Laurence, Conflict Studies and Human Rights,
CECI Haiti,
Gender Research Officer
If you’re reading this, I hope you are just as passionate as I am about major international issues. Instead of spending my final semester in a classroom, I chose to participate in the virtual international internship, which counts for six university credits. Here’s a glimpse into my virtual experience in Haiti, where I worked as a Gender Research Officer for the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI).
First, let me say that I have no regrets about completing my internship remotely—it’s actually what made this opportunity possible for me. Since I have a student job that requires my presence in Quebec, I wouldn’t have been able to relocate to Haiti for three months. That being said, I truly hope that the University of Ottawa finds a way to keep this virtual program available even in post-COVID times.
For those wondering what international internships are all about, the main goal is to offer students professional experience while also enhancing their CVs before pursuing a master’s degree. Virtual volunteering, in particular, helps develop adaptability—a skill that goes far beyond what we learn in university courses. This experience strengthens our professional competencies, making them applicable no matter which career path we choose.
Now, as you might have guessed, I have a strong bias in favor of the CECI team in Haiti. Working with them, I had the chance to contribute to a variety of projects, even if my role was small at times. My main responsibilities included participating in a gender audit for a partner organization, assessing how gender equality is integrated into their policies and operations. I also helped develop gender training for thirty employees, covering fundamental concepts and focusing on how to integrate a gender-based approach through workshops.
In the coming weeks, I will conduct research on barriers faced by women in non-traditional careers, which will contribute to an upcoming conference. Additionally, I will study the rights of LGBTIQ individuals and women with physical or intellectual disabilities in Haitian society. My final responsibility before completing my internship will be designing a toolkit to help partner organizations integrate a gender equality approach into their work.
I want to emphasize the importance and effectiveness of virtual volunteering, as I believe it is often underestimated. There is a common perception that on-site internships are more valuable, but in reality, both have their unique strengths. Like fieldwork, virtual internships aren’t for everyone! They come with challenges and obstacles, but that’s exactly why international internships help shape the leaders of tomorrow.