Community Development intern

What is your favorite travel memory?

My favorite travel memory from Malawi is actually from my trip to Mulanje Mountain, where I had the opportunity to hike to the summit and experience the breathtaking views.

As I climbed higher, the misty clouds surrounded me, and the sound of birdsong filled the air. The scenery was breathtaking, with rolling hills, waterfalls, and tea plantations stretching as far as the eye could see. But what made this experience truly unforgettable was the warmth and hospitality of the local guides and porters who accompanied me on the hike.

We shared stories, laughed, and sang together, creating a sense of connection and community that I'll always treasure. And when we finally reached the summit, the sense of accomplishment and wonder was overwhelming. It was a truly magical experience that I'll always carry with me.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Since joining my current company, I have undergone significant personal and professional growth. Working with international volunteers has broadened my perspective and helped me become more culturally aware and empathetic. I have learned to appreciate diverse viewpoints and approaches, which has enhanced my ability to collaborate and communicate effectively.

Through our various projects, including internships in hospitals and law firms, community empowerment initiatives, and sports projects, I have developed a deeper understanding of the importance of community engagement and social responsibility. I have seen firsthand the impact that our projects have on individuals and communities, and this has instilled in me a sense of purpose and drive to continue making a positive difference.

Professionally, I have honed my skills in project management, leadership, and communication. I have learned to navigate complex situations, prioritize tasks, and delegate responsibilities effectively. I have also become more confident in my ability to mentor and guide others, which has been rewarding and fulfilling.

One of the most significant areas of growth for me has been in my ability to adapt and be flexible. Working with volunteers from diverse backgrounds and coordinating projects with various stakeholders has taught me to be resilient and think on my feet. I have learned to embrace challenges and view them as opportunities for growth and learning.

Overall, my experience at this company has been transformative, and I feel grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow and develop as a professional and as a person. I am excited to continue learning and evolving in the years to come.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

One of the most inspiring stories I've heard from a return student was from a volunteer who had interned at our hospital project. She shared how she had worked closely with a local doctor to treat a young patient with a rare medical condition. Despite the challenges they faced, they were able to successfully treat the patient and see them recover.

What struck me most was when she said that the experience had not only deepened her passion for medicine but also given her a new perspective on the importance of cultural competence in healthcare. She realized that what she had learned in her home country wasn't always applicable in a different cultural context and that she needed to be adaptable and open-minded to provide the best care.

What I found particularly moving was when she shared how the experience had inspired her to pursue a career in global health and make a difference in underserved communities. It was heartwarming to see how our project had not only impacted the lives of the people she had worked with but also had a profound impact on her own life and career goals.

Stories like these remind me of the profound impact that our projects can have on both the communities we serve and the volunteers themselves. It's a testament to the power of cross-cultural exchange and the potential for growth and transformation that comes from working together to make a difference.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

If I could go on any program that our company offers, I would choose the Community Development and Sports Coaching program in Malawi. This program stands out to me because of its unique blend of community engagement, sports coaching, and cultural immersion.

I'm drawn to the opportunity to work alongside local coaches and community members to develop sports programs that promote youth development, health, and education. The chance to share my passion for sports while making a positive impact on young lives is incredibly exciting to me.

Additionally, I appreciate the program's focus on sustainable development and community-led initiatives, which aligns with our company's values and mission. I'm impressed by the program's emphasis on cultural exchange and language training, which would allow me to fully engage with the community and build meaningful relationships.

Malawi's warm and welcoming culture, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant communities make it an ideal destination for this program. I believe that this experience would be a life-changing opportunity to grow both personally and professionally while making a lasting impact in a beautiful and vibrant country.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Our company stands out from others in several ways, but what truly makes us unique is our commitment to cultural immersion and community-led initiatives. We believe in empowering local communities to drive positive change, rather than imposing external solutions. This approach not only yields more sustainable results but also fosters meaningful connections between our volunteers and the communities they serve.

One moment that stands out to me was when our team successfully implemented a water sanitation project in a rural Malawian village. What made this project exceptional was the collaborative effort between our volunteers, local leaders, and community members. Together, they designed and built a sustainable water system that has since improved the health and wellbeing of hundreds of villagers.

I was especially proud of my team for their dedication, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity throughout the project. They embraced the challenges of working in a resource-constrained environment and leveraged their diverse skills to find creative solutions. Seeing the impact of their hard work and witnessing the community's gratitude was truly humbling and inspiring. It was a testament to the power of collaboration and our team's unwavering commitment to making a positive difference.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I believe the biggest factor in being a successful company is having a clear purpose and values that drive every aspect of the organization. When a company has a strong sense of purpose, it creates a shared vision and direction that inspires and motivates employees, customers, and stakeholders alike.

Our company's purpose is to empower communities and make a positive impact on people's lives. This purpose is embedded in our DNA and guides our decision-making, from the programs we develop to the partnerships we form. It's what drives us to innovate, take risks, and continuously improve.

Additionally, I believe that a successful company must prioritize its people and culture. By fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment, we empower our team members to grow, learn, and thrive. This, in turn, enables us to deliver exceptional experiences for our customers and stakeholders.

Ultimately, a successful company is one that stays true to its purpose, values its people, and continuously adapts and innovates to make a meaningful difference in the world.