Krista - Honours BSocSc Conflict Studies and Human Rights
Host Country: Trinidad and Tobago
Canadian NGO: Mines Action Canada
Local NGO: WINAD – Women's Institute for Alternative Development
Applying for this internship has proven to be one of the most rewarding choices I've made during my university experience. I have the opportunity to travel and work abroad, which has undoubtedly enhanced my school and work experience. I've met amazing new people and will be making memories to cherish forever. It is truly an incredible opportunity I will always treasure. Adapting to life in Trinidad and Tobago has been both exciting and eye-opening. Despite initial concerns about safety in a developing country, I've been fortunate to encounter incredibly kind-hearted people who have made my transition smoother. While safety precautions are essential, I've found comfort in exploring the country alongside my roommate and her friends, who have graciously welcomed me into their vibrant community. One of the most enriching aspects of my internship with WINAD has been learning about their initiatives and how smaller NGOs like them navigate making change in their communities. WINAD is actively involved in various projects, one being to provide free legal services to female Venezuelan migrants entering Trinidad. I've learned about the ongoing economic and political crisis in Venezuela, which has led to many Venezuelans moving to neighboring countries, including Trinidad. Additionally, WINAD's long-standing Women's Conversations initiative has been incredibly insightful. Each year, the organization ventures into communities across Trinidad and Tobago to engage in conversations with women who have faced significant life challenges. These qualitative methods of research provide a safe haven for sharing and amplifying the voices of those often marginalized. In March, I am looking forward to helping with the 2024 Women's Conversations initiative. My workload is quite manageable as I primarily work from home in Trinidad, with occasional attendance at NGO meetings to gain insights into current issues. Every NGO will be different. For me, deadlines are provided, and I submit my work as I progress. The tasks assigned so far have been straightforward, involving research on Trinidad and the creation of summary reports. I've actively participated in numerous meetings and reviewed various proposals concerning the NGO's future planning. Currently, I'm focused on designing new covers for the Women's Conversations reports over the last 10 years. WINAD has been very clear that they want to make my experience here enjoyable and encourage me to explore the island and go to the beach as much as I can while balancing my work for the NGO. Despite the challenges, the dedication and collaborative spirit of the WINAD team inspire me. I am grateful for the invaluable lessons and experiences of moving abroad and learning as much as I can. Looking ahead, I'm excited to make the most of my time here, taking advantage of the tropical climate and aiding the local NGO