"These exchanges, where we share our experiences of gender issues despite
living in very different contexts, unite us in pursuing similar goals for gender equality on a
global scale."
Theresa, 4th year. Conflict Studies and Human Rights with a Minor in Indigenous Studies
Host country: Malawi
Canadian NGO: World University Service Canada
Local NGO: NGO Kwathu Ndi Kwanu
My internship has been at a local NGO in Lilongwe called Kwathu Ndi Kwanu. This
organization advocates for sexual and reproductive health rights in Malawi. It also works to
provide economic opportunities for survivors of gender-based violence through skills
training, financial literacy programs, and by creating market connections for women. As a
woman passionate about gender issues and reproductive justice, I have found an internship
that aligns with my interests. One thing that is certain in this world is that patriarchy has left
no corner of the earth untouched. For this reason, it has been interesting to share my own
experiences with gender issues in Canada and to listen to the diverse experiences of gender
issues in Malawi. These exchanges, where we share our experiences of gender issues despite
living in very different contexts, unite us in pursuing similar goals for gender equality on a
global scale.
Prior to leaving for Malawi, I was very nervous and excited. However, as the days drew
closer, I was filled with anxiety. As someone who hasn't travelled much outside of North
America or travelled alone, I felt very unprepared. Change is scary, but it's always worth the
initial discomfort. My first week was filled with culture shock. I had a couple of moments
where I felt in over my head and doubted whether I would ever adjust to living in Lilongwe.
However, once I began working, I was surprised by how quickly I adjusted to my daily
routine and the public transportation.
When doing an internship abroad, you also have to adjust to a new work environment. This
was something I was worried about. Luckily, the small team of 7 at Kwathu Ndi Kwanu has
welcomed me into their office as one of their team members. I knew going into this that I was
only an intern, so I was prepared to be given intern tasks. Kwathu Ndi Kwanu, however, has
placed a great deal of trust in me and has granted me the freedom to work independently,
while also providing guidance about the direction they would like my tasks to go. Integrating
into the office has been extremely easy, all thanks to the team at Kwathu Ndi Kwanu. Not
only have they included me in team meetings, grant writing, and sought my input on their
projects but they have also made me feel at home in Lilongwe.
During my internship, I am collaborating with the Kwathu Ndi Kwanu team to make
communications materials, update their social media, and develop a marketing strategy and
campaign. Not only has this position allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge of
human rights, but it has also given me the opportunity to utilise my creativity and integrate it
into my work. This has involved graphic design and developing creative marketing ideas with
my colleagues. The team at Kwathu Ndi Kwanu has been very welcoming and has included
me in many of their projects, allowing me to learn about grant writing, monitoring and
evaluation, programs, and the financial department. This experience has allowed me to gain
insight into the inner workings of a small NGO. It has been fascinating to observe how
Kwathu Ndi Kwanu has developed innovative solutions to address challenges with limited
resources.
Studying for a degree in Conflict Studies and Human Rights, with a minor in
Indigenous Studies, has provided me with a foundational theoretical understanding of global
human rights issues and conflicts. A theoretical understanding of the world, however, does
not encompass lived experiences and the thoughts and opinions of others. My conversations
with people on the bus, taxi drivers, and colleagues have provided me with valuable insight
into the political, economic, and social realities of people living in Malawi. In these
discussions, I often find myself addressing the social issues present in Canada. These
conversations lead to engaging cross-cultural dialogues about politics, social issues, and the
economy. These everyday conversations with people have taught me much more than theory
ever could. It is through these everyday exchanges of knowledge with other people that we
learn the most.