Research, Human Rights, and Real Connections in Cape Town

Interning at a human rights research NGO in Cape Town was an incredibly rewarding experience. I chose Cape Town because I wanted to gain real-world experience in human rights, and South Africa—given its rich constitutional framework and history of social justice—was the perfect place to do that.

During my internship, I engaged in meaningful research, particularly on children’s rights, a field I’m deeply passionate about. After completing some foundational tasks, I was invited to contribute to one of the NGO’s official publications. This was a significant milestone for me, as it aligned with my goal of engaging in policy-relevant writing. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and approached this opportunity with the same care and commitment I brought to the rest of my work. Being surrounded by professionals dedicated to advocacy and policy reform was inspiring and gave me a deeper understanding of how law and development intersect to promote human dignity, equity, and justice.

Outside of work, Cape Town truly stole my heart. I’ll never forget seeing the African penguins at Simon’s Town, hiking to Cape Point with fellow interns, and going on a weekend safari that felt like stepping into a dream. These shared adventures created memories and friendships I’ll cherish for life.

The VACorps staff were phenomenal—always supportive, approachable, and genuinely committed to creating a meaningful experience for each intern. The weekly activities were not only fun but also helped us better understand South Africa’s history and culture.

I’m especially grateful for the community that VACorps fosters. Having that support system made a huge difference, both professionally and personally. Thank you, VACorps, for an unforgettable journey. I’m leaving Cape Town with new perspectives and a renewed passion for human rights work.