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V.I.P 2019 – Volunteering in Pretoria

A unique opportunity to work as an intern supporting community projects in Pretoria, South Africa

 

The internships are open to two young women between the ages of 18 and 25. During the six-month stay in 2019, the selected candidates will be working to support staff in two schools and at Lerato House.  The actual placement or placements will be decided on arrival – matching the skills of the candidates to the needs of the projects.

At Makgatho Primary School, pictured left, extra support is needed in the library helping the pupils with their reading and IT.  There will be many opportunities to join in with school activities in general and to interact with families in the local township.  The school was named after Nelson Mandela’s oldest son.

Motheong Primary School is a fee-paying Pre-School and Primary School, but many bursaries are given to children from local economically disadvantaged families.  VIP interns will be able to give extra support to the teaching staff in various subjects including sport, music and art.  The school has an excellent reputation both for the standard of its teaching and the quality of care that it provides.     

The Lerato House mission is to help vulnerable young women and girls aged between 11 and 25 years rebuild their lives and empower them to take up their rightful place in society or within their families. At the outreach and drop-in centres, VIP volunteers will be included in delivering the rehabilitation and support service.  There will be opportunities to help with office work and childcare.

The initiative is sponsored by SI Southern England clubs, but the successful candidates will be required to contribute £1,500 towards the overall costs.  Accommodation will be provided and airline tickets paid for, but the interns will need to cover all medical, insurance and visa costs that are incurred prior to departure.

Soroptimist International of Southern England has strong ties with sister Soroptimists in South Africa and especially with SI Pretoria-Tshwane.   SI is an all women organization that is committed to educating, empowering and enabling girls and women globally.  This opportunity is open to inspired young women who are keen to offer their time and talents to help others, learn new skills and gain experience.  They should have a real interest in other cultures and be confident enough to face the challenge of a new environment. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential. This will enable the interns to work happily as part of a team and ensure that they develop a meaningful relationship with the South African Soroptimists who will act as hosts during their stay.

Please contact infovipsise@gmail.com for an application form.

(This volunteering opportunity is available only for female candidates. Under the exemption in section 159 of the qualities Act 2010, the role includes working with vulnerable and disadvantaged women and young girls.)