It takes an intrepid traveler to go to Uganda as an isla, International Service Learning Alliance intern. To make an impact in the lives of the community they serve, isla interns are Continue reading “It takes Money and Grit”
Today marks two weeks and five days since I landed in Entebbe Airport to become the new International Program Coordinator at Foundation for Community Development and Empowerment (FCDE), the parent organization of isla, in Rukungiri District, Uganda. Traveling to a new place always excites me about things unknown and the Pearl of Africa doesn’t disappoint.
Written by Hafha Maani Ebrahimi for the Ugandan Sunday Monitor.
So the friend I was talking to and who seemed to be looking forward to traveling to East Africa, kept postponing her dream trip. The reasons were as varied as the colors of the rainbow. Once she cited political turmoil and instability, another time it was fear of malaria or Ebola and the excuses went on. It was time to have a serious chat with my friend. Continue reading “Do not postpone your trip to Africa”
Uganda, once a British protectorate, has two official languages, English and Swahili. Despite these being the official languages, in addition to English, the majority of the population speaks Luganda, the tongue of the Buganda people, or one of 50 local languages. Possessing a basic understanding of a local language increases your effectiveness in the field. Local people appreciate your effort to understand them and their communities.
Is worrying about learning the local language keeping you from accessing your intern potential? Fear no more. Below we have complied a list of the most important Rukiga (Rukungiri’s local language) words and phrases you need to get started!
Interested in learning more about our programs? Visit us at www.isla-serve.org
On the fence about committing yourself to an internship abroad? You may be just the person we’re looking for! Keep reading and see if we’re the right fit!
Continue reading “25 Signs an isla Internship is Right for You”
After working in international development for five years, the questions “How do I break into the industry?”, never fails to raise itself in conversation. “Well, how do you break into the industry?” you may ask. Step one is getting field experience abroad and learning to live outside your comfort zone. Continue reading “Meet the Intern: Lauren”
If you saw this title and were worried about the state of global climate, no need to pack for the snow if you’re heading to East Africa. I guess, unless you plan on summiting Rwenzori, Mt. Kenya, or Kilimanjaro. But, this post doesn’t focus on snowflakes or snow packed mountains, rather it focuses on leadership and cultural organizing.
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