Bacaanda Foundation

Communications Intern

June - August 2016 • Huatulco, Oaxaca

What I liked

This was an exciting unique internship opportunity in Huatulco, Mexico. The Bacaanda Foundation is a non-governmental organization that helps indigenous communities through various programs, particularly in education. Being a communications intern at the foundation, I was able to immerse myself in a unique context and learn about indigenous communities in Oaxaca, Mexico. I liked learning about the challenges of the NGO in this particular context, and the importance of an organization's communication strategy working with different local actors, stakeholders and donors. Being interested in development, I also really enjoyed being exposed to a bottom up approach to philanthropy that is community-driven.

What I wish was different

I personally wish I gained better support during my internship. The internship was very independent, and I wish I had more hands-on skill guidance during my time as a Communications intern. Whereas some internships provide training and hands-on guidance to develop skills, this internship was very independent in nature and was delivery-focused. I wish I had more skill development, as this would have been more beneficial in the long-run for my professional development.

Advice

I would like to tell you to trust the process, and choose something that you'd really wish to explore. An internship is a perfect time to explore a career path of interest. Even if you did not have a perfect experience, it's as valuable and teaches you more about yourself & your interests and what you do, and do not want. Hence, really ask yourself: what do you want to get out of it? And don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone!

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