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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.

USD 200 Summer Special!

Expedition Medic Internship in South Africa or Costa Rica

  • Min. 13 weeks
  • Costa Rica or South Africa
  • First Aid, Medical Support, Emergency Responder
Develop your paramedic skills accompanying young volunteers on the trip of a lifetime.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Open for applications

Communications and Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Tacloban, Philippines OR Remote
  • Content Creation, Fundraising, Communications
Seize the chance to make a meaningful difference, gaining hands-on experience in communications, fundraising, and development initiatives.
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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
Delve into the realm of water and waste research, aligning your passion with a mission to positively impact the ongoing climate crisis.
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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
Amplify awareness about a lesser-explored facet of the climate crisis while refining diverse communication and public relations skills in Berlin.
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Lady giving presentation about fashion for water

Open for applications

Graphic Design Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Berlin, Germany OR Remote
  • GRAPHIC DESIGN, PRESENTATIONS, REPORTS, IMPACT VISUALIZATION
Unleash your creativity and artistic flair, contributing to impactful climate projects that trasnscend borders and captivate audiences.
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migrants posing for a photo in front of a shelter

Open for applications

Shelter And Support For Migrants Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Barcelona, Spain
  • FACILITATION, EVALUATION, COORDINATION, COMMUNICATION
Provide essential shelter and support for young migrants, fostering a welcoming environment as they navigate new challenges and opportunities.
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a group of people posing for a photo

Available from Oct 2024

Business Analyst Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Barcelona, Spain
  • DATA ANALYSIS, MARKET RESEARCH, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT
Embark on a journey to unveil the insights into business growth and development, applying analytical skills to drive strategic decision-making.
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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.
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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, actively contributing to making a meaningful impact on the local community.
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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
Immerse yourself in healthcare amidst Peru's breathtaking landscapes, fostering community health and nutrition for a more active, healthy life.
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Children around table in class room

Open for applications

Education Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT, TEACHING, EVALUATION, PROGRESS REPORTS
Ignite your passion for education and make a lasting impact by becoming a part of an immersive program in the vibrant landscapes of South Africa.
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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 mission to assist vulnerable youth facing disabilities in Arequipa, promoting inclusivity and fostering positive social impact.
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peruvians

Psychology Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • REPORTING, PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION, PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION
Generate a profound and enduring impact on the lives of youth and women in Peru through active participation in community development efforts.
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Girl with smiling child

Education Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Tomepampa, Peru
  • CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT, TEACHING, CLASS ASSISTANCE
Gain valuable international teaching experience in a rural school, making meaningful contributions to student education and community engagement.
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Girl walking in field with a tree

Open for applications

Environmental Education Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Santarém, Portugal
  • EDUCATION, FACILITATION, CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT, MONITORING
Inspire change through education initiatives and community outreach, raising awareness about animal mistreatment and environmental issues.
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Girl with white duck

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Santarém, Portugal
  • CONTENT CREATION, FUNDRAISING, MONITORING & EVALUATION, FUNDING RESEARCH
Contribute strategically to initiatives aiding in raising crucial funds for vulnerable animals and promoting their welfare and well-being.
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Vet holding dog

Open for applications

Veterinary Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Santarém, Portugal
  • ANIMAL CARE, VETERINARY ASSISTANCE, TREATMENT
Gain valuable insights into wildlife healthcare by providing first-hand veterinary care for vulnerable animals in a forest sanctuary in Portugal.
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Woman holding her baby

Open for applications

Mental and Physical Health Development Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • CURRICULUM AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION METHODOLOGY
Empower through health development with the opportunity to independently design care programs for mental and physical well-being in Cambodia.
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Boy behind computer

Open for applications

Technical Support Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • CRM MANAGEMENT, DATA ANALYSIS, IT
Assist a nonprofit in optimizing software and digital tools, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving positive impact for meaningful change.
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Girl laughing while eating

Open for applications

Communications and Marketing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, CONTENT CREATION, SOCIAL MEDIA, REPORTING
Build communication and marketing skills, aiding initiatives to uplift families from poverty through impactful outreach and awareness campaigns.
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smiling children cambodia

Open for applications

Education Program Development Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • CURRICULUM AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION METHODOLOGY
Collaborate on designing impactful educational programs to break the cycle of poverty and shape a brighter future for children and families.
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boy with plant

Open for applications

Conservation Marketing and Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Manzanillo, Costa Rica
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, CONTENT CREATION, FUNDRAISING, OUTREACH
Contribute to vital conservation efforts through fundraising and awareness campaigns, preserving the region's unique ecosystems and biodiversity.
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aerial picture of cirenas

Open for applications

Conservation Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Manzanillo, Costa Rica
  • DATA CAPTURE, PERMACULTURE, CONSERVATION, EDUCATION, MONITORING, RESEARCH
Play an integral role in advancing conservation research by actively engaging in hands-on fieldwork to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystems.
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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
Contribute to rainforest preservation through hands-on research in Brazil, exploring the intricacies of ecosystem conservation and biodiversity.
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Community Health Internship

Open for applications

Community Healthcare Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puerto Inca, Peru
  • Medical, Healthcare, Community Outreach 
Provide medical support at a health center in the Peruvian Amazon, enhancing community well-being and gaining valuable healthcare experience.
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Teaching internship Peru

Open for applications

Teaching Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Puerto Inca, Peru
  • Curriculum Development, Workshops, Education
Discover your love for education as you guide and share knowledge, fostering learning experiences in the enchanting landscapes of Peru.
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Biology Research internship

Open for applications

Biology Research Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puerto Inca, Peru
  • Data Capture, Reporting, Surveys, Camera Traps
Work alongside expert researchers, documenting and studying diverse flora and fauna to gain insights into biodiversity and conservation methods.
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Sea turtle conservation internship

Open for applications

Conservation Marketing Internship

  • Min. 6 weeks
  • Carate, Costa Rica
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, CONTENT CREATION
Acquire digital marketing experience in sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica, crafting compelling campaigns and fostering community engagement.
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Project assistant internship

Open for applications

Project Assistant Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
  • COORDINATION, FUNDRAISING, COMMUNICATIONS
Gain experience with a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the Cloud Forest, contributing to community engagement and environmental conservation.
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Wildlife Research internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Research Internship

  • Min. 6 weeks
  • 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
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Community outreach Brazil

Open for applications

Content Creation and Photography Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
  • CONTENT CREATION, PHOTOGRAPHY, WRITING, MARKETING
Hone you creative skills and capture compelling visual narratives while contributing to the conservation of the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest.
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Biodiversity conservation internship

Open for applications

Biodiversity Conservation Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
  • RESEARCH, REFORESTATION, CONSERVATION, MONITORING
Contribute to biodiversity preservation and climate crisis mitigation through hands-on efforts to restore the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest.
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Medicinal plant research internship

Open for applications

Medicinal Plant Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
  • RESEARCH, COMMUNITY OUTREACH, CONSERVATION, LAB WORK
Explore the realm of medicinal plants and actively promote conservation research to unveil the secrets of nature's healing wonders.
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Open for applications

Event Management Internship in the Netherlands

  • Min. 3 months
  • Amsterdam, The Netherlands
  • Event Coordination, Planning, Communications
Sharpen your organizational prowess, creating unforgettable experiences and developing event management skills in the vibrant city of Amsterdam.
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divers underwater

Open for Applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
  • DATA ANALYSIS, RESEARCH, REPORTING, EDUCATION
Explore marine research as an assistant, actively contributing to scientific discovery and conservation in the wonders of the underwater world.
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Open for Applications

Marine Research Fellow Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
  • DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS, LAB RESEARCH, REPORTING, MENTORING, EDUCATION
Transform global marine ecosystems through community-based conservation strategies, gaining insights and contributing to a sustainable future.
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two divers underwater reading a map

Open for Applications

Research Assistant and Divemaster Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
  • DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS, MONITORING, RESEARCH, REPORTING, EDUCATION
Utilize your marine science expertise to conduct vital research on Coral Triangle marine ecosystems while earning certification as a divemaster.
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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
Aid a rural community in developing clean water and hygiene systems, enhancing health outcomes through collaborative engineering projects.
Find out more
volunteers teaching kids

Open for applicaitons

Education & Youth Development Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Shandia, Ecuador
  • TEACHING, COMMUNITY OUTREACH, CONTENT CREATION, OPERATIONS
Empower young individuals in the Amazon rainforest through education and youth development initiatives, fostering growth and future prospects.
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woman digging the soil

Open for applications

Research and Nature Conservation Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Bahia, Brazil
  • RESEARCH, MONITORING, DATA ANALYSIS, REPORTING, EDUCATION
Acquire valuable hands-on research experience, safeguard biodiversity, and contribute practical solutions to environmental conservation efforts.
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girl typing in her laptop

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Bahia, Brazil
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, CONTENT CREATION, STRATEGY, FUNDRAISING
Elevate your marketing and fundraising expertise, contributing to impactful initiatives that shape positive change in a seaside community
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Social internship Amsterdam

Open for applications

Social Internship in Amsterdam

  • Min. 3 months
  • Amsterdam, the Netherlands
  • SOCIAL WORK, PROJECT COORDINATION, DIGITAL MARKETING
Make a positive impact on communities and individuals through social work, project coordination, and volunteer management for meaningful change.
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FAQs about our 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. 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 set up a call!

Where can I travel to for my internship abroad?

Apart from our internship programs in Africa, we offer impact-focused internships abroad in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. The destinations vary greatly; you might be based in vibrant cities such as Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Cape Town, or you could do your internship in a remote community or national park. Wherever you’ll be, you’ll join a team of dedicated professionals who are working towards a common goal. You can see a full overview of our internship destinations here.

Is it a good idea to do my internship abroad with a grassroots organization?

We’re a bit biased, but YES – when going abroad, internships with grassroots organization are absolutely a good idea! Interning with a nonprofit/NGO or social enterprise means that you’ll be doing meaningful work and that you’ll be learning from people that are passionate about what they do. It also means that you’ll be able to take on varied tasks and be given ownership of these, as we’ll place you with a small team that will greatly value your input and allow you to be involved with decision making. Plus, working for a good cause will undoubtedly add a lot of value to your personal growth and resume – even if you’re planning on a career in the for-profit sector. Read more about the benefits of interning with a nonprofit.

Who can apply for these global internships?

The requirements depend on the internship you’re applying for. Most of our internships don’t require a lot of work experience, but 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. Or, if you’d like our advice, just get in touch!

Can I get credit for doing an internship abroad?

Absolutely! You might be able to get credit through your own university (be sure to double check with you advisor), and if not, we can help you out by offering transfer credits. You can find out more about university credits here.

Is accommodation included in my global internship program?

We help sort this out for you! We offer accommodation options that are safe, comfortable, affordable, and close to your project location.

How do I fund my internship abroad?

We do everything we can to keep the costs low, but obviously it costs money to do an internship abroad. However, there are funding options you can explore, and we are happy to talk you through them.