Step into impactful development efforts and contribute to public health programs that are educating and uplifting communities
Are you ready to make a tangible difference in communities facing critical challenges? If so, get ready to embark on a dynamic and multifaceted internship experience where you will assume a central role in organizing and developing programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development.
As an integral member on this Program Assistant Internship, your responsibilities will extend to the orchestration of events, workshops, outreach initiatives, and training sessions, fostering an environment conducive to learning and community engagement. Your role may also encompass crucial support in administrative tasks and data management, which will help contribute to the seamless execution of projects. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork, gaining hands-on experience and a true understanding of the practical applications of the initiatives you contribute to.
This comprehensive involvement positions you at the forefront of transformative efforts, where your organizational, administrative, and fieldwork contributions blend together to shape the success of the organization’s endeavors.
Learning Objectives:
Established in 2018 in the the city of Pretoria, South Africa, this forward-thinking organization is dedicated to addressing human challenges through a comprehensive approach that encompasses nutrition and related services, capacity development, and psychosocial support. Their overarching goal is to optimize well-being and, in turn, catalyze the development of African nations.
At the heart of their mission, the organization strategically implements projects that span the domains of nutrition, skills development, and psychosocial support. Through these initiatives, the organization aims to not only alleviate immediate challenges but also create sustainable solutions that foster resilience and empower individuals.
The projects that this organization undertakes serve as catalysts for change, working towards a collective vision where the people within these communities are not only healthy but also equipped with the skills and support needed to thrive and realize their fullest potential.
As a Program Assistant intern, you will be assigned to coordinate programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development. Your exact role will depend on your skills, interests, and the current needs of the organization.
If you are keen to travel to South Africa, you’ll have the choice to stay at a backpackers accommodation or at a guesthouse, both nearby the office. The backpacker choices offer female only and mixed dorm rooms, along with single ensuites which all have access to the swimming pool, braai area, self-catering kitchen, and lounge areas. The guesthouse is an enclosed facility that includes a single room with a smart TV, A/C, mini fridge, and a shared self-catering kitchen. Contact us for prices and availability for either accommodation type.
This internship can also be completed remotely or on a hybrid model, which allows you to work comfortably from home (or anywhere else in the world).
Be sure to prioritize hydration in the summer (November-February) to avoid heatstroke. South Africa does have high crime rates, so it’s important to be aware and use common sense to stay safe. Some safety guidelines are to always walk in groups, take a taxi/Uber in the evenings, know safe/dangerous areas, secure your belongings, don’t walk around with large sums of cash (you can pay everything with a card), minimize wearing flashy accessories, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers.
The accommodation offers free Wifi to keep up to date with family and friends via WhatsApp, FaceTime, etc. Most cafes/restaurants offer free Wife as well. You can consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked, or setting your phone’s status to roaming, depending on your provider’s rates.
Meals are not included in the internship fee. You will need to prepare your own meals in the self-catering kitchen at the accommodation. Be sure to pack a lunch to bring to work, as there are no food options nearby the office.
Pretoria offers you a very unique internship experience with its great blend of historical significance, modern vibrancy, and verdant areas. The city’s diverse culinary scene and busy markets add a vibrant flair to your experience, while green areas such as the Rietvlei Nature Reserve and the renowned National Botanical Gardens offer amazing opportunities for outdoor exploration. Also, if you wish to see one of South Africa’s architectural masterpieces, you can go and visit the historical Union Buildings.
Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
In-person or Hybrid internship: Get in touch for accommodation options and rates
Remote internship
8 weeks USD 595
12 weeks USD 655
16 weeks USD 715
20 weeks USD 775
26 weeks USD 865
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs 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.
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.
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.
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!
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form and share your CV with us.
We’ll set up a call to get to know a bit more about you and your internship goals.
Your placement manager will confirm with the host organization that you are qualified for their current projects.
When your host site confirms that your application is being given strong consideration, verify your interest with a USD $250 deposit.
Meet with your host organization and move forward with your new role. We’re excited to help you plan your international internship!
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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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
US: +1 617 500 6179
UK registered office:
Raleigh Expeditions Ltd, Unit 10 Kingfisher Park, Headlands Business Park, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3NX, UK
US registered office:
ITG US LLC, 3015 E Franklin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55406 USA
SOCIAL
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
