Project Summary

Gain meaningful work experience in an area relevant to your studies or potential career choice by participating in the NGO and Community Service Internship in China. With a tailored placement to suit your interests and the needs of your career,  you will be based in a small or medium company in Beijing or Shanghai. It will be an amazing opportunity for you to gain an understanding of Chinese culture in and out of the work environment. With business networking events available for you to attend, this is a fantastic placement for those looking to build contacts within their career. There are thousands of opportunities in the NGO sector in China and they are very keen to have native English speakers on board. Although not supported financially, NGOs are accepted by the Chinese government, including western NGOs, as long as they pay their rent and adhere to Chinese laws and business rules. Positions can vary in their focus from marketing or fundraising to the day-to-day running of the organisation. Most will have several elements enabling interns to gain an all-round view of an NGO in China.

Why choose this project?

• Add practical experience to your CV/Resume in a new field making you stand out from the crowd.
• Gain experience that cannot be obtained at home while working within a multicultural team, experiencing the challenges facing a local organisation and learning about Chinese business, social and political norms.
• Share your skills and ideas as well as your English language to benefit the project and your fellow Chinese team members.

Role of the volunteer

As an NGO and Community Service intern in China, you will have the privilege of gaining an insight into how non-profit work in this fascinating country. The specific roles do vary depending on your experience and the duration of your internship (there is more choice available for those on longer placements) and your Mandarin proficiency. Placements may change at the last minute. School leavers or undergraduates with minimal knowledge in their field can expect to be working on general tasks. Interns with a higher level of expertise can expect to be involved in projects where they can apply their own industry experience and knowledge. Once the initial supervision period has been completed, experienced interns will be asked to work relatively unsupervised. All interns will learn about business etiquette and organisational dynamics. The internship will focus on marketing, fundraising, training and running activities. Interns will be assessed throughout their placement and will be expected to complete self-evaluations.  

Skills Required

Interns with a marketing training or community development background will be more attractive to NGOs. All applicants should have a good attitude, open mind and willingness to learn. Experience of international travel is preferred as you will be immersed in the working and social world of a different culture. All interns should speak and write a good level of English and an awareness of Mandarin is an advantage although lessons are included. Native Mandarin speakers are eligible for a discount. Appearance is important in the working environment in China. These placements are for those seeking to develop professionally rather just for general travel experience. All applicants will be expected to complete and submit paperwork in line with a tight schedule and the application process includes a Skype interview as well as submission of a full CV/Resume plus any supporting documentation. Interns should be in good health and are required to complete a Physical Examination Record for Foreigners.

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