Teaghan Frid, International Studies and Modern Languages
Internship Country: Ghana
Canadian NGO: AFS Interculture Canada
Local NGO: Mckingtorch Africa
Hi everybody!
I’m approaching the halfway point in this internship and can safely say I have learned so much in just these past few weeks. I’ve been working for a local NGO called Mckingtorch Africa. They are an environmental organization in Accra, Ghana, with a focus on reducing plastic waste and empowering individuals in the fight against climate change. Much of the work they do aligns with the UN’s sustainable development goal (SDG) #7, Sustainable Communities and Cities. My daily duties range from working on Instagram campaigns for World Environment Day to researching different funding opportunities for the organization. I have learned that environmental issues affect every single person all over the globe, and everyone can contribute to the solution in their own way. The key comes in continuous action and advocacy. The skills I’ve learned so far in this internship will undoubtedly follow me back to Canada and contribute to both my academic and professional careers. Before this internship, I didn’t have much experience working in a business/office setting, but I have already acquired abilities that will be useful when looking for future employment or when working on projects at school.
Deciding to do an international internship is not an easy decision and requires a lot of thinking before one decides it’s something they genuinely want to pursue. Not only is it a costly experience, but there is also a lot of prep-work and planning that must be done before you depart on your journey. Facing the unknown can be pretty scary, and putting yourself in a situation that is entirely outside your comfort zone is daunting for anybody. That being said, I believe that when you go outside your comfort zone, you open yourself up to some truly unique experiences that you would have never had the chance at. Without taking that leap, I never would have ended up in Ghana and meeting some of the kindest, most amazing people I’ve ever had the pleasure of engaging with. I’m no stranger to travelling, but this is the first time I’ve really had to adapt to a new culture that is entirely different from what I was used to. Seeing the beauty and liveliness of Ghanaian culture is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned with people back home in my own life. I’ve already gained so much from this experience and am excited so see what the coming weeks hold in store while I continue on this journey!