Penly Senwamadi and Mbedzi Gilbert joined Heifer International South Africa (Heifer) in Limpopo Province, South Africa, as interns in 2011. Both had completed qualifications in Animal Production; Penly at Tshwane University of Technology and Gilbert at the University of Limpopo. Their internship was supported by South Africa's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). As their internship year comes to an end, Penly and Gilbert shared their thoughts on Heifer and their productive year.
Heifer International South Africa (Heifer) is a development organisation that works in partnership with impoverished communities to end hunger and poverty in South Africa and care for the Earth. Heifer believes that agriculture has a fundamental role to play in building a brighter future for youth in South Africa and welcomes several interns every year who share their passion and commitment with Heifer and in return get an opportunity to develop their own skills and learn about agriculture and community development.
"What I will miss most is interacting with farmers, sharing information and learning from agricultural technicians and advisors about modern farming," said Penly. "I enjoyed going out in the field to see how projects are progressing and how we can help improve the situation. The project I will remember most is Khongode Goat Project [in Vembe District, Limpopo Province] purely because it's full of young adults and I would love to see it succeed - the project members have passion and drive for farming so I will always remember it." Penly is originally from the village of Mapela near Mokopane. During her year as an intern, she has been involved in monitoring projects, collecting success stories, writing progress reports of active projects, compiling monthly plans, filing requisitions, advising farmers on intensive farming and collecting information. "We were always encouraged to participate in meetings," she said, "and that made me feel welcome."
Gilbert's responsibilities were similar: implementing livestock projects, developing animal management programmes, providing livestock trainings, conducting project monitoring and collecting and analysing data. His most memorable moment was visiting Khongode Goat Project. "It was a great opportunity not only because I got to travel, but because experiencing Heifer's work outside the office was amazing. Meeting with the project members (farmers) and Agricultural advisors from Limpopo's Department of Agriculture was interesting and fun. The project members of Khongode Goat Project are really friendly and welcoming. I had a blast working and traveling with Heifer's Limpopo Programme Manager, Elizabeth Lefoka, who was my mentor."
Gilbert has some advice for future interns. "Don't limit yourself; even if you are embarrassed or scared. The more you ask, the more you learn. Don't be afraid to try new things. Experience as much as you can. It will help you figure out what you want to do in your future. Always ask questions and remember to smile!"
Heifer's Limpopo team will miss Penly and Gilbert and the organisation wishes them luck as they move on to the next chapter in their lives. We look forward to welcoming several new interns in our various offices during 2012 through a longstanding partnership with DAFF. Limited other unpaid internship opportunities may also be available in 2012. Anyone interested in becoming an intern or volunteer with Heifer International South Africa is encouraged to contact the Heifer national office at heifersa@heifer.org.za
