Gender Based Violence Research Internship in Cape Town

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Gain varied research experience while contributing to an important cause

Bring your research skills to a nonprofit organization that’s providing vital support to victims of gender based violence in Cape Town, South Africa. It’s an excellent opportunity to contribute to this important cause while gaining a wealth of practical experience.

Gender based violence is a prevalent problem in South African society. You’ll join a nonprofit that addresses the issue in a multi-faceted way; they offer empowering counseling programs to victims, and work to break the cycle of abuse by tackling cultural attitudes. The organization has been running for over 25 years, and has a strong track record of creating change.

As a GBV Research intern, you’ll support this work by doing research on a number of levels. Depending on your interests and the needs at the time, you might be doing issue-based research, impact analysis, and funding research. Either way, you’ll have a hugely educational and inspiring experience.

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

During this internship, you’ll stay in safe, secure, and fully furnished co-living spaces that offer both comfort and community. The accommodations are designed to ensure your well-being, with regular cleaning services and a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere. You’ll have access to fully-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, making daily life easy and convenient. You’ll also have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, building friendships with fellow residents who share similar interests. The specific lodging will be based on availability during your desired internship dates and your budget – you’ll then be provided with more details on the exact unit you’ll be staying in.

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 & populated areas & streets that are nearby, and which areas to avoid. 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

Your accommodation includes free Wifi to stay in touch with family and friends while in Cape Town. Most cafes/restaurants also offer free Wifi for remote work days and staying online. You can consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked for international carriers, or setting your phone’s status to roaming (be aware of high charges for this option).

Meals

Meals are NOT included during your internship in Cape Town. You will have access to a fully-equipped shared kitchen with modern appliances that includes everything you need to cook meals throughout your stay. Additionally, there are a wide variety of international cuisines options around Cape Town and plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants to try out in the neighborhood.<