Small Business Development Internship and Product Design in Africa

What is the Small Business Development Internship and Product Design in Africa all about?

There are many small businesses in Africa looking for the support of interns to share their ideas and time. In exchange, you will receive a hands-on experience in the challenges faced every day in developing nations’ business ventures. Whether you are interested in HR, finance, policies or marketing, these small businesses will appreciate your fresh perspectives and support with their activities. Bring your business skills and study experience and join us in South Africa or Swaziland to enhance the future of a social enterprise.

Why choose this Small Business Development Internship and Product Design programme in Africa?

As a student or someone with a business background, you can share your knowledge with local business owners and help them to develop business strategy, marketing materials and procedures. You will have the incredible opportunity to learn about the different elements of a small business in an international setting, which will be an asset to your CV/resume.

Role of the Business and Community Volunteer

This is a varied and interesting placement that gives you a unique look at the challenges faced by these businesses. You may be involved in the following activities:

• Capacity building and training of staff (topics dependent on experience)
• Assistance with production of items, introducing new product lines or working methods
• Development of strategies for marketing, including website design and social media use
• Creation of policies and procedures to manage human resources and finances
• Assistance with business development and identification of growth areas
• Development of monitoring and evaluation tools to identify the impact of business on the lives of the local community and customer engagement

Potential study related learning outcomes from this internship include:

• Creating and implementing practical policies, protocols and strategies
• Conducting research for business growth and strengthening market position
• Designing and using websites and social media in order to market and generate income
• Managing and running a small business, including finance and personnel management

You will attend weekly meetings to review your progress with the MD of the small business. At the end of your placement, you will be asked to present a final reflection to the MD and the local project team.

What skills do I need to be a Business and Product Design Intern?

Interns should be studying either business, social entrepreneurship, finance, HR, or marketing. Having previous experience in those sectors is also useful, even if you are not still studying. You will be supported during your placement by a dedicated mentor but will be expected to use your own initiative throughout. Bring a positive attitude, lots of ideas, and a willingness to work as part of a team to make the most out of this placement.

You will be asked to submit a CV/resume and a letter of motivation upon application. You will need to attend a telephone interview to discuss your expectations and suitability for this internship.

Travel during COVID times

The health and safety of our travelers and our local communities remain central to our plans for reopening countries and projects. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been adapting our programs and protocols to protect all those involved, and ask for everyone’s patience and collaboration as new rules are implemented in-country. For all projects, new standards of sanitation, procedures and social behaviors are in place, including new health and hygiene protocols and social distancing practices. You can read more here. Each location may be slightly different in the way they operate. We encourage you to inquire to your placement advisor to learn more about your specific project as you plan for your responsible return to travel!

Read all about our project reopening response to COVID-19

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