if i could... Internships in Cape Town

Kaitlin Emmons is an energetic sun worshipper with a slight travel addiction. Equal parts beach lover and secret nerd, Kaitlin one day hopes to pursue a career in teaching, photography, traveling or international policy… we don’t know yet. Kaitlin graduated from Bridgewater State University with majors in Political Science and Studio Art and concentrations in International Affairs and Photography. South Africa will always have a special place in Kaitlin’s heart and she plans to return one day after she has explored the mysteries and adventures the rest of the world has to offer.

If I Could... offered unique internship opportunities that were not available through other programs at the most affordable price. I knew I wanted to return to South Africa and If I Could... had the perfect internship for me.

What separates If I Could from other internship providers in South Africa?

Candice: Our program is different because we give interns the opportunity to explore their skill boundaries. You don’t know what you can do until you try. Our intake process is rigorous and we always ensure that interns are matched with the most suitable organization in order to ensure a mutually beneficial relationship between organization and intern.

if i could… has been in operation since 2007, and we operate on a very personal level with all our interns. This means that we are able to give each intern the guidance and support that they need while they are in Cape Town. The students and graduates who participate in our program are thinkers, game-changers, achievers, leaders; they are focused and want to make a difference.

What can participants gain by participating in an international internship in Cape Town?

Candice: Firstly, getting any international exposure expands your mind in ways only other travelers will know. You learn, see and experience things that money cannot buy. I have travelled to many cities in the world and I can tell you, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

I am sure everyone says that about their city, the only difference here is that I am telling the truth. We boast mountains, beaches, mouthwatering delicacies, affordability and a kind people.

Interns will get to see a nation who is picking itself up from the Apartheid regime. Even our city planning structure is designed in a way that kept the idea of separate development alive. Remnants of a slave trade, ancient battles, twice colonized and the implementation of inhumane laws are so evident in day-to-day life in Cape Town.

Describe a typical day on this program.

Candice: Each internship is different depending on the host organization as well as on the intern’s skills, abilities and interest. It also depends on what the organizations priorities are. Most interns get to conduct research, are involved in internal and external communications, write articles and reports, community development program designing and so much more.

What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering your program?

Candice: Our program offers you not only an amazing experience and skills development opportunity; it also offers you peace of mind. All you do when you arrive is get to work.

We assist in arranging your placement with the most suitable host as well as comfortable and safe accommodation close to your place of work. We provide 24-hour in-country support, so in a nutshell…we’re the safest bet you will ever take.

Anything else you would like to share?

Candice: If you place value on life experiences as opposed to how much money you make, your life will be a rich one. One of my favorite poems end by saying:

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

And that’s what we about here at if i could…We make a difference.