How do online gap year internships work?

We’re happy to offer a number of remote internships. As an online intern, you’ll still be part of an NGO in Africa, and you’ll be doing a lot of the same work that you would do on the ground. You’ll be in touch with your supervisor and other colleagues on a very regular basis, using a range of digital platforms. In a working world that is increasingly moving towards a distributed working model, gaining experience in working remotely can be a beneficial thing. Plus, you’ll gain international experience from the comfort of your own home.

Gap Year Internships - Roots Interns

Q: Where can I go for a gap year internship?

We offer gap year internships in nine different African countries; South Africa, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana. There’s a great variety of settings; you can be based in a buzzing city, in the middle of the African bush, in a rural village, or on an island in the Indian Ocean. Wherever you’ll be based, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery, interesting cultures, and an abundance of travel opportunities.

Are you looking to do a gap year internship abroad? We’ve got you covered!

We strongly believe that doing a internship during your gap year is a wonderful idea; it allows you to gain a fresh perspective on your career plans and life goals, so that you can pursue those with purpose and motivation. It’s also a great opportunity to get some international experience under your belt, something that enhances your resume, broadens your horizons, and – not unimportantly – allows you to have an exciting adventure.

At Roots, we offer a wide range of gap year internships around the world. These are all with organizations that are addressing humanitarian, environmental, and animal welfare issues on a grassroots level. We also offer a number of online gap year internships, which allow you to still gain international exposure and valuable work experience even if you’re unable to travel.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GAP YEAR INTERNSHIPS

NGO Management interns with Omnis Factum smiling together

Open for applications

NGO Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Montijo, Portugal
Program Coordination, Digital Marketing, Community Development

Develop practical skills in project coordination, digital communication, and community engagement through hands-on NGO work

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Open for applications

Remote Sustainable Tourism Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Remote
Social Media, Market Research, Marketing Strategy, Website Management

Help shape and promote a sustainable Maasai-owned tented camp in Kenya to a global audience.

Find out more

Open for applications

Community Education Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Central Highlands, Ecuador
Education, Planning lessons, Community Development

Support rural education in the Ecuadorian Andes through hands-on teaching and community engagement

Find out more

Open for applications

Community Development and Anthropology Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Central Highlands, Ecuador
Education, Community development, Cultural immersion

Gain field-based experience in cultural preservation and sustainable development in the Andes of Ecuador.

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Open for applications

Women’s Empowerment Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Central Highlands, Ecuador
Education, Outreach, Research, Mentoring, Material Development

Empower females in underserved communities by playing a key role in delivering programs that promote women’s self-esteem, leadership potential, and reproductive health education.

Find out more

Interns work together to pass clay tiles for the restoration of a rural structure.

Open for applications

Sustainable Architecture Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Central Highlands, Ecuador
Ancestral Construction, Building, Planning, Engineering

Use sustainable architecture to restore traditional buildings and support community development in rural Ecuador.

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Enjoying the Amazon rainforest view during an animal welfare internship in Ecuador.

Open for applications

Animal Welfare Marketing Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puyo, Ecuador
Animal Welfare, Marketing & Communications,

Use your marketing skills to support animal welfare and raise awareness for rescued wildlife in the Amazon.

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Open for applications

Amazon Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puyo, Ecuador
Animal Welfare, Conservation, Wildlife Husbandry

Support the rehabilitation of rescued wildlife in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest.

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Open for applications

Circular Economy and Waste Management Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Quito, Ecuador
Outreach, Coordination, Recycling

Support urban sustainability in Quito through hands-on environmental action and circular economy initiatives.

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Open for applications

Rehabilitation Support Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Quito, Ecuador
Social Work, Therapy, Rehabilitation, Education

Support comprehensive rehabilitation care for people with disabilities while gaining experience in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial health services.

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Open for applications

Robotics Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Quito, Ecuador
Automation Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Industrial Robotics

Immerse yourself in the dynamic field of robotics, where you'll gain hands-on experience in automation and AI while exploring the country’s rich culture and technological landscape.

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A group of young participants and mentors pose at a **summer program event**, with some holding certificates in a recognition ceremony.

Open for applications

Remote Partnerships & Fundraising Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Remote
Fundraising, Grant Writing, Donor Relations, Partnership Development

Develop skills in fundraising while supporting a nonprofit focused on advocacy, mentorship, and community development.

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Open for applications

Remote Social Media & PR Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Remote
Social Media Management, Public Relations, Digital Engagement, Content Strategy

Build your expertise in digital storytelling and media outreach while contributing to young women's empowerment.

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Participants in Lilongwe on top of a rock in front of a setting sun.

Open for applications

Wildlife Research Program

Min. 2 weeks
Liwonde National Park, Malawi
Monitoring, Tracking, Identification, Data Entry, Camera Trapping

Contribute to conservation through data collection and species monitoring while working alongside expert researchers in a biodiverse ecosystem.

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A baby monkey being bottle-fed in the Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary.

Open for applications

Wildlife Sanctuary Program

Min. 2 weeks
Lilongwe, Malawi
Animal Husbandry, Orphan Care, Observations, Integrations

Work directly with rescued animals, gain conservation skills, and contribute to meaningful rehabilitation efforts.

Find out more

Open for applications

Traditional Medicine Internship

Min. of 4 weeks
Archidona, Ecuador
Natural Medicine, Ethnobotany, Midwifery

Immerse yourself in the diverse world of traditional medicine and discover how your efforts can create lasting impacts within indigenous communities.

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Close-up of code on a computer screen, representing work in IT or software development.

Open for applications

Web Management & IT Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Lisbon, Portugal
Website Management, Backend Development, Systems & Procedures

Apply your IT skills to web development projects with nonprofits that will help you build your portfolio as you expand their online presence.

Find out more

Open for applications

Veterinary Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Lisbon OR Porto, Portugal
Hands-On Clinical Work, Animal Care, Treatments & Consultations

Gain practical clinical experience through a hands-on opportunity that will immerse you in the animal welfare field.

Find out more

Team collaborating outdoors on laptops and tablets

Open for applications

Communications Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Lisbon OR Porto, Portugal
Digital Media, Strategic Marketing, Communication Channels

Extend the reach of dedicated nonprofits through digital marketing campaigns and refined communications strategies.

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A group of people in Malawi attentively participating in an agroforestry demonstration.

Open for applications

Agroecology Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Environmental Sustainability, Capacity Building, Organizational Development

Take an active role in empowering rural communities through workshops focused on food and water security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

Find out more

Intern coaching children in a soccer drill on a grassy field.

Open for applications

Sports Coaching Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Sports Coaching, Youth Empowerment, Project Management

Build a versatile repertoire of sports coaching and youth development skills to uplift disadvantaged communities.

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students working in a wooden library with bookshelves and trophies

Open for applications

Teaching & Youth Development Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Mentoring, Academic Guidance, Safe Play

Develop well-rounded teaching and education experience as you uplift the indigent communities of Tacloban City.

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Fundraising and digital marketing internship

Open for applications

Fundraising & Digital Marketing Internship

Min. 8 weeks (in-person) / 12 weeks (remote)
Tacloban, Philippines OR Remote
Digital Media, Campaign Management, Strategic Marketing

Help raise awareness and funds for an organization uplifting impoverished communities through education.

Find out more

Two interns smiling while working at a reception desk in a tourism office

Open for applications

Sustainable Tourism Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Costa Rica, Guatemala, OR Peru
Sustainable Development, Hospitality, Eco-Tourism

Step into the world of responsible travel and support community-driven tourism initiatives across Latin America

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veterinary intern in Latin America observing an animal surgery

Open for applications

Veterinary Medicine Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Costa Rica, Guatemala, OR Peru
Clinical Practice, Animal Rehabilitation, Veterinary Observations

Gain hands-on animal care experience while supporting clinics, rescue centers, or zoos in Latin America.

Find out more

Open for applications

Social Business Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Costa Rica, Guatemala, OR Peru
Business Development, Social Entrepreneurship, Strategy

Gain international experience supporting small business development in Latin America.

Find out more

Intern smiling while grading the papers of the students

Open for applications

Education Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Costa Rica, Guatemala, OR Peru
Education, Teaching, Lesson Planning

Gain international teaching experience working with children from various backgrounds and immerse yourself in a Latin American culture

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Intern with the locals of Machu Pichu and their llamas.

Open for applications

Human Rights Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Costa Rica, Guatemala, OR Peru
Research, Project Support, Community Outreach

Engage with a community project to experience the influence of culture, social values, and the roles of politics, religion, gender, and ethnicity.

Find out more

Open for applications

Business Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Research, Data Analysis, M&E, Strategic Development

Build diverse business skills and experience supporting an impactful education and community uplift nonprofit.

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia OR Remote
Communications, Fundraising, M&E, Daily Operations

Engage in broad skill-building opportunities, varied workloads, and a chance to make a tangible impact for impoverished communities.

Find out more

group of children sitting on the ground, listening to a woman speaking in front

Open for applications

Education Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Teaching, Curriculum Development, Lesson Planning

Help to run educational programs and vocational training for impoverished communities of Siem Reap.

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Volunteers working on a construction project in a rural village setting

Open for applications

Construction Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Building, Product Design, Planning & Research

Build skills and experience in construction by building homes and sanitation systems for impoverished neighborhoods.

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a volunteer holding a printed hamburger in front of the room in Tacloban City

Open for applications

Nutrition Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Program Development, Nutrition Research, Seminar Leading

Empower communities by promoting healthy living and addressing nutritional disparities through hands-on engagement, research, and educational outreach.

Find out more

Green parrots perched on rainforest leaves in Peru.

Open for applications

Conservation Internship

12 weeks
Manu Biosphere Reserve, Peru
Conservation, Research, Monitoring, Education

Gain field experience researching and monitoring the flora and fauna of the Amazon Rainforest

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puerto Inca, Peru
Monitoring & Evaluation, Impact Reporting, Project Interaction

Embark on a journey of diverse skill development in NGO management while contributing to the protection of the Amazon Rainforest.

Find out more

Open for applications

Social Welfare Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Counseling, Workshops, Mentorship, Empowerment

Support vulnerable populations, empower individuals, and foster community growth through hands-on involvement in social welfare initiatives in the Philippines.

Find out more

volunteers giving school supplies to students in Tacloban City

Open for applications

Special Education Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Teaching, Developing Learning Plans, Individualized Support

Collaborate with seasoned mentors to craft and deliver captivating lessons to students, igniting positive transformations in the lives of children with special needs.

Find out more

volunteers with a group of kids from Tacloban

Open for applications

Communications and Fundraising Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Content Creation, Fundraising, Communications

Seize the chance to make a meaningful difference, gaining hands-on experience in communications, fundraising, and development initiatives.

Find out more

Open for applications

Wildlife Conservation Program

Min. 3 weeks
Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
Research, Education, Conservation

Enhance your fieldwork skills and support habitat restoration in the Cloud Forest of Ecuador.

Find out more

Open for applications

Media Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Content Creation, Videography, Editing, TV

Make exciting, powerful content to inspire audiences to get behind vital conservation work.

Find out more

Open for applications

Sea Turtle Conservation Internship

Min. 6 weeks
Carate, Costa Rica
Data Collection, Marine Conservation, Education, Research

Contribute to the preservation of sea turtles and their natural habitats, while engaging in environmental conservation efforts in Costa Rica.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Content Creation, Fundraising, Monitoring & Evaluation, Funding Research

Help raise vital funds for vulnerable animals in Portugal while developing a diverse portfolio of work.

Find out more

Open for applications

Communications and Marketing Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Digital Marketing, Content Creation, Social Media, Reporting

Build communications and marketing skills whilst helping to lift children and their families out of poverty.

Find out more

Two children posing for a picture in Cambodia.

Open for applications

Public Health Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Resource Creation, Health Education, Workshop Development

Help create impactful health education resources for a grassroots NGO in Cambodia.

Find out more

Open for applications

Conservation Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Manzanillo, Costa Rica
Data Capture, Permaculture, Conservation, Education, Monitoring, Research

Specialize in Marine or Land Ecology, or get a taste of both with this versatile Conservation Internship.

Find out more

Open for applications

Conservation Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Manzanillo, Costa Rica
Digital Marketing, Content Creation, Fundraising, Outreach

Travel to Costa Rica and help raise funds and awareness for the important conservation work being done there.

Find out more

Open for applications

Rainforest Conservation Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
Research, Data Analysis, Community Outreach, Conservation, Reporting

Travel to Brazil and study the flora and fauna of the Atlantic Rainforest.

Find out more

interns smiling with a group of community members holding materials for a chicken coop

Open for applications

Community Development Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Shandia, Ecuador
Education, Public Health, Workshops, Sustainability

Gain hands-on experience supporting education, health, and sustainable livelihood programs in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Find out more

Open for applications

Sustainability Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Shandia, Ecuador
Conservation, Biodiversity, Ecotourism

Immerse yourself in sustainability, community development, and local culture through hands-on regenerative agriculture and ecotourism.

Find out more

Open for applications

Youth Development & Education Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Shandia, Ecuador
Teaching, Community Outreach, Content creation, Operations

Become an advocate for social change by sharing knowledge and working with a community in the Amazon Rainforest.

Find out more

a woman smiling while feeding a tortoise

Open for applications

Galapagos Conservation Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Galapagos, Ecuador
Conservation, Eco Tourism, Monitoring

Undertake a unique journey of conservation and transformation, working closely with experts to maintain Galapagos’ ecosystem.

Find out more

Open for applications

Urban Agriculture and Sustainable Farming Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Galapagos, Ecuador
Business Development, Data and Soil Analysis, Farming

Become an essential part of the farm workforce, using eco-friendly practices and contributing to food sovereignty.

Find out more

A woman smiles while holding a young girl in Ecuador

Open for applications

Galapagos Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Galapagos, Ecuador
Education, Social Media, Conservation

Dive into a transformative journey at the heart of Isabela Island where you will be actively contributing in making a meaningful impact on the island's community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Science Field Research Internship

2-4 weeks
Simon's Town, South Africa
Conservation Work, Research Dives, Data Collection

A comprehensive crash-course in Marine Science and Conservation

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Program

2-6 weeks
Simon's Town, South Africa
Community Outreach, Data Collection, Surveys, Reporting

Gain international experience in a marine conservation context

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

8-12 weeks
Simon's Town, South Africa
Research Dives, Data Collection, Mapping, Reporting

Make your first steps on a career path in Marine Science

Find out more

Open for applications

Biodiversity Conservation Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
Research, Reforestation, Conservation, Monitoring

Help reverse the climate crisis by restoring the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

4 weeks
Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
Data analysis, Research, Reporting, Education

Assist with the furtherment of Marine Science studying coral reefs in one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Fellow Internship

3 months
Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
Data analysis, (Lab) Research, Reporting, Mentoring, Education

Transform global marine ecosystems through locally-led community based conservation strategies

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 1 month
Bahia, Brazil
Digital Marketing, Content Creation, Strategy, Fundraising

Build a well-rounded marketing skill set promoting vital work done in a seaside community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Research and Nature Conservation Internship

Min. 1 month
Bahia, Brazil
Research, Monitoring, Data Analysis, Reporting, Education

Gain practical research experience protecting biodiversity and creating sustainable change through a mangrove reforestation project.

Find out more

Open for applications

SEO Content Writing Internship

Min. 10 weeks
Remote
Creative Writing, SEO, Blogging

Sharpen your writing skills and learn to write content that is creative and optimized for search engines.

Find out more

Applications open 2026

Marketing & Communications Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
Fundraising, Reporting, Social Media, Content Creation

Make an impact in the development and sustainability of this project, protecting an endadgered species.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Livingstone, Zambia
Digital Marketing, Fundraising, Research

Raise funds through individual or corporate funding campaigns and grant applications

Find out more

Open for applications

Female Empowerment Education Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Livingstone, Zambia
Education, Facilitation, Research

Help develop educational materials to uplifts girls and women in this African community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Writing and Communications Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Livingstone, Zambia
Writing, Social Media, Fundraising, Communications

Help a social impact organization define their message and grow their reach.

Find out more

Open for applications

Yoga Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Program Development, Yoga Teaching, Communications

Teach yoga to bring upliftment to both individuals and the larger community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Remote Content Writing & Communications Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Remote
Digital Marketing, Writing, Communications, Fundraising

Help a radio nonprofit uplift rural African communities with your writing skills.

Find out more

Fundraising & Marketing Strategy Internship

Open for applications

Youth Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
Teaching, Life Skills, Youth Support & Empowerment

Assist in a nonprofit's holistic mission of supporting and educating young people through dance and life skills training.

Find out more

Open for applications

Fundraising & Marketing Strategy Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
Strategy, Digital Marketing, Fundraising, Monitoring

Help develop the organization’s communications and fundraising strategies.

Find out more

Open for applications

Nonprofit Education Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Education, Teaching, Curriculum development

Teach classes, help train local teachers, and develop and run afterschool programs

Find out more

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Digital Marketing, Fundraising, Social Media

Enhance your marketing and communications skills with a grassroots eco-lodge dedicated to driving community development through a range of initiatives.

Find out more

sustainable tourism eco-lodge internship in Malawi

Open for applications

Sustainable Tourism Marketing Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Digital Marketing, Eco-Tourism, Sustainable Development

Enhance your strategic development skills, making a positive impact on the environment and community with a nonprofit eco-lodge.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Internship

2-12 weeks
Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Research, Reporting, Monitoring, Education

Gain hands-on experience in marine research on a breathtaking island, studying diverse ecosystems and contributing to conservation efforts.

Find out more

Open for applications

Sustainable Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Livingstone, Zambia
Program Development, Monitoring & Evaluation, Fundraising, Communication

Gain practical experience in NGO management, communications, program coordination, and fundraising

Find out more

A young lion laying on grass, whilst another lion is closely behind.

Open for applications

Wildlife Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Greater Kruger, South Africa
Game Drives, Research, Fieldwork, Data Analysis, Reports

Journey to South Africa's largest wildlife reserve, the Greater Kruger National Park, and engage in groundbreaking research.

Find out more

Open for applications

Wildlife Photography Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Greater Kruger, South Africa
Photography, Conservation

Photograph lions, leopards, elephants, and many more animals, while sharpening your skills.

Find out more

public health intern in Zambia giving an education presentation with kids

Open for applications

Public Health Internship

4 weeks
Livingstone, Zambia
Public Health, Medicine, Community Outreach, Healthcare Assistance

Bridge the gap in community healthcare and expand accessibility in Livingstone, Zambia.

Find out more

Female Empowerment and Gender Equality Internship

Open for applications

Female Empowerment & Gender Equality Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Livingstone, Zambia
Gender Equality, Female Empowerment

Gain work experience with projects that support girls in underprivileged communities.

Find out more

Open for applications

Humanitarian Photography Program

2 weeks
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Humanitarian Photography, Nonprofit Storytelling

Use your photography skills to make an impact during this unique photography program that will teach you new techniques.

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Open for applications

Music Teaching Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Mbarara, Uganda
Music, Education, Youth Empowerment

Use your music skills for good by offering a variety of music lessons to kids in rural Uganda.

Find out more

Open for applications

Permaculture Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Permaculture, Organic Farming

Help to develop and run workshops for permaculture clubs in rural schools, spreading knowledge of self-sufficiency and sustainability while getting your hands dirty.

Find out more

Person using a VR headset and controller during a media activity

Open for applications

Social Media Marketing Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Social Media, Content Creation, Analytics, Community Management

Gain valuable digital marketing experience promoting real stories to make a last impact.

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Event Management Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Event Management, Coordination, Planning

Gain practical work experience while managing events for community development projects.

Find out more

Open for applications

Youth Social Work Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Youth Development, Social Work

Provide support and positive activities to children with troubled backgrounds.

Find out more

Open for applications

Urban Farming Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Urban Greening, Fieldwork, Gardening

Get your hands dirty by developing and managing food gardens at schools in townships to show children the importance of urban greening and valuing nutrition.

Find out more

Reasons for doing a gap year internship abroad

We firmly believe in the merit of gap years. Taking a break before heading to university and pursuing a career is a great chance to step back and reflect. By traveling, volunteering, or interning, you can build confidence, adaptability, and a sense of purpose. And it doesn’t need to interfere with your academic or career achievements – on the contrary; research shows that people who’ve taken a gap year end up being more engaged when they get to university, and perform better academically.

One great benefit of taking a gap year is the opportunity to sample different careers. Instead of just guessing that a certain sector or job will suit and fulfil you, you can do a gap year internship to actually experience what a certain career would look like on a daily basis. And needless to say, it will also look good on your resume to build up some practical work experience.

At Roots, we offer gap year internships with nonprofits globally. Apart from offering practical work experience, these internships also allow you to be part of an inspiring cause, and live and work in a foreign culture. You’ll be able to use and explore your talents, find your strengths, grow in adaptability, and make a tangible impact on a grassroots level.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gap Year Internships

What can I expect to learn on a gap year internship with a nonprofit organization?

The internship tasks vary hugely across the different programs we offer. Depending on the type of internship you’ll sign up for, you can get practical work experience in areas such as communications, marketing, project management, content writing, fundraising, and business development. Most internships are quite flexible and offer you to dabble in a variety of tasks, so that you can explore your skills.

Regardless of your specific focus, you’ll gain an understanding of the nonprofit sector in the context of a developing country, as you’ll be part of a charitable organization. More specifically, you might be working on environmental, human rights, education, wildlife conservation, or animal welfare projects.

Through your gap year internship abroad, you can expect to explore your unique talents, do some valuable experiential learning, and develop a range of skills. You’ll also make a difference on the ground, to a cause you feel passionate about.

Do I qualify for one of your gap year internships?

Just send us your motivation and resume, and we’ll find you the right opportunity! Some internships require a certain amount of skills and/or experience, but for most of them, you just need to be motivated and excited to learn. We offer a wide range of gap year internships, all with different focus areas, and we’re confident we can find something suitable for you.

Where can I go for a gap year internship?

We offer gap year internships in countries around the world! There’s a great variety of settings; you can be based in a buzzing city, in the middle of the African bush, in a rural village, or on an island in the Indian Ocean. Wherever you’ll be based, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery, interesting cultures, and an abundance of travel opportunities.

Will I need a visa and vaccinations?

Yes, you will. The requirements are different for each country, and we’ll give you all the information you need to get fully prepared for the experience. We’ll be here every step of the way.

Is it safe to do a gap year internship abroad?

Yes, absolutely. It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, educate yourself on recommended precautions, and use good common sense. It’s always good to be vigilant and well-informed – and we’ll assist you with this. Our Roots team will make sure you have all the information you need for a safe experience during your internship.

How long can I intern for?

Most of our gap year internships have a minimum length of eight weeks, and you can usually stay for as long as you wish. Or you can do multiple internships. Each internship listing has information on the specific requirements, but if anything is unclear, do let us know!

How can I raise funds for a gap year internship abroad?

There are costs involved in international travel, and since our nonprofit internships are unpaid, we understand that this can be an obstacle. But there are ways to fundraise for the experience, and you might find that people are willing to help you make it happen, especially since you’ll be working for a good cause. On our fundraising page, we list some ideas of how to go about this.

And, if spending time abroad really isn’t an option for you, but you’d still like to have the work experience, you can opt to do one of our online gap year internships. (Or a combination of the two, if that works for you.) Which segways nicely to the next question.

How do virtual gap year internships work?

We’re happy to offer a number of remote internships. As an online intern, you’ll join a nonprofit or startup and you’ll be doing a lot of the same work that you would do on the ground. You’ll be in touch with your supervisor and other colleagues on a regular basis, using a range of digital platforms. In a working world that is increasingly moving towards a distributed working model, gaining experience in working remotely can be a beneficial thing. Plus, you’ll gain international experience from the comfort of your own home.

Animal Welfare
Business Development
Community Development
Creative Writing
Education & Pedagogy
Engineering & IT
Environmental Management
Event Management
Fundraising
Gender Equality
Human Rights
Law
Marine Conservation
Marketing & Communications
Media & Design
Medical
NGO Management
Photography
Psychology & Social Work
Public Health
Wildlife Conservation

Animal Welfare
Business Development
Community Development
Creative Writing
Education & Pedagogy
Engineering & IT
Environmental Management
Event Management
Fundraising
Gender Equality
Human Rights
Law
Marine Conservation
Marketing & Communications
Media & Design
Medical
NGO Management
Photography
Psychology & Social Work
Public Health
Wildlife Conservation