A New Chapter: Embracing Growth and Learning
My journey as a Communication and MEL Intern under Renewed Women’s Voice Leadership-SA has been filled with excitement and anticipation. I feel honored to be part of this impactful organization, which is supported by Global Affairs Canada. Gender Links plays a crucial role in empowering women’s rights organizations and advocating for gender equality among women and girls.
The internship officially began on Monday, 3rd November 2025, in Johannesburg. This opportunity represents a significant milestone in my personal and professional development. It also holds great potential for my home organization, as I plan to share all the knowledge and experiences gained during this internship.
Welcoming Environment and Onboarding Process
The staff at Renewed Women’s Voice Leadership-SA have been incredibly friendly and welcoming. On the first day, we participated in an onboarding induction that provided valuable insights into Global Affairs Canada, Renewed Women’s Voice Leadership South Africa, and Gender Links. Through this session, I now have a clear understanding of the distinctions between these entities.
On the second day, the onboarding process continued with online training and webinars featuring various speakers who shared insightful perspectives. One of the key takeaways from these sessions is the importance of continuous learning, which is particularly beneficial for someone like me from a small organization where such opportunities are limited.
Key Learnings and Experiences
One particularly informative session was focused on Sustainability and Fundraising, which addressed a knowledge gap in my home organization. This session provided practical strategies and tools that I can apply in my work. Additionally, I attended a MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) training session, where we were tasked with creating a story of change as part of the exercise.
As an intern, I am currently learning a lot and eagerly anticipating the upcoming months of the internship. I am excited to continue growing with Gender Links and proud to be part of an organization that is making a meaningful difference in the lives of women and girls.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Looking ahead, I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I gain during this internship to support my home organization. The experience has already broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of gender issues and organizational development. I believe that the lessons learned here will have a lasting impact on both my career and the communities I serve.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this dynamic team and look forward to contributing to the mission of Gender Links. The journey so far has been enlightening, and I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.