Gender-Based Violence Research Internship in Cape Town

My two months at The Safehouse in Cape Town have been nothing short of transformative. As an aspiring child and adolescent psychologist, this internship offered me an invaluable opportunity to delve into the realities of working with survivors of abuse, particularly women and children, and to make a meaningful impact. From the very beginning, I was struck by the resilience of the individuals who sought refuge at The Safehouse. Their courage to rebuild their lives amidst such adversity was humbling. Being part of a team that worked tirelessly to provide them with the support and tools they needed was both inspiring and rewarding. Throughout my time, I contributed to various aspects of the centre’s operations. I assisted with case management, facilitated therapeutic activities, and supported children in recreational sessions. Each interaction reaffirmed my passion for this field and deepened my understanding of the complexities of trauma and recovery. On a personal level, this experience was both challenging and enriching. I learned to navigate emotionally charged situations with empathy and professionalism. It enhanced my communication skills, adaptability, and ability to maintain boundaries—essential skills for a future psychologist. The Safehouse also highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. Working alongside social workers, house mothers, and management broadened my perspective on how interconnected efforts contribute to holistic care. As I reflect on this journey, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a vital cause. The lessons I’ve learned, the people I’ve met, and the stories I’ve heard will stay with me as I continue my path in psychology. This experience has further solidified my commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and advocating for their mental health and well-being. To anyone considering an internship with Roots, I wholeheartedly recommend it. It is a challenging yet deeply rewarding experience that will not only enhance your professional skills but also leave an indelible mark on your personal growth.

My main things I did were -- Co-facilitate workshops, sit in on SAFE meetings, go in to communities, write some reports, mostly experiencing the difference. Maybe highlight the fact that if you do an internship because it's mandatory for college, that you'll need to figure out with the organisation that you need an assignment and that that's the main key of your internship.

Moving to Africa was very scary for me but luckily through the internships Roots placed me with the transition was very easy. I worked in South Africa for three months in the GBV space and realized aiding survivors of GBV is something I am incredibly passionate about. After my time in South Africa I moved to Zambia to work in a school / community center. This internship in Zambia taught me a lot about all of the different aspects of running a non-profit as well as showing me different sectors I could potentially work in. Both of these internships have changed my life for the better and have helped me to figure out what I want my future career to look like.