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Nonprofit Internships Abroad

At Roots, we’re proud to offer a great variety of internships abroad. While our roots (pun intended) are in Africa, we have also developed a global offering of exciting opportunities. Whether you want to do field research in biodiversity conservation in the Amazon Rainforest, a business development internship with a social enterprise in Cambodia, or a customized academic research internship in Ecuador, we can find you the right match. Our international internships vary greatly in setting and cover a wide range of academic focus areas.

But what our internships all over the globe have in common is that they are all with social businesses or nonprofits; passionate teams that are doing meaningful work on a grassroots level. As an intern, you’ll add value to a cause you believe in.

Highlights of our grassroots internships abroad:

  • You’ll have a chance to gain valuable experience, network in your field, and build a relevant resume.
  • You’ll get to live and work in a foreign culture, which is an exciting way to travel and explore, and helps you build adaptability and resourcefulness.
  • You’ll contribute to a social impact or conservation cause, as all our global internships are with nonprofit organizations or social businesses.
  • You’ll be able to take on more responsibility than with the average internship, as you’ll be a part of a small team (with big goals).

Browse through the opportunities in Asia, Europe, and Latin America below to find your global internship, or find out more about what to expect from an internship abroad.

Kids painting easter eggs

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
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.
Find out more
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.
Find out more
A sloth hanging on a branch in Ecuador.

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.
Find out more
Intenr and locals singing and praying.

Open for applications

Traditional Medicine Internship

  • Min. 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.
Find out more
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
Two interns load aid and food boxes into a van as part of a volunteer project during their NGO internship.

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Business Development, Strategy, Fundraising, Communications
Put your business skills to work by assisting nonprofits in their growth strategies to further their mission.
Find out more
A dog is being examined by interns during a veterinary internship in Europe, with medical equipment visible around the examination area.

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

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.
Find out more

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.
Find out more
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.
Find out more
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

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
Find out more
An intern with her supervisor in Latin America during her Social Business internship.

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
Find out more
Business development internship

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
NGO management internship

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
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.
Find out more
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
Teaching internship Peru

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
a group of children in Tacloban City

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
caterpillar on a plant

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
Four Asian children with glass of water

Open for applications

Impact and Water Waste Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Berlin, Germany OR Remote
  • Research, Data Analysis, Reporting, Presentations
Build valuable research skills whilst contributing to an often overlooked cause in the climate crisis
Find out more
Panel discussions with in clothing store setting

Open for applications

Communications & PR Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Berlin, Germany OR Remote
  • Writing, Strategy, Social Media, PR
Raise awareness for an often overlooked aspect of the climate crisis and build a varied skill set in communications and PR
Find out more
Lady giving presentation about fashion for water

Open for applications

Graphic Design Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Berlin, Germany OR Remote
  • Graphic design for visuals, presentations, reports, socials
Build a busting graphic design portfolio addressing an often overlooked aspect of the climate crisis
Find out more
a dentist checking a young girl's teeth in an outdoor medical mission

Open for applications

Medical Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • Medical Examinations, Health Campaigns, Community Medicine
Expand your medical skills and help improve the health and nutrition of this Peruvian community to ensure an active and healthy life.
Find out more
A group of children sitting at tables in a classroom

Open for applications

Social Work Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • Youth Development, Social Work
Embark on a deeply fulfilling mission to assist children and young individuals facing disabilities and vulnerability in Arequipa.
Find out more
group of peruvians talking near a bench

Open for applications

Psychology Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • Reporting, Psychological Evaluation, Program Development, Education
Make a profound difference in the lives of children, adolescents, women, and older adults facing significant challenges.
Find out more
Girl with smiling child

Open for applications

Education Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Tomepampa, Peru
  • Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships
Earn international teaching experience in a rural school while connecting with the local community.
Find out more
A woman with a face mask and children at a table

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • Fundraising, Impact Assessment, Communications, Volunteer Coordination
Live and work in Peru while you learn how to manage a small NGO.
Find out more
Girl with sheep

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
Sea turtle on the beach

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
baby sea turtles on the beach

Open for applications

Conservation Marketing Internship

  • 6-12 weeks
  • Carate, Costa Rica
  • Digital Marketing, Fundraising, Content Creation
Digital marketing working at the forefront of sea turtle conservation
Find out more
Raleigh Project Coordinator group out hiking

Open for applications

Project Coordinator

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Group Leading, Coordination, Mentorship
Facilitate transformative volunteering experiences for young people to learn about global citizenship.
Find out more
Vet holding dog

Open for applications

Veterinary Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Santarém, Portugal
  • Animal Care, Veterinary Assistance, Treatment
Get first hand veterinary experience by caring for vulnerable animals in a sanctuary surrounded by forest.
Find out more
Man cutting vegetation

Open for applications

Reforestation and Biodiversity Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Santarém, Portugal
  • Animal Care, Research, Data Capture, Conservation
Be part of an exciting reforestation program, helping to build a thriving natural environment for Portugal’s native animal and plant species.
Find out more
Girl feeding a bird

Open for applications

Wildlife Husbandry Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
  • Animal Care, Camera Traps, Training, Feeding
Gain hands-on experience caring for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife of Costa Rica.
Find out more
An intern helping a falcon fly.

Open for applications

Orphan Care Internship

  • Min. 6 weeks
  • Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
  • Animal Care, Nursery Assistance, Animal Research
Immerse yourself in nurturing and rehabilitating orphaned wildlife, contributing directly to their conservation in the heart of the biodiverse Puntarenas province.
Find out more
Vet students examining a feline

Available from January 2026

Veterinary Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
  • Veterinary Assistance, Reporting, Animal Care
Work on the frontline of wildlife conservation in a wildlife sanctuary in Costa Rica and assist with animal treatments, record-keeping, and overall care.
Find out more
Girl laughing while eating

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
smiling children cambodia

Open for applications

Education Program Development Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • Curriculum and Program Development, Education Methodology
Help devise educational programs to lift children and their families out of poverty.
Find out more
aerial picture of cirenas

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
boy with plant

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
girl with millipede on her hand

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
a picture of a group of volunteers outside

Open for applications

Project Assistant Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
  • Coordination, Fundraising, Communications
Gain multifaceted leadership experience assisting vital conservation work to protect the Cloud Forest.
Find out more
kids looking at a specimen in a jar

2026 start dates

Wildlife Research Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
  • Education, Data Capture & Analysis, Community Projects
Gain valuable scientific research experience by studying endemic species of plants and animals, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.
Find out more
volunteer inside a dental clinic

Open for applications

Public Health and WASH Engineering Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Shandia, Ecuador
  • Education, Research, Operations, Construction, Engineering, Public Health
Work with a a rural community to develop education programs and systems for clean water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Find out more
butterfly on a leaf

Open for applications

Sustainability & Ecotourism Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Shandia, Ecuador
  • Business Development, Marketing, Sustainable Tourism, Education
Help to expand sustainably efforts and establish an ecotourism center in the Amazonian Rainforest region of Ecuador.
Find out more
volunteers teaching kids

Open for applications

Education & Youth Development Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • 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
a woman watering plants

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
a green frog

Open for applications

Biology Research Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puerto Inca, Peru
  • Data Capture, Reporting, Surveys, Camera Traps
Work alongside experts documenting and studying flora and fauna of the Peruvian Amazon
Find out more
doctor checking boy's heartbeat

Open for applications

Community Healthcare Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puerto Inca, Peru
  • Medical, Healthcare, Community Outreach
Offer medical support and assistance at a local health center in the Peruvian Amazon
Find out more
teachers and kids smiling in a classroom

Open for applications

Teaching Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Puerto Inca, Peru
  • Curriculum Development, Workshops, Education
Teach children the skills they need to become the next generation of conservation leaders
Find out more
a woman planting

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
divers underwater

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
a diver with a reef

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
two divers underwater reading a map

Open for applications

Research Assistant and Divemaster Internship

  • 3 months
  • Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
  • Data analysis, Monitoring, Research, Reporting, Education
Conducts critical research on marine ecosystems in the Coral Triangle
Find out more
local children cling to the volunteer

Open for applications

Volunteer Coordinator

  • Min. 3 months
  • Bahia, Brazil
  • Coordination, Facilitation, Hospitality, Program Development
Empower a new generation of conservation leaders through a range of educational programs.
Find out more
girl typing in her laptop

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • 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
woman digging the soil

Open for applications

Research and Nature Conservation Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • 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
Raleigh volunteer sitting in a chair

Open for applications

Content Creator Internship

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Digital Media Creation, Content Gathering, Editing
Accompany young volunteers on the trip of a lifetime and capture content from the most magical moments.
Find out more
group of volunteers for wellbeing coordinator internship

Open for applications

Wellbeing Coordinator

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Mentoring, Program Leadership, Counseling
Guide young volunteers on an eye-opening expedition and support their wellbeing, health, and development.
Find out more
two Raleigh volunteers outside near a green vehicle

Open for applications

Photography Internship

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Photography, Storytelling, Editing Media
Join transformative volunteer expeditions and document powerful stories through photography and film.
Find out more

FAQs about our nonprofit internships abroad

HOW DO I FIND THE RIGHT INTERNSHIP ABROAD PROGRAM?

That’s what we’re here for! We’re happy to help guide you through the options, and find you an internship that aligns perfectly with your passions, academic background, and career goals. You can complete this Match Me Form to receive hand-picked suggestions based on your preferences. Once you’re ready, we’ll schedule a chat with you, during which we can find out more about your interests, and talk you through the various options available. You’re more than welcome to explore different internships with different organizations. (And don’t worry – no fees are due until you have successfully accepted an internship offer!) All you need to do is fill out our quick application form, and we’ll get going on finding you the ideal internship placement.

HOW WILL AN INTERNSHIP ABROAD WITH A GRASSROOTS ORGANIZATION ADVANCE MY CAREER?

Having international work experience of any kind is a great add to your resume! It highlights your adaptability, heightened cultural awareness, and independence. Interning with a grassroots organization specifically shows your commitment to sustainable development and your adaptability to new industries and environments. Besides this resume boost, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge in your chosen field through hands-on experience and real-world application. The bonus is you get to make meaningful connections with those in the community and contribute to making the world a better place. Overall, interning abroad with a grassroots organization allows you to embark on an exploration in a stunning location while applying your academics and experience, all while making an impact with a meaningful organization that matches your career aspirations.

Read more about the benefits of interning with a nonprofit.

CAN I GET CREDIT FOR DOING AN INTERNSHIP ABROAD?

Absolutely! Depending on your institution, you may be able to get credit through your own university or fulfill thesis/research course requirements (be sure to double check this with your advisor), and if not, we can help you secure transfer credits. You can find out more about purchasing university credits here.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TRAVELING ABROAD FOR MY INTERNSHIP?

An internship abroad is a great opportunity to explore new horizons while growing your resume! Traveling abroad for an internship allows you to gauge your skills in the real world – making it not only a career booster, but also allowing you to connect with like-minded people. Not to mention that you’ll be able to discover a beautiful new place, culture, and even language. At Roots we offer plenty of internships abroad in Asia, Latin America, Europe, and Africa – if you’re not sure where you want to travel to, you can check out a full overview of our internship destinations here.

WHAT KIND OF ACCOMMODATION IS INCLUDED?

The type of accommodation provided will depend on the internship you choose. They range from project site lodging, guesthouses, apartments, hostels, or even homestays with locals. No matter the style, our number one priority is to look for accommodation options that are safe, comfortable, affordable, and close to your project location! As many of our internship partners are located in developing countries, please keep in mind that the accommodation standard may be different than what you are used to at home.

HOW DO I FUND MY INTERNSHIP ABROAD?

Even though our internships abroad are self-funded, we do everything we can to keep the costs low by securing deals with accommodations. We recommend exploring opportunities with your university or home country as various scholarships may exist for pursuing an experience abroad. Additionally, here are a few funding options you can explore, and we are happy to talk you through them.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR THESE GLOBAL INTERNSHIPS?

There is something for everyone with our internships! Although the specific requirements depend on the internship you’re applying for, most of our internships don’t require a lot of work experience. Generally you do need to be enrolled in/have completed a relevant academic course. Each of our internship listings specifies the requirements, so you can have a look and apply now for the one that interests you. Or, if you’d like our advice, get in touch!