Reviews

Persis Eskander

Before I left for my internship a lot of people were shocked to hear that I was planning on spending three months in Cape Town. They had heard and believed only the negative information that reached them. I know I won’t be the first to proudly dispel your fears (if you have any). South Africa is a beautiful country, full of culture, adventure, and excitement. Cape Town is without a doubt stunning. I don’t recall ever feeling quite as happy as I did waking up to look out at Table Mountain and the striking city below. But if mountains aren’t your thing, Cape Town is rich in beaches, bars and clubs, restaurants, and of course shops! I interned with a non-governmental human rights organization that specialized in economic and social rights for women and children, and all I can really say is that three months were not long enough. The ladies that run the office are fantastic, great minds and even greater hearts. Working at the regional office meant there was a lot of work to offload and from day 1 I was given responsibilities and tasks, so that I never felt like I was wasting time. Although it takes many years to be able to reap the rewards of your work in human rights, I was truly made to feel that I had contributed greatly. Working there strengthened my desire to pursue a career in human rights, and the ladies I worked with won’t be forgotten easily! Of course, what would a testimonial be, without a huge word of thanks to Connect-123 for organizing and facilitating the whole internship. They were at hand, providing assistance as soon as I expressed an interest in taking an internship, and their fastidious support was immensely relieving. They had an answer to every question and a solution to any problem. They were also fantastic in organizing weekly events, whether they were drinks at a cozy bar, or a great day out to see the sights on the weekends. Connect-123 gave me the opportunity to experience what will assuredly be one of the best summers of my life.

Kelsey Stewart

On my study abroad in Cape Town I had an internship with a branch of an international conservation organization. They dealt with fishery trade issues, I spent most of my time researching and gathering information about these issues and the possible resolutions for these problems. I learned so much about the environmental policy field that I would have never gotten in a classroom. I was able to see the day to day work and what it takes to get studies and new policy made. It was an invaluable experience made better by the fact that I was surrounded by the beauty and unique culture of South Africa. Connect-123 provided everything that I needed to have a rewarding and safe experience in Cape Town. I injured myself in an accident unrelated to my internship and the ladies of Connect-123 were so helpful and kind to me, they helped me figure out all the paperwork and bills and were with me every step of the way, I really can’t thank them enough. Overall it was a once in a lifetime experience in a beautiful and interesting place.

Dami Coker

I will always look back at the time I spent in Cape Town as one of the most eye-opening and exciting experiences I have had to date. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect at first but my internship in introduced me to a sector and concepts I’m not sure I would have been exposed to anywhere else. Over the course of three months I worked with an organisation that mentored and incubated social enterprises. In short, I worked with budding entrepreneurs who ran businesses with the aim of making profit but also having a positive social impact. From day one, I hit the ground running and was tasked with deliverables on a number of projects. One day I would help an entrepreneur write a business plan, another I would be developing a curriculum on social entrepreneurship and the day after I would be teaching modules that I helped write. I have a background in finance but I often found myself needing to be flexible and prepared to work on whatever projects needed the attention at the time, and I often had a major say in what direction we took certain projects. Sometimes it was overwhelming, but being out of my comfort zone and experiencing something new is what made the entire experience all the more worthwhile. My eyes were opened to a new way of tackling poverty reduction and social enterprise is a field I will be interested in and hopefully be involved in for a long time. Eimear was patient and thorough in helping me find the right internship and I can’t thank her enough for that. Aside from organising the internship, Connect-123 helped with a number of things making it easy for me to enjoy everything that Cape Town had to offer. Getting to know fellow interns and volunteers was probably the highlight of my stay – in my few months in South Africa I made a number of friends and built a network of like-minded people who I am sure I will cross paths with in the future, both professionally and socially. I am sure I will look back on this experience with not only a sense of achievement, but with memories of all the great people I met and had a chance to work with.

Esther Irving

My time in South Africa was inspiring as I worked government bodies, an advocacy NGO as well as helped run a workshop in an informal settlement while I was there. Despite my short period with Connect-123, they were extremely helpful in all matters and helped make my experience in Cape Town as fulfilling and rewarding as possible. The city is beautiful, the people welcoming and warm and there is so much to do! My favourite part of my time in South Africa was the warmth with which the people welcomed me and the multitude of jazz clubs and quirky little restaurants speckled around the city. It is a wonderful place to do an internship and I would highly recommend it.

Chris Androski

My experience in South Africa was truly amazing. The country was beautiful and my internship was awesome. I actually had an internship where I felt that I was truly making a difference. The people at Connect-123 were extremely helpful and made sure we were comfortable with both our living accommodations and volunteer experience. The best part about the entire trip was the people I met, both native South Africans and other volunteers. They made the experience all that it was. I can’t wait to get back to SA.

Josh Kohler

Working in South Africa through Connect-123 was a lot like studying abroad in the soul of a country that has been forgotten by the rest of the world. The tempo of society slowed down a little bit but the catchiness of the beat remained the same. The ease of traveling through the country and meeting people is similar to how easy it is visiting different stores in a shopping mall. South Africa is a place to go to listen, absorb, then reciprocate for the good of society. Unmatched in beauty, South Africa is absolutely wonderful. I worked for a non-profit organization that uses sport as a vehicle for youth leadership. I implemented an SMS based feedback program that allows participants of the program to report immediately to the organization. It saves time, paper, and allows for instant feedback which is priceless nowadays. When I wasn’t working on that though, there were children running around playing soccer or basketball and I was always welcome to shoot or kick around with kids who were taking a break from the everyday hardships of their lives. I couldn’t have asked for anything more.

Michelle Eichhorst

The three months I spent in Cape Town were some of the most rewarding of my life!  I interned with a child accident prevention organization.  There, I was able to research children’s safety and help conduct community workshops.   Not only did this internship fulfill my university requirements, but it gave me valuable real-life experience.  My co-workers were welcoming and eager to share all that South Africa had to offer.  I also really enjoyed living with other interns from around the world.  There was never a dull moment with all that there was to do in Cape Town! I was ready for an adventure, which is precisely what I got.  The Connect-123 staff were helpful and guided me throughout my time there, ensuring a positive experience.  I find that I am eager to share my time with others and enjoy reminiscing with those who were there.  I recommend interning in Cape Town for anyone who is outgoing, wants to gain valuable work experience, and is eager to meet wonderful new people.  I know I will not soon forget my time in South Africa!

Victor Torres

Connect-123 is the perfect organization for someone considering an internship or volunteer experience in Buenos Aires. They provide all the necessary support you’ll need, without being overly rigid or inflexible. They allow you to choose what you want out of the experience, and do everything they can to find exactly what you are looking for.  With Connect-123 not only do you get an opportunity for an internship that is tailored specifically for you, but you receive other benefits such as local contacts, the opportunity to meet like-minded, yet very different participants, and the comfort of having local support so you never feel like you’re on your own. In my opinion, doing an internship in Buenos Aires is really the best way to not only learn Spanish, but to actually immerse yourself in a new culture, and get a chance to learn why the people and place are the way they are, something that the typical tourist would never have an opportunity to do. The organization I work with has been very welcoming and they’ve done a great job of helping me overcome my second language deficiencies. I’ve seen a substantial improvement since I started in just a matter of weeks. Living the porteño (the name for citizens of Buenos Aires) life style, has broadened my horizons and has been one of the best experiences in my life!

Mischelle Nelson

The time I spent in Cape Town was invaluable. Connect-123 offered the perfect amount of structure, from going on excursions to planning group social events. But at the same time I had the opportunity to explore the city for myself. I worked at an HIV mobile clinic that services greater Cape Town. It was an amazing experience that allowed me to interact with people from all walks of life; from residents in informal settlements to medical students at UCT. Learning more about HIV testing and counseling has aided in my understanding of South African HIV policy and will help me with the work I will do in the US. I encourage anyone that has the slightest interest in this program to check it out. I fell in love with the city and will definitely be returning soon.

Therese B

This is coming from a person that, honestly, A) did not know what to expect, B) could not find work in a ‘troubling’ economy and C) graduated with a specialized degree.  I am also not much of a traveler (except for the awesome times I’ve had in the Philippines). But an opportunity like this was definitely something not to miss. When Melanie approached me with the first opportunity, I was already in doubt.  The reason was that the work description was based on heavy programming.  Programming has NEVER EVER been a strength of mine.  It has something I’ve always avoided in school and took the easy way out, but it occurred to me that this was probably a sign that I NEED to redeem myself and conquer this challenge.  And now I am SO VERY THANKFUL that I chose to accept the internship at the astronomical observatory. I never thought that I could be doing work with a research facility and have such a great mentor. He was always willing to share information, communicate, and teach me so many things about his field of work (even stupid questions!).  I was VERY excited to be able to have the chance to work with such a great team. My mentor and his field of work has really opened up my eyes and shown me what great opportunities were waiting for me back home.  What is ironic was that although my ‘American’ and ‘engineering’ education seems like the ‘wow factor’, there, I honestly was just looking for guidance and acceptance in an intense field of such great minds. That is exactly what Connect-123 and the research facility has done for me.  I think its safe to say that my mentor understood my feelings in the beginning and he was able to witness my transformation, where I really felt a part of the team, working on a great piece of astronomical telescope technology almost everyday.  My stay was intended to be only 3 months, which then got extended to 6 months, and then according to my passport, I had been in the country of South Africa for almost a year. I couldn’t believe how more excited I was about the project and the more things I was learning along the way. I’ve even started something that I never thought I could physically do in my life.  I started boxing at a local gym (which I miss VERY much) and not only has boxing been great for my health (mental and physical), but I got to meet more diverse locals; as well as others from neighbouring African nations.  I was even asked to fight at their local fight night (which I now regret not doing while I was there!).  I was also invited (which I gladly accepted) to attend boxing matches in the townships, which felt like a whole new beautiful cultural experience! In addition, Connect-123 really makes an effort to make sure that your stay in Cape Town is a positive experience. I felt so embarrassed to constantly bother them with a gazillion (yes, an engineering number!) questions about certain things, yet they were patient with me and consistently came back to me with information that guided me through my stay.  Meeting others that came to South Africa under Connect-123′s program was also a blessing.  I met many good people from all types of backgrounds and they have also become an inspiration to me along my journey.  I cannot forget them and look forward to continuing to stay in contact with them for the long term. Once again, thanks for everything.

Carolyn Robertson

I am an International Development Studies student from Winnipeg, MB (Canada). I had been to South Africa in 2004, and dreamt of returning ever since. For my practicum, I decided to return to Cape Town. I did a lot of research and came across Connect-123 who offered to find me a placement. I was interested in putting into practice some of what I’ve learned in school regarding Monitoring & Evaluation, especially with small scale community projects. Connect-123 set me up with an organization dedicated to supporting urban agriculture in the townships of Nyanga and Khayelitsha. On my first day I was taken on a tour of one of the community garden projects. I was overwhelmed with the obstacles this organization faced and overcame in bringing small scale agriculture back to South Africa. It is incredibly encouraging to see Cape Town’s urban poor growing fresh vegetables year round to feed their families.  The dedication of the staff, and the resilience of the gardeners continues to inspire and make me aware of the various social benefits stemming from such projects which focus on community building. Working in the heart of Nyanga also gave me the opportunity to learn a bit of Xhosa, as well as be exposed to what life is like for South Africa’s urban poor, and the challenges they face daily. Three months was not nearly enough time to soak in all the information I was attempting to process. It is an experience that has renewed my passion for this beautiful country, and has me wanting to come back for more. Thank you, Connect-123, for the wonderful job in finding me such a perfect place to learn and put my skills into practice!

Karen Ross

If you're looking for a program that will not only enhance your resume but also your personal and travel experiences, Connect-123 helps you far surpass these needs. My three months in Cape Town were filled with not only internship work and cultural engagements, but also the formation of life-long connections with co-workers, fellow interns, and locals. I interned at a human rights NGO which allowed me to see and work with the various facets of a non-profit organization. My passion for human rights and social studies was fuelled by the numerous opportunities that my internship and Connect-123 offered. When I wasn’t working, I was immersed in South African culture, traveling the coasts, townships, and winelands. From oceans, to mountains, to nightlife and the countryside, South Africa has so much to offer. However, my favorite part of my Cape Town experience was the refugee children with whom I was very lucky to work with and get to know. Thanks to Connect-123 and their continuous help and support throughout my internship, I had the most incredible experience of my life!

William Donnell

When I initially talked to Steven and the group at Connect-123 in Buenos Aires, I was excited about the opportunities that I could be a part of.  After experiencing what they had to offer, my expectations were definitely surpassed.  I was looking for a way to mix what I had studied, business administration, and the Spanish I had acquired abroad and at school. I really wanted my internship to be both in a Spanish speaking environment and to be career enhancing.  Connect-123 provided a perfect solution.  I worked in a financial group in the center of the city; my days ranged from working with the head of a mutual fund to giving input and doing research for an investment committee.  It was really interesting to see the business environment outside of the U.S., my home country.  I loved my time there, worked with some great people and learned a lot both in Finance and Spanish. Apart from the internship, my life in Buenos Aires was perfect.  The city is unbelievable, it would be hard to ever tire of endless asados (bbqs), a great nightlife and a diverse and international population.  The staff at Connect-123 knew the city well and always went out of their way to let me know where to go and what to expect.  I really felt that Connect-123 was working specifically for me; not only was my experience unique and custom tailored, it was rewarding on a personal and career development level as well.

Khant Khant Kyaw

I was in Cape Town, South Africa to teach Sex Education to teenagers with a non-profit NGO in July and August 2010. After these two months, I left Cape Town with fun memories, valuable knowledge on development and NGO work, and friendships I know would last for years; more than what I expected or asked for. I am thankful to all of Connect-123 ‘s staff that carefully ensure the intern’s expectations are met. When I was there, I worked with the staff of my host organization, going into schools and facilitating Life Orientation classes on Sex Education. I wanted to learn more and  Connect-123 found me another children’s literacy organization to work with. I also got a chance to help at a refugee organization for a short 3 days. As a result, I gained a wide range of firsthand experience in the types of organizations there are in Cape Town. In addition, the weekend outings and social nights Connect-123 organized served as a great venue for getting to know people with the same interests as I do. It has been almost a year since I was last in Cape Town, but I am still in close contact with my work colleagues, as well as my friends I made from all over the world!

Krista Saraniti

My name is Krista Saraniti and I am a Family Studies student at Ohio University. I thoroughly enjoyed my time volunteering in South Africa. The people at Connect-123 have a great Child Life program started and I can only see big things happening in the future at the Red Cross Hospital. Not only was the hospital a wonderful place to work at but an experience of a lifetime. This trip would never have happened if it weren’t for the Connect-123 staff. Their fun-loving attitude followed by their determination to make sure we all had a great time in South Africa really made the trip amazing. If I every have the opportunity to do back I would do it in a heartbeat!!!

Desiree Tucker

My life is forever changed from 12 weeks spent in Cape Town South, Africa. I walked into my first day of work, and quickly found out that I was overdressed and underprepared for working in the developing township of Khayelitsha. As I drove through the townships, passing children in the street, shacks sprawling through the township, I realized that this experience would be a great challenge. It was my task to coordinate the first Youth Career Expo in this area for black South African students, for a nonprofit organization. Its mission is mobilizing parents, teachers, learners, and community members to decrease the inequality and improve the quality of the South African school system.  I contacted over 60 financial institutions, governmental organizations, universities, colleges, and community development organizations to inform students of their opportunities post matriculation. To my surprise there were colleges who openly admitted that black South African learners in the townships were not their target group of recruitment, because if they did not have the money to move out of the townships they would do nothing more than depress and overwhelm their institution financially. I am forever indebted to the men and women at my host organisation, and it is an honor knowing I was a part of an organization that is at the forefront of today’s human rights struggle – quality education for all, beginning with those who have been and are currently deprived of adequate resources and opportunities for advancement. Their work is just beginning, as they will soon march to Parliament fighting for one library and one (trained) librarian in every school in South Africa! The presence of racial segregation and discrimination is ever present, but South Africa is quickly evolving, and there has never been a more exciting time to see the face of nations around the world fix their eyes to the rapid development and opportunities emerging from its shores. Amidst fierce environmental and social circumstances my work in Cape Town taught me that poverty is a very real factor of life for many citizens’ lives, but it does not consume their lives. I learned words like comrade and solidarity, principles young children are raised upon to create an innate sense of unity against a government which too often does not fulfill its promises, but for a people who is fervent in their reminders at what they are owed and what they deserve as South African citizens. Connect-123 is your continuous outstretched hand of support. Melanie, Gabby, and the rest of the staff are your personal motivation team, championing your success every step of the way throughout your internship. Their organized trips and frequent intern outings create a web of family and network of lasting friendships that not only make your trip unforgettable, but longing for your return once you are forced to depart. Immerse yourself into your internship experience, and I guarantee that with the foundation of Connect-123 and the time spent at your internship you will surface a reconstructed global citizen with limitless possibilities for your future!

Tiffany Han

Interning in Cape Town through Connect-123 opened my eyes to what a career in microfinance would look like. Before the internship, what I knew of microfinance came from articles and cursory research. But after being given real responsibilities that took me from the computer screen to local townships, I found passion in the work I was doing. The experience I gained from working in a new country and new field with new people taught me invaluable lessons as well. Beyond the work, Cape Town is an incredibly dynamic city that is perfect for adrenaline junkies and the culturally-inquisitive alike. From petting cheetahs to bungee jumping to shark cage diving, Cape Town has something to offer for everyone.

Andrew Tran

I was looking for a more personalized and unique experience abroad where I could step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself in a completely different culture. What Connect-123 offered was this and much more. After conversing with Steven about the possible opportunities that suited my academic curiosities, he found the perfect internship with an economic research group. I had the opportunity to work with professional economists dealing with social issues in Uganda as well as domestic issues facing South Africans. Without question, it was the people that made my time in Cape Town unforgettable. The staff at Connect were always there to answer my infinite questions about the city, commuting to work, and places to explore and experience. I could always count on Eimear’s input and guidance to suggest exciting and quirky things to do in the city. Connect would also organize outings that brought together all of the other students in the program. What makes Connect especially unique and alluring from university-run programs is the fact that the Connect attracts people from all over the world. I had the honor of meeting making lasting friendships with fellow students from many different countries also looking for that outside-the-box summer experience. My time in Cape Town this past summer was nothing short of life changing. I didn’t know what to expect when I made the decision to go, but I ended up having the most amazing summer with some pretty incredible people. From bungee jumping to walking with elephants, or just enjoying the sunset on top of Table Mountain, Cape Town will have you hooked!

Leah Howell

During my time in Cape Town I completed a 4-week internship for an NGO partnering with big business in order to progress goals set under the Sustainable Cape Town 2030 Vision. The internship provided me with an opportunity to explore how sustainable initiatives are being implemented from both bottom-up and top-down approaches. It also highlighted the challenges of achieving sustainability in a country with different political concerns than what I am used to. Through my host organization I was able to make contact with a range of stakeholders including government, renewable energy developers, advisory bodies, regional action groups and other NGOs. Connect-123 helped to make the experience memorable, the organised social events were great and I found the team to be energetic and helpful. Overall my internship allowed me to gain valuable practical skills in applying learnt theory to real world situations. Cape Town is a great place to better grasp the intricacies behind realizing sustainable development.

Amy Holter

I know that when I go back to the States I will be asked, “So how was South Africa?” I’ve been wondering what I could possibly say to that, and I think I’ve found an answer that is unfortunately as broad as the question itself. “It was everything.” Think of an adjective and it was Cape Town – stunning, exhilarating, challenging, painful, hilarious, breathtaking, terrifying, comforting, emotional, etc, etc, etc. I’ve built a life here, and life is full of everything.

Looking back, I would not trade my experience in Connect for anything. It was a beautiful opportunity to befriend and live with people from all over the world while still becoming part of the local South African community. I worked at a literacy organization for at-risk children. The organization operates in five schools around Cape Town. I became a “link” at one of the schools, which means that I ran the daily operations of the Literacy Centre at that school. I coordinated over 50 incredible volunteers and 76 adorable children and had the time of my life. The children are tutored twice a week and usually have more one-on-one time with their literacy mentor than with any other adult in their educational life. It was amazing to see the changes in the children over my six months and to be given such great responsibility in the organization. Sometimes significant responsibility can mean a stressful working environment, but I always felt supported and loved as part of the team. Connect led me to what truly was my perfect internship situation, and I know that my experience will follow me throughout my life.  If you’re questioning coming to this incredible place, don’t. There is a depth here that sinks into you, and I’ve met so many people that come here and end up staying. Whether or not you decide Cape Town is the place you wish you could spend your life, however, I promise you’ll have a blast, grow in ways you never imagined and go home with amazing stories to tell.