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Gender Based Violence Research Internship in Cape Town
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain varied research experience while contributing to an important cause
Bring your research skills to a nonprofit in Cape Town that provides vital support to survivors of gender-based violence. This internship offers the chance to contribute to an important cause while gaining meaningful hands-on experience in social impact and community research.
Gender-based violence remains a major issue in South Africa. You’ll join an organization with over 25 years of experience and a strong track record of creating change, empowering survivors, providing counseling, and challenging cultural attitudes that sustain abuse through a multi-faceted approach.
As a Gender-Based Violence Research intern, you’ll support this mission through issue-based research, impact analysis, and funding studies that align with your interests and the organization’s needs. While based in Cape Town, you’ll also have the chance to engage with the city’s community spirit by exploring local markets, art collectives, and cultural spaces that reflect its creativity and resilience.
ORGANIZATION
You’ll be part of MOSAIC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting gender based violence and providing support to victims. Gender-based violence (GBV) is a profound and widespread problem in South Africa, affecting a vast number of girls and women. This organization was founded in 1993 in response to the amount of violence and abuse, and the lack of social support services and legal support available to most victims. Their programs include trauma counseling, emergency support, educational workshops, public awareness campaigns, and legal support. They aim to guide female GBV survivors through a healing process, and to empower them to become active drivers of change in their lives. The nonprofit also strives to break the cycle of violence in society by changing attitudes about gender norms, and encouraging a culture of respect.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Responsibilities
As a Gender Based Violence Research intern, you’ll be focused on different types of research. The exact focus will depend on your skills & interests and on the organization’s needs at the time, but they are likely to include;
- Issue-focused research
- Impact evaluation
- Fundraising research
- Possibly report writing tasks
Requirements
- Strong research skills
- Excellent verbal and written English communication skills
- A passion for the issue MOSAIC is addressing
- Awareness of the sensitivity of this topic and able to maintain a sense of confidentiality
- Willingness to working in a culturally different environment
- A self-starter attitude and ability to work independently
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay in a fully furnished co-living space in Cape Town’s Observatory neighborhood, with your exact unit confirmed based on availability during your internship dates and your budget. Spread across multiple locations, the accommodations offer private bedrooms – available in small or large – alongside shared individual bathrooms, a communal kitchen, and inviting communal areas. All the essentials are taken care of, including free WiFi, housekeeping, linens and towels, laundry facilities, and CCTV cameras for your peace of mind. It’s a safe, comfortable base to connect with others in the city, and when you’re not interning, Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain, stunning coastline, and vibrant food and culture scene are right on your doorstep.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. During your placement, you’ll have access to the Roots team remotely, along with your internship supervisor on the ground.
South Africa does have high crime rates, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Safety recommendations include: do not walk anywhere alone and do not walk anywhere at night – it’s better to Uber, no matter the distance, even if you are in a group. Upon arrival, ask your accommodation about the safe/dangerous areas & streets that are nearby. Keep your belongings close to you (avoid using handbags), always keep an eye on your drinks when out socializing, don’t walk around with large sums of cash (you can pay for everything with a card), minimize wearing flashy accessories, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers. Take extra precautions at night by staying in a group and always taking an Uber once the sun goes down.
Communication
Communication
Your accommodation will include free Wifi to keep family and friends up to date via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc. Most cafes/restaurants also offer free Wifi for remote work days and staying online. You can also consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked for international carrier, or setting your phone’s status to roaming (be aware of high charges for this option).
Meals
Meals
Meals are not included, but you’ll have full access to a well-equipped shared kitchen with everything you need: pots, pans, cutlery, crockery, kettle, fridge/freezer, microwave, and a double burner stove top. Many interns take advantage of the chance to explore the city’s vibrant culinary world. Cape Town has no shortage of restaurants and cafes, with a wide variety of international cuisines to suit every taste and budget.
Location details
Location details
Discover Cape Town’s attractions: Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens, city tours, historical sites, and the Cape Point Peninsula. There are also opportunities to surf, kayak, paraglide, cage dive with sharks, and more! Cape Town has a mediterranean climate with cool winters and hot summers so be sure to check what the temperature will be like during your stay.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
You can start your internship with this organization every week. Please keep in mind this organization is closed for several weeks at the end of the year for the holiday season.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
12 weeks USD 3,809
16 weeks USD 4,793
20 weeks USD 5,776
24 weeks USD 6,760
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a single room in a shared accommodation – please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Wifi access
- Housekeeping service
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
- A discount on weekend activities, exclusive to Roots Interns
Exclusions
- Flights to Cape Town International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Meals
- Transport to the office
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
GALLERY
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.
What can I expect from a NGO internship in South Africa?
During your internship in South Africa you can expect to meet people from around the world, as well as indulging yourself into the culture of this beautiful country! If you want to know more about what to expect, make sure to check out our top 7 reasons for an internship in Cape Town.
Will I have time to explore South Africa during my internship?
Yes! We partner with various activity organizers that can offer discounts exclusive to Roots Interns, for example, a road trip through the Garden Route and bungee jumping off the world’s largest natural bungee. You may also explore the country on your own and we are happy to give recommendations.
Am I able to do an internship while on a study program in Cape Town?
Yes! You are able to do a part-time internship with certain organizations so that you can continue your studies, while also gaining valuable work experience.
Will I receive a stipend of any kind during my internship with Roots?
Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, your internship will be unpaid, but there are many ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that are invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Cape Town, South Africa
PROGRAM FOCUS: Gender-Based Violence NGO
TASK FOCUS: Research, Reporting, Monitoring
LENGTH: Min. 12 Weeks
COST: From USD 3,809
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain a wealth of research experience in a nonprofit setting
- Be part of a well-established nonprofit organization, and gain a good understanding of the day to day running of their programs
- Contribute to important support to victims of gender based violence
- Live and work in Cape Town, arguably one of the greatest cities in the world
- Have the flexibility of working remotely, if you prefer
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form and share your CV with us.
CONNECT
We’ll set up a call to get to know a bit more about you, your travel plans, and your internship goals.
MATCH
Your advisor will reach out to your host organization and verify that you’re a strong fit for their current projects.
ENROLL
Once the details are settled, confirm your placement with a program deposit (EUR 250).
MEET
We’ll arrange a meeting with your internship host, where you can learn more about your specific responsibilities as you prepare to depart.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
If you’d like to ask us some questions about our internships, fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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