Film & Photography Internships in Cape Town

From my very first day and night in Cape Town, I felt a deep sense of nostalgia. Whether gazing out of my bedroom window, strolling the streets of Obs, or absorbing the air, water, and mountains, it felt as though I had been here before. This sensation was both confusing and comforting. Even before meeting the people who would become my friends and family, I felt a strong sense of belonging. This feeling was only reinforced during orientation and throughout the following three months. As I explored the city on tours and rode the red bus, I felt my life unfolding and expanding in ways I had never experienced before. I was introduced to new sights, sounds, thoughts, and emotions—nearly overwhelming, yet empowering as I saw myself growing more capable. I worked at a communications agency focused on partnering with brands that drive positive change. The environment was incredibly welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually enriching, with a team dedicated to improving the lives of others. Although the hours were manageable, the impact was profound. The office was small and intimate, providing a comforting, homey atmosphere. Lucky opportunities allowed me to travel and meet fascinating people across Cape Town and South Africa. For instance, I accompanied my boss to George for a two-day shoot in February, which offered a chance to explore the countryside and broaden my perspective on both South Africa and myself. I also completed a short documentary about gardening in the townships, which is a valuable addition to my filmmaking portfolio and a key marketing tool for Life Brand and the client. As I continued to embrace new activities, experiences, and people, I immersed myself fully in every moment. Now, three months later, I am the same person I was when I arrived, but only because of my time here. The coincidences and experiences make me wonder if this was all chance or fate. I am profoundly grateful for this place, these people, and this experience.

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In the middle of COVID, I was looking for the opportunity to get off of Zoom and travel abroad during an off-term from University. Luckily, I learned about VACorps through a friend and inquired about the program. I had abroad planned through my university for the past winter, but they were canceled due to the pandemic. So, the opportunity to travel to an amazing place like Cape Town was an opportunity I had to pursue. The process was extremely easy and helpful, and I began working at the educational non-profit in the Crossroads Township. Throughout my time at my internship site, I learned both about the history of townships and South Africa, and the relationship between education/after-school programs and crime/gangsterism. As for my specific work, I worked with my friend and fellow intern Mateo, helping to grow the online presence of the organization through media and video. I filmed and edited Portraits of Crossroads, an interview series showcasing the most prominent members of the Crossroads community. During my time in Cape Town, the VACorps staff ensured a smooth transition into the city and constant support through my stay.

My time in Cape Town through VA Corps allowed me to grow as a person and work on my specific goals in a comfortable, organized, and independent setting. VA Corps provided me with structure but also room to learn things and grow independently. The orientation was informative and provided for a great start in Cape Town. All the staff of VA Corps are extremely friendly and are always eager to help. I’m very appreciative of my time in Cape Town and for everyone that made it possible! My internship is a great introduction to film production and allows every intern to be involved in all sides of all the projects they take on. One of my main goals was to learn about some sides of film production that I did not receive at the one internship in film production I've completed. I have really enjoyed sitting in on meetings that the people at my internship have held. They have covered many different sides of film production and I feel that they have given me many valuable experiences.

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Never before have I experienced such amazing energy from a single place and its people. Cape Town has totally blown me away (literally). One of the many wonderful VAC interns I've met on my adventure once told me her theory f the "Mother CIty" energy: When the waves and the wind crash into the mountains of Cape Town, energy showers over the city and the people. It's totally got to be why everyone here is so happy and enthusiastic. I'm going to miss this place so much. I've learned a lot over the last three months in Cape Town and within my internship. I loved working alongside my mentor, Jenny Altschuler. She is a wonderful artist that helped me develop my body of work and myself through painting, sculpture, and photography. What began as a photography internship grew into an amazing artist residency that ended with the launching of my brand new professional website and two Cape Town exhibitions of my work. I could not have anticipated anything greater than this and this experience completely surpassed any expectations I may have had. To all those that are wondering whether they should take the leap and chose VAC; absolutely a thousand times YES you must. You will find an amazing group of supportive, adventurous people that will encourage you to go crazy and have fun in this wonderful Mother City. Nothing will help you be you more than living here in Cape Town.

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VAC coordinated my film production internship with BigSky Productions based in Cape Town, South Africa. My experience there was invaluable. I was able to assist the team on major shoots with celebrities, as well as, use their equipment to film for my own projects. This internship helped me to gain experience on all levels and refine the necessary skills it takes to thrive in the film industry. Now, I have my college degree and am gainfully employed at a production company back in the states. I credit much of my success to my experience at BigSky in Cape Town.

Having never been over seas before, VAC was a godsend in helping me become acclimated to Cape Town, South Africa. Thanks to VAC, I was able to go to Cape Town immediately part of a community of people where I could go hiking with, scuba diving with, dining with, and ultimately push myself to find new inner strengths. Through the program, I was able to take some Xhosa speaking classes, become a certified scuba diver, and intern for Black Media where I filmed/edited numerous events (surfing competitions, DJ conventions, music festivals, soccer tournaments, etc.) Sure you could probably find many programs that provide similar services, but I guarantee you will not find people as inspiring and fun as the VAC staff. They are always looking to have a good time, and are willing to share that with everyone. On the other hand, When I had to go to the hospital for health concerns, VAC also made me feel comfortable and secure as they constantly checked in to see how I was doing. I went to Cape Town to gain an internship experience (which VAC also helped me locate and secure), but thanks to the VAC staff I gained so much more. When you are looking to join an internship program of any kind you should be looking for the ones that are going to cultivate your skills in all aspects of life. At its core, this is what Volunteer Adventure Corps strives for. I definitely recommend the program to anyone looking for an adventure.