Overview
Community Development Internship in South Africa

By joining this internship you will make a real difference to the lives of orphans, aged from birth up to 8 years old, and gain invaluable hands on practical experience in a variety of fields including project management and team leadership. You will work outside of Cape Town, alongside a dedicated staff member, to implement educational programs which focuses on fun, interactive activities in an informal environment. These activities will enhance the children's development in basic English conversational skills, arts, music and drama as well as their gross and fine motor co-ordination. This project will ensure that these children will be able to develop to their full potential in a safe, creative and caring environment. When volunteering at the orphanage there are also many opportunities to explore this beautiful part of South Africa.

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I have travelled and worked in a number of countries and cultures around the world but never have I felt so comfortable so quickly, as I have done in South Africa and in particular the townships. We have been welcomed with open hearts and minds by all the people we come across.

Will Frost, Program Manager

What Difference Does This Internship Make?

GVI have paired up with a small but rapidly expanding children's home that caters for orphaned children. GVI will be designing an educational program to be implemented by GVI volunteers. Currently no such program exists and there is a desperate need at the home for extra hands and skills to help deliver and run these educational activities for the children.

Highlights

Volunteer and live in an attractive coastal village close to Cape Town and Stellenbosch, with direct exposure to local culture and communities. Gain an internationally recognised certificate in team leading. Optional side trips are available to Robben Island, Table Mountain, Cape Point and Penguins, Cape Town wildlife safari, wine tasting in Stellenbosch. For those travelling onwards there is easy access to the Garden Route and cheap domestic flights to Kruger National park from Cape Town.

Location

Gordons Bay is a picturesque coastal village nestled at the foot of the Hottentot Hollands Mountain Range, just outside Stellenbosch and 45 minutes from Cape Town. The area is home to beautiful swimming beaches, magnificent wine farms and popular restaurants and bars. Gordons Bay is also the beginning of the scenic and well-known Garden Route, making this the perfect base to explore the best sites and activities the Cape has to offer.

See Life on the internship page for more information

Field Conditions

Your accommodation will be in modern apartments with typically no more than 4 people per room and within walking distance of the beach, shops and restaurants. There is electricity, hot and cold showers, and flushing toilets. Access to the internet is available nearby. Food is simple and nutritional and will be prepared for you each day.

See Life on the internship page for more information