely grateful for the opportunities it has given me and the range of skills that I have learnt. As the marketing intern, each day is exciting and different and it has been highly rewarding to see the impact of my work as we continue to grow on social media.

Though my internship has drawn to a close, I will be continuing to work for Kwanele part-time during my final year of university. Thank you to Roots helping me find the internship that best suited my goals and skillset, and Leonora, my supervisor and founder of Kwanele, who has been incredibly supportive and amazing to work with!”

ChelseyUnited Kingdom, remote gender equality internship
READ MORE REVIEWS

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Contribute to a program that supports victims of gender based violence, a prevalent issue in South Africa
  • Be part of a start-up project, which will allow you to take on a large role and really make your mark
  • Gain a thorough understanding of the nonprofit sector in South Africa
  • Either live and work in Cape Town – or work remotely, from the comfort of your own home
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.

GET STARTED

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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