Question 1

How long should I intern for?

Accepted Answer

We strongly encourage that in order to get the most out of the project for yourself and the community you will be working with that you come for around three months. You can get a tourist visa for three months in South Africa so this is often easiest as well.

The longer you stay the better. We firmly believe that when you are working with a project for more than a few weeks you can begin to see the fruits of the seeds that you sow.

You will want to factor in enough time to explore your surroundings and travel in this beautiful country, South Africa.

Question 2

What kind of work will I be doing?

Accepted Answer

That really depends on you. We tailor your project according to your learning requirements. Coming in as a contributor to a project ensures that you not only help but you also learn and gain insights and valuable experience.

During your application process we take all your requirements into account and agree with you what work you will be doing during your time in South Africa. With over 100 diverse nonprofits, businesses, and academics we work with, you will be matched with one that best suits your unique skills and requirements.

Question 3

What do most nonprofits do?

Accepted Answer

The nonprofits we work closely with focus on education, early childhood development, health care, food security, sports, social work media, psychosocial, and economic empowerment, amongst others.

Don't worry if you are not trained in those specific fields, as organisations also need help with administration work, research, fundraising, public awareness and profiling, IT support, event organization, social media marketing, assistance with special projects and much more. There is a big need for skills and development at many of these nonprofits, so anything you bring to the table will bring lasting impact.

Question 4

Is it safe to be an intern in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

While there are many areas in South Africa that are affected by poverty and crime, we do our best to make sure that you are well looked after and live in a safe environment. All our partner organizations are conscious about safety, and due to the nature of the working environment we ask interns to be equally as conscious.

We will help by giving you advice on how to look after valuables and safe areas to move about in, but it is important to remember that some organizations work in communities that can be high risk.

Having travel insurance is mandatory and must be organized before your arrival. We can recommend different options, but have found that it is best to let interns choose their own insurance.

South Africans are known to be some of the world's friendliest people and we look forward to welcoming you.

Question 5

How much will it cost?

Accepted Answer

The costs can vary depending on many factors such as how long you come for, where you stay, etc. Each person will have their unique experience and we are completely transparent about what your fees go towards. We aim to create a cost-effective solution that ensures you have a great experience!

The program investment is US$3,000 per participant. It covers the professional and experiential learning component of your iKapa Impact journey — including project scoping, personalized placement and matching, program curation, in-country support, supervision, the experiential leadership track and final reporting.

As an intern you will need to cover your own flights, travel insurance, accommodation and living expenses. We can help you with finding accommodation or a host family. This cost will also vary, but you can start to budget around R6 000 – R9 000 per month for rent (roughly 400 – 600 USD).

We also recommend having your own transport, but services such as Uber are available. If you want to rent your own car, we will also help put you in touch with the right company.

For a seamless, fully curated experience, we can combine the program with accommodation, transport and selected cultural and tourism experiences into a personalized package — contact us for a tailored full-program quotation.

Question 6

Why do I have to pay for an internship placement?

Accepted Answer

Good question! While it can feel strange to pay for an unpaid placement, running iKapa Impact requires full-time staff who coordinate unique, tailor-made experiences just for you. For you to join impactful projects, create lasting change and receive 24/7 support, a great deal of behind-the-scenes work brings everything together.

We firmly believe the cost of an internship placement is worthwhile. You travel, meet incredible people who may become lifelong mentors and teachers, and develop skills that you will take into your future—all while contributing to communities in a responsible way.

Question 7

What is a Social Enterprise?

Accepted Answer

Social enterprises are businesses that are changing the world for the better. Like traditional businesses they aim to make a profit but it's what they do with their profits that sets them apart—they reinvest or donate them to create positive social change, meaning the organization can become self-sufficient and therefore sustainable in the long term.

Social Enterprises create jobs and opportunities for those most marginalised, transforming the communities they work in, and making the Sustainable Development Goals a reality.

It's business for good and when they profit, society profits. This is the model embedded into the ethos of iKapa Impact.

Develop Your Career.
Create Lasting Impact.
Experience South Africa.

Who is iKapa Impact for?

Students

Professionals

Postgraduates

Universities

Organizations

Real impact, backed by numbers

Founded by leaders with decades of experience

What Sets Us Apart?

Our Partners

What We Offer

Tailormade Experiences

When It Makes Sense for You

True South African Hospitality

Words From Past Interns

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Make a Difference?

Develop Your Career.Create Lasting Impact.Experience South Africa.