Women's Support NGO Internship, South Africa

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

A multidisciplinary internship dedicated to fighting gender based violence and supporting victims

We invite you to a female empowerment nonprofit organization in Cape Town, South Africa, for all-round work experience. The organization supports victims of gender-based violence; something that is often described as a pandemic in South Africa. They do this through counseling, legal support, advocacy and policy development and awareness programs.

Your role as an intern will be multidisciplinary, and can be tailored to your individual skills and academic background. You’ll support the team on all levels, including with project coordination, impact assessment, research and communications. Either way, you’ll get a thorough understanding of the day to day running of a nonprofit organization.

This internship is a great opportunity if you’re studying Women’s or Gender Studies – or if you’re simply passionate about the issues – and are looking for practical work experience in an international organization. However, since the work around Gender Based Violence is intersectional, all students can apply their skill to the advancement of gender equality in South Africa through MOSAIC.

Learning outcomes of this Women’s Support NGO Internship internship;

  • Insights into gender and its relationship to violence issues in a South African context, and an understanding of effective ways of addressing these
  • An understanding of the management and development needs of a nonprofit organization at scale
  • Multifaceted experience in communications, development, impact assessment, innovation and coordination in the nonprofit sector
  • International work experience

ORGANIZATION

You’ll be part of MOSAIC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting gender based violence and providing support services 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 who form part of the majority of South Africa. 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 an intern on this program, your tasks will vary depending on your skills, experience, and interests, but they are likely to include;
  • Assist with monitoring & evaluation activities and impact reporting
  • Help with designing and running awareness campaigns
  • Assist with coordination of daily programs
  • Help manage communications channels
  • Should you have the relevant experience, you might assist with running empowerment sessions

Requirements

  • Strong organizational and communication skills
  • An interest in learning about and helping with the overall management of nonprofit projects
  • A flexible approach to work
  • A willingness to adapt to a foreign work environment
  • A passion for the work MOSAIC

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.

Communications

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.

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

Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.

What you’ll pay (2025 rates)

12 weeks USD 3,295

16 weeks USD 4,072

20 weeks USD 4,848

24 weeks USD 5,625

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 mixed-gender dorm room (up to 6 pax). If you prefer a smaller dorm size, female-only dorm, or single room – please contact us for availability and prices.
  • Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
  • Wifi access
  • Housekeeping service
  • Assistance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
  • An orientation program with your supervisor
  • Supervision and support during your stay
  • Regular check-ins during your internship with your supervisor
  • Troubleshooting if needed
  • A reference letter at the end of your internship
  • 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
SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDING

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: Gender Studies, Advocacy, Management, Communications
LENGTH: Min. 3 Months
COST: From USD 3,295

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Gain a wealth of practical experience in management, development, and communications within a nonprofit organization
  • Contribute to important women’s empowerment work
  • Get insights into the day to day running of a social impact initiative
  • Boost your resume with international work experience
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 (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.

GET STARTED

SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR

We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.

INTERNSHIP MATCHING

If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.

PAYMENT

If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.

CONFIRMATION

Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.

NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?

Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!

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