Teaghan Frid, International Studies and Modern Languages
Internship Country: Ghana
Canadian NGO: AFS Interculture Canada
Local NGO: Mckingtorch Africa
This internship has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but it has also been a journey of personal growth. From the moment I landed at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana, I experienced a myriad of feelings. There have been exhilarating highs and challenging lows. As I approach the final days of my internship, I find myself reflecting on the intense 12-week journey I've been on, and I am proud of the person I have become.
Working abroad with an NGO has been such an insightful experience. Over the course of this internship, I've had the opportunity to form connections with many different people in Ghana, as well as meet some people from all over the world. I've connected with many local Ghanaians and other people in situations similar to mine. Working at Mckingtorch Africa for those three months indeed was an incredible experience. At my organization, we had many different projects operating at once. My leading roles consisted of writing business policy and researching and applying for grant opportunities. Mckingtorch Africa is a small environmental initiative in Accra, Ghana, focused on building sustainable cities and communities. A lot of the work they do has a direct effect on the local community and has a strong emphasis on recycling and protecting our environment while ensuring we build a better and more sustainable future. Being able to contribute to an organization that is making a difference on the local level really solidified the idea that even the most minor actions can make some of the most significant differences.
My program at UOttawa is International Studies and Modern Languages. I learned a lot of practical knowledge from my program requirements, but sometimes, it can be hard to apply that knowledge in the real world. This internship has not only provided me with an opportunity to use what I have learned in the classroom but also to learn what can't be taught in a school setting. It's hard to replace real-life experience with theoretical knowledge. I really appreciated getting to see the NGO side of politics and getting to work in that field. In the fall, I will be going into the final year of my degree. Up until this point, I've been unsure about what kind of employment I hope to find once I graduate. However, this internship has given me a clear vision of the job opportunities available and how I can apply my degree in the employment world, filling me with hope for my future career.