An internship gives you insight into your dream career and industry and helps grow your practical knowledge while also giving you a competitive edge over your peers. It is an exciting time for young graduates as they finally get a sneak peek into the world of work and industry.
If you’re keen to do an internship abroad with Roots, it’s worth considering South Africa as your destination. It’s one of the world’s best destinations for safaris, with metropolitan cities as well as colourful traditional tribes, and its natural beauty is both striking and diverse. It has been a hugely popular travel destination for decades. For everything you need to know about internships in South Africa, including tips, opportunities, and insights, continue reading below.
6 Things to Know Before Traveling to South Africa for an Internship
Looking for a truly meaningful experience in South Africa? This is a country that offers a unique and colourful combination of cultures, cuisines, geography, sights and people – all gelling together to create the Rainbow Nation. However, as with all countries, there are a number of things that you should know before you book your ticket. So, without further adieu, here are 10 savvy South African pieces of knowledge to prepare you for your next adventure.
1. Start with the Right Mindset
It’s imperative to start your internship with the right mindset and attitude. Always be prepared and know what you need to do to succeed, as you never know what to expect. This could elevate you for success or deter you from taking the next step. Be grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow, and see it as a “work in progress level” in your career.
2. South African English Takes Some Getting Used to
While there are 11 official languages in South Africa, you’ll almost always find someone who speaks English, unless you’re in a remote rural area. For everything you need to know about internships in South Africa, this is an important one! There will be a few local phrases that trip you up. One thing that often baffles foreigners is the (extremely liberal) use of the word “shame.” It’s a versatile word in South Africa. A cute child fell asleep in the car? Shame. A close family member passed away? Shame. Busy week at the office, meaning you couldn’t make Friday drinks? Shame. The word is often preceded by the utterance “ag” and followed by the word “man.” So the phrase “Ag, shame man” can mean anything from “awww” to “Oh no, that’s terrible!”
3. Network and Fill Up That Contact Book
Of the many things to know before traveling to South Africa, know that you will meet a lot of people along the way. Be friendly and network as you are out on the job or at company events, but keep it professional. You never know where the connections could lead.With everything you need to know about internships in South Africa, don’t get this one wrong. Maybe a friend today could be tomorrow’s connection at that prestigious company where you’ve always dreamed of working. Professional friendships can prove valuable in the long run. One of the best ways to learn about South Africa and its culture is to talk to the locals. South Africans are friendly, hospitable, and proud of their country. They love to share their stories, opinions, and advice with visitors.
4. Respect Wildlife and the Environment
One of the main reasons to visit South Africa is to see its amazing wildlife and natural wonders. The country is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as many other animals, birds, plants, and marine life. You can see them in their natural habitats in national parks, game reserves, sanctuaries, and conservation areas. However, you need to be respectful of the wildlife and the environment when you visit these places. Don’t feed, touch, or disturb the animals, as they may react unpredictably or aggressively. Keep a safe distance from them, and follow the instructions of your guide or ranger.
5. Adapting to a Streetwise Culture
For most people, it’s easier to figure out everything you need to know about internships in South Africa. Being streetwise in South Africa is a big one on that list, and it is just one of those things to know before traveling to South Africa. While driving in rural areas and national parks is usually safe and enjoyable, driving in cities can be more challenging and risky. Cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria are busy and congested with traffic, especially during peak hours. You’ll need to be more alert and cautious when driving in cities, as you may encounter aggressive drivers, pedestrians crossing the road randomly, bicycles and motorcycles weaving through traffic, and minibus taxis stopping abruptly or changing lanes without warning.
You’ll also need to be aware of the potential for crime and theft when driving in cities. Don’t leave any valuables in your car, especially in plain sight. Park your car in a secure and well-lit area, preferably with a guard or a parking attendant. Don’t pick up hitchhikers or strangers, and don’t stop for anyone who tries to flag you down on the road. If you feel unsafe or unsure, drive to the nearest police station or petrol station and ask for help.
6. Loadshedding is the Norm
We’ve left the best for last on our list of everything you need to know about internships in South Africa. And it is load-shedding. Basically, load-shedding is a never-ending series of planned power outages designed to take pressure off the ailing electricity grid. TCities and towns are split into zones, and depending on the severity of the load-shedding, you might end up without power for anything from two to 12 hours a day. There are eight “stages” of load-shedding, broken up into two-hour slots. Larger hotels won’t be affected thanks to backup generators, but if you’re staying in a guesthouse, hostel, or private home, you are bound to encounter load-shedding at some point in your stay.
Many places come equipped with fail-safes such as emergency lights, backup power for fridges and Wi-Fi hubs, and sometimes generators big enough to power the whole property. Your host will likely give you daily updates on when the power will be off, or there’s a handy app – EskomSePush – that has all the details and comes with a handy warning notification.
What To Expect from an Internship in South Africa
Doing an internship with a South African nonprofit organization that’s doing impactful work is a rewarding experience. You’ll get an understanding of the nonprofit sector in an African context and you’ll get to create change on a grassroots level. The work you’ll do will make a tangible difference on a social, environmental, or animal welfare level – and along the way, you’ll learn everything you need to know about internships in South Africa. That’s a pretty great way to kickstart your working life. So, how about we get familiar with some of the best internships available in South Africa!
Top South African Internships to Consider
1. Nonprofit Sustainability Internship
Join this internship and contribute to the overall management and development of an impactful organization dedicated to planting food gardens in underserved communities around Cape Town. As an intern, you will assist in various aspects, including project planning, community engagement, and sustainable gardening practices. Ideal candidates are passionate about sustainability, eager to learn, and ready to work collaboratively in diverse environments. For everything you need to know about internships in South Africa, this opportunity provides comprehensive insights and practical experience in nonprofit sustainability.
2. Writing & Communications Internship
Enhance your writing skills and raise awareness for a nonprofit pairing rescue dogs with at-risk youth. As an intern, you will create compelling content to promote our mission, engage with the community, and support various communication initiatives. Ideal candidates are passionate about storytelling, eager to make a difference, and ready to work in a dynamic, supportive environment. Gain valuable experience and contribute to a meaningful cause.
3. Gender-based Violence Research Internship
Help map issues and solutions for a nonprofit dedicated to fighting gender-based violence in South African communities. As an intern, you will assist in data collection, analysis, and reporting to support the organization’s mission. Ideal candidates are passionate about social justice, possess strong research skills, and are eager to contribute to meaningful change. This internship offers valuable experience in advocacy and the opportunity to make a significant impact on addressing gender-based violence.
4. Wildlife Photography Internship
Improve your photography skills while supporting conservation projects in the Greater Kruger National Park. As an intern, you will capture stunning images of diverse wildlife and landscapes, contributing to vital conservation efforts. Ideal candidates are passionate about wildlife, eager to learn, and ready to work in dynamic outdoor settings. This hands-on experience offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on conservation while developing your photography portfolio in a world-renowned natural environment.
5. Digital Marketing Internship
Experience professional growth, engage in impactful work, and enjoy the delightful company of puppies. As an intern, you will develop and implement marketing strategies to promote our mission, enhance your digital skills, and create compelling content. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic about digital marketing, eager to make a difference, and love working in a fun, supportive environment. This unique opportunity combines professional development with the joy of working alongside adorable puppies.
South Africa is Ready. Are You?
And that’s everything you need to know about internships in South Africa! With all your new knowledge, you now know a bit more about our beautiful country. South Africa is a great place to visit and an even better place to explore. To find out, you have to experience it for yourself. We can’t wait to meet you!
Still not convinced? Browse through all our internship opportunities in South Africa to find the program that matches your skillset. If you’re not entirely sure where to start, or which internship program might be the best match for you, get to know more about how to apply for a nonprofit internship or simply get in touch with us! We’ll help you figure it out! From logistics and preparations to visa applications.
