South Africa is known for being one of the more developed countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, and its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and dynamic society, have drawn visitors from near and far. Why not join the ranks of people who have fallen in love with South Africa?
South Africa is incredibly dynamic and quite diverse. There is plenty for you to see and learn. It has eleven official languages, and its country-wide motto is “ǃke e: ǀxarra ǁke,” or “Diverse people unite!” As you explore the country, you’ll likely witness a variety of ways of living and expressions of culture. Aside from distinctions between rural and urban living, for example, you could have opportunities to observe diverse religious practices, communication styles, food, and ways of travel and dress. Some of these might be familiar while others will surprise you in life-enriching ways.
South Africa also has a complex and important history. Apartheid, or the systematic division of society by race, once governed the country and caused its people incredible pain. However, the society is now post-apartheid, and you’ll likely observe people hard at work building bridges between communities, healing past hurts, and collaborating to cause what Archbishop Desmond TuTu called, “The Rainbow Nation,” or a diverse group of people now acting as one.
Thanks in part to its diversity and history, South Africa is culturally and artistically rich. Works of art, from paintings to carved wood to woven tapestries, fill everyday life. While you might find much of this country’s amazing art in smaller museums and galleries, nearly as much is available in small shops, alongside streets, and even in people’s homes. Dancing and singing are also a part of day-to-day life in parts of South Africa. You shouldn’t be surprised if you witness ceremonial or social singing and dancing on the streets or while visiting a friend in their home. Expression is an important part of South African culture, and you might see people using artistic expression socially, professionally, or politically (in peaceful protests, for example).
Finally, South Africa is a relatively modern country. It has well-developed private, public, and non-profit sectors, and students may find in their internship many ways to contribute to businesses, non-profits, and communities. Overall, South Africa may provide a socially, culturally, politically, and professionally stimulating backdrop for interning abroad. Imagine yourself heading there to develop your skills, contributing to a community, and potentially walking away with a stronger resume, academic credit (depending on the program), and a life-enhancing adventure. Why not jump in?
Where Can I Intern in South Africa?
As we mentioned, South Africa’s economy and professional and service sectors are quite developed. This means that you might enjoy internship opportunities in a variety of areas. Some examples of areas in which you might intern include:
- Engineering
- Business
- Arts
- Journalism
- Law
- Medical
- Social Sciences
To consider South Africa internships in these and other areas, use our search tool to browse programs by “Work Type.” There you can look for an area that suits your personal, professional, or academic interests and see what types of programs exist in South Africa.
What Are the Benefits of Interning Abroad in South Africa?
Despite their hunger to travel abroad, many students question whether or not it makes sense to intern in another country. Wouldn’t it be easier to simply intern at home and visit another country for a vacation? Perhaps, but there are many great reasons to intern in another country. Here are some:
- As an intern, you might gain a glimpse into South Africa culture that a tourist might not. As you get to know your colleagues, you might develop friendships that enable you to witness life for a local. You might learn about their families, homes, and lifestyles, for example. These relationships could enhance your personal and professional life and enable you to witness South Africa from an insider’s perspective.
- Often times, when we travel, our senses awaken. Unfamiliar sights and scenarios may help keep us sharpen our awareness. Being in this state as you intern and attend classes (if your internship has an academic component) could encourage you to pay closer attention and make connections between theory and practice that you might not make in a more familiar situation. As you explore South African society, you might find yourself thinking about and applying what you learn at school and on the job on a more regular basis.
- By participating in an internship, you might feel more like a local than a tourist. As you establish your regular route to work, develop a schedule, and become a regular at grocery stores, restaurants, and the like, you might start to see familiar faces and become familiar to others as well. And, as you contribute and develop your skills and knowledge alongside your colleagues, you may start to feel as though you are part of a particular community. Submersing yourself in daily life could allow for a particularly enriching experience.
- Finally, you may get to be responsible and embark on a fantastic adventure. You might get to develop your skills in your field, enhance your resume, earn academic credit, and go on safaris, see famous sights, meet new and interesting friends, and otherwise engage in South Africa’s wonder. Wouldn’t that be great?
What Can I See and Do in South Africa?
Here are five things to see and do in South Africa. This list is meant just to get you started! Numerous other opportunities await your arrival.
- Go to a “braai,” eat biltong (meat jerky), try mealie (a cornmeal dish), and otherwise partake in South African cuisine. If you’re adventurous, try an ostrich dish.
- If someone invites you to sing and dance, jump in! Don’t worry about how you look or sound. South African song and dance is often about community and connection. Accept the invitation and enjoy the experience!
- Go for a walk. Greet people! Look them in the eyes. Many of South African cities’ streets bustle with people, and while people may not look at you directly (often as a sign of respect), they likely want to connect and at least say hello. Learn how to say hello in some of the eleven different languages, and be a kind passerby.
- Go on safari and try to spot the infamous “Big Five:” lions, elephants, cape buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. (Keep yourself safe and do so with a guide!)
- Read about South African history and ask people about their perspectives and experiences. Listen closely. Be kind. Be open. Be connected.
How Can I Find Internship Programs in South Africa?
Now may be a wonderful time to say “yes” to a potentially life-enhancing opportunity. Whether you want to intern and work in South Africa for a year, a semester, or another amount of time, we likely have options for you! To explore them, check out your options below or use our search tool to refine your search. If you opt to refine your search, you can do so by city, term, or work type. As you find South Africa internships that you like, click on the program link and contact the provider for information or to register. Why not begin your journey now?
