Social Justice Internship in Ecuador

What is the Social Justice Internship in Ecuador all about?

Join our Social Justice Internship program and help the equal distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within Ecuadorian society become a reality. As a social justice intern in Ecuador, you will contribute to the ultimate goal where everyone has equal economic, political and social rights and opportunities. 

Unfortunately, economic policies in Latin America have created some of the most inequitable societies in the world. Ecuador faces chronic human rights challenges, including weak institutions, poor prison conditions, violence against women, far-reaching restrictions on women’s and girls’ access to reproductive health care, and disregard for indigenous rights. Furthermore, massive Venezuelan immigration is posing urgent challenges, and there have been a series of xenophobic violent attacks and harassment against Venezuelans in recent years. Despite some new political openness in Ecuador, regional development continues to exclude large parts of the population.

The Social Justice Internship in Ecuador works with a multitude of local organizations in the areas of human rights, housing rights, nature rights, LGBTQ+ rights, gender violence and gender rights. Interns are matched to an organization based on their skills, experience and interests. Celebrate diversity in the communities in Ecuador as you work with Kaya as a social justice intern.

This program offers a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in areas such as human rights, social work, psychology, research, communication and non-profit development depending on your future career aspirations!

Role of the Social Justice Intern

This program gives interns a chance to make an impact on a variety of social justice issues faced by the Ecuadorian community. Intern with a local organization and help combat the real social justice issues they are facing. Which NGO you are placed with will depend on your studies, skill set, interests and desired learning outcomes.

If you’re passionate about LGBTQ+ rights then support a shelter that provides legal and psychological assistance, medical services along with a safe meeting place and social activities.

Alternatively, intern with an NGO that promotes indigenous communities rights, tackles gender-based violence and advocates for the rights of nature in regard to mining and petroleum exploitation

If land development and justice interest you then you could be placed with an NGO focused on community development and the right to housing, drinkable water and sanitation systems with sustainable, and responsible citizen-based approaches.

Why choose this social justice placement in Quito?

• Whether you are passionate about land development, female empowerment, LGBTQ+ rights, access to clean water or the protection of indigenous communities, gain experience with local Ecuadorian organizations in the areas of prevention, advocacy, victim support, and rehabilitation.
• Ensure the full exercise of civil, political, social, economic, cultural, and environmental rights for the population of Ecuador, and help create a more educated and sensitive society.
• Delve into local social justice issues and help with new initiatives to tackle them.
• Gain a professional insight that can support your future career whilst making a clear contribution to the overall goals and mission of the organization you are supporting

What skills do I need to be a Social Justice intern in Ecuador?

In order to be accepted on this social justice internship in Ecuador, you will be asked to go through an interview process to determine your eligibility and place you with an organization accordingly. Flexibility, patience, willingness to learn, dedication and passion for social justice are essential. Please come open-minded with a sensitive and respectful approach. Lastly, you should also possess the equivalent of an A2 beginner Spanish Level.

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!

While the COVID pandemic is still affecting travel, for this location, you will need to do a quarantine for the first 10 days. So choose your project length accordingly for pricing by adding in an extra week to your travel plans.

Read all about our project reopening response to COVID-19

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