Stéphan, DVM,
RDC,
Solidarité des Femmes pour le Développement Intégral (SOFEDI),
Program Assistant
I've always wanted to work with an organization and gain international experience. However, I never expected to do an internship for an international NGO online. This online internship has completely changed my way of looking at things. You can gain experience in the world of international development from the comfort of your own home.
When I submitted my internship application, I was convinced that it would be a good experience. So I applied to do my internship with the Canadian organization Alternatives, and then to work with Solidarité des femmes pour le développement intégral (SOFEDI). Solidarité des femmes pour le développement intégral is an organization based in Bukavu, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. I found this organization very interesting, especially as I myself come from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and like me, the organization deals with women's issues such as women's sexual health, violence against women, the situation of women in development and so on.
This experience is very pleasant for me. I learn new things every day. Working with SOFEDI and Alternatives has been the best experience for me. Despite my fears at the beginning of the internship, they were always there for me at the right time to help me overcome them and give my best. In the beginning it was very difficult, but now I understand that for a long-distance internship you need calm and patience, but also an adaptation time that can seem long.
I have no regrets whatsoever about embarking on this unique experience during my summer 2021. In my opinion, if you want to do a remote internship, don't be afraid. Don't tell yourself that the fact that it's remote will prevent you from gaining experience. On the contrary, think of all the advantages and experience I gained during those 12 weeks. If I had to do it all over again, I'd do it without hesitation.