Digital Marketing Internship at NGO in Cape Town
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain marketing experience while contributing to environmental programs, fostering communication strategies for impactful outreach
Are you a strong communicator and passionate about the environment? We have an exciting Digital Marketing opportunity for you to be part of Greenpop; a dynamic environmental organization based in Cape Town.
This young but fast-growing NGO runs environmental projects in Southern Africa. They also activate large groups of people to get involved in their green mission. With a strong focus on spreading its message, Greenpop has a dedicated communications team that can always do with extra input. During this Digital Marketing Internship in Cape Town, you will be part of an energetic team and gain valuable experience digital fundraising, social media, public relations, and digital marketing – while contributing to a worthwhile cause. This is an ideal opportunity for those looking to apply their marketing and communications skills in the real world and learn from experts in the field.
ORGANIZATION
Greenpop is a nonprofit organization that runs urban greening, reforestation, and eco-education projects. Based in Cape Town, Greenpop plants trees and creates gardens at schools in underprivileged areas and works to regenerate indigenous forests throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. And as part of their mission to encourage a treevolution, the organization has a strong focus on activating people – both Africans and people from around the world – to participate in their projects.
Greenpop is motivated by the vision of a world in which people and nature thrive together. They aim to empower the public to get active (not anxious) about the future of our planet.
Their programs:
- Urban greening: concentrate on planting fynbos gardens and trees in urban spaces and run school-based eco-education workshops in marginalized communities. It also aims to create biodiversity corridors across Cape Town.
- Forest restoration: plants trees, clears alien vegetation, and works with communities to protect indigenous forests, restore degraded forest areas, and increase biodiversity.
- Sustainable development and environmental art projects on an ad hoc basis: these give communities tools to improve their lives while effectively managing their natural resources and create public art and music which brings awareness to local environmental issues.
- Events: experiential and educational events. Think of interactive educational workshops on a variety of environmental, entrepreneurial and leadership topics for school groups, corporate teams and the general public. They aim to equip people with the skills they need to get active (not anxious) about the future of our planet.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Greenpop is an active organization that puts large emphasis on reaching large audiences with its message. This involves strong communication efforts with different groups of people; project beneficiaries, (potential) funders, volunteers, interns, partners, stakeholders and anyone interested in sustainability and greening. As a Digital Marketing intern in Greenpop’s Communications Department, you can be part of these efforts.
In this internship, there is no physical office, as the team in Cape Town operates on a hybrid work model. As an intern, you will spend two days per week in-person, which includes 1.5 days working directly with your supervisor and a half-day at the Greenpop Nursery. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in Garden Days or other events happening while you’re on the ground. The remaining three days each week will be spent working remotely.
Responsibilities
- Content creation and copywriting for social media and the Greenpop blog.
- Community management for social media – fostering an engaged online community and interacting with them in a way that leads to conversions and donations.
- Digital fundraising – assist with the development and implementation of online fundraising campaigns.
- Donor communications – sharing project stories and updates with our supporters and online community.
- Media & PR – writing press releases and sending out media updates to media outlets.
- Social media content updates from the field.
- Supporting marketing and fundraising activations at events.
- Assisting the Communications & Marketing Manager with admin-related tasks.
- All interns at Greenpop assist with office support, workshops, plant days, and eco-hub open days.
The ideal times for interns to join are from February through May, with a strong preference for those who can be in Cape Town during the lead-up to the annual Reforest Fest, held over Easter weekend. Interns are expected to attend this event and actively participate as a volunteer. August through September is also a key period, particularly for those interested in contributing to Arbour Day activities.
Requirements
- Strong English written and verbal communication skills
- Experience or interest in Digital Marketing & Communications
- Social media knowledge / exposure is essential
- Other useful skills: photography, videography, graphic design, exposure to Canva
- Commitment of 30 hours per week
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As part of the application process, candidates are required to submit a portfolio with writing samples
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
As an intern in Cape Town, you’ll have the choice between three different accommodations. With dorm and single room options, you can opt for the lodging option that meets your needs and budget. All locations include Wifi, linens & towels, communal areas, shared facilities, 24/7 security, laundry services, and housekeeping. Each option is conveniently located to be walking distance from various shops, cafes, restaurants, and some of the touristy highlights Cape Town has to offer as well. You’ll have the opportunity to meet a variety of travelers, including students & backpackers, and explore the wonders of the city – while being based in the heart of it all.
Safety & Support
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/dangerous areas & streets that are nearby. 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
Communication
Your accommodation will include free Wifi to keep family and friends up to date via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc. Most cafes/restaurants also offer free Wifi for remote work days and staying online. You can also consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked for international carrier, or setting your phone’s status to roaming (be aware of high charges for this option).
Meals
Meals
Meals are NOT included at the accommodation options in Cape Town. The kitchen facilities vary at each location and details will be provided during the application process. With a variety of international cuisine options available in the area and throughout Cape Town, there is no shortage of restaurants, bars, and cafes to try out.
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
Start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed during the application process. Please keep in mind Greenpop is closed for two weeks of holiday at the end of the year.
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
12 weeks USD 2,444
16 weeks USD 2,962
20 weeks USD 3,481
Remote internship: USD 595
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
REVIEWS
“During my internship I was responsible for the program communications, blog posts and the newsletters. It's a small organization so I was able to be involved in a lot of things and have some responsibility. Shortly after I started, they launched their new program, Fynbos for the Future where they plant Fynbos gardens with outdoor classrooms at schools in Cape Town. I was part of the school selection process and set up the ten school profiles for the website. When we had the first planting day at one of the schools, it was amazing to see all the hard work that the team put into this program pay off.”
Hanna, The NetherlandsDigital Marketing Internship, Cape Town
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain practical experience in community management, digital marketing, and social media marketing
- Contribute to a charity on a mission to plant trees, green communities and empower environmental stewards across Sub-Saharan Africa
- Develop your networking, strategic communications, and research skills
- Gain a full insight in the day to day running of a nonprofit organisation
- Live and work in Cape Town, arguably one of the most stunning cities in the world
- Enjoy exploring South Africa’s many highlights during your time off
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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