Internship

Community Powered. Change Inspired.

Community Development Internship in Ghana

Work across diverse programs, find your niche, and cultivate communication and leadership skills to shape your career journey.

Durations: 2 - 12 weeks
Fieldwork hours40 hrs of fieldwork per week
Participant ratio1:6 staff to participant ratio
21 participant reviews
GVI experiencesIncludes GVI Experiences
Book with confidence
Travel flexibility, because life happens! Modify your booking, even up to 48 hours before departure. T&Cs apply.

Program information

This community development internship in Ghana is perfect for gender studies majors, aspiring lawyers, social workers, psychologists, educators or anyone passionate about sustainable impact. Gain hands-on experience while supporting education, health and empowerment initiatives. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone, acquire new skills and apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.

Overview
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
What's Included
Life on Base
Experiences
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Free time & cultural immersion
Reviews
Speak to alumni
Meet the team
Parent Info
Arrivals &
Flights
Your Impact
Our Ethics
Program Ethics
Qualifications & Training Options
Support & Safety
careers

Program overview

A typical day on this internship will include working with local community schools with early years students, supporting in the classroom, designing extra-curricular activities or conducting vocational training workshops covering topics like healthcare, gender equality or professional skills development. During the week, you’ll focus on internship projects, while weekends are yours to explore the surrounding area or simply relax at base with your fellow interns.

Projects are varied and will be decided by assessing the needs on the ground at the time. Typical project activities might include designing and delivering arts and crafts sessions with kindergarten and junior school students. It could involve coordinating computing skills workshops with school students from the local community. Additionally, you might be delivering presentations on professional skills, healthcare, gender equality or international development to community members and GVI partners.

All GVI internships are geared toward developing your leadership skills and allowing you to develop a variety of key soft and hard skills that will put you a step ahead of the pack.

Highlights

Global experience
Global experience
Level up your resume with real-world experience in community education, gender studies or international development.
Soak up the local vibes
Soak up the local vibes
Experience the warm and welcoming West African culture of the traditional fishing community of Kokrobite.
Hands-on fieldwork
Hands-on fieldwork
Engage in hands-on fieldwork to contribute to community efforts, initiate project ideas, and amplify your impact.
Locally-led projects
Locally-led projects
Play a part in community-driven programs, shaped by partner priorities, and make a positive impact where it’s needed most.
Personal development
Personal development
Develop personally with mentorship, training and career support, while gaining recognised qualifications and skills.
Use your skills for good
Use your skills for good
Customise your experience based on interests, apply skills to community projects, and develop additional transferable skills.
Contribute to long-term impact
Contribute to long-term impact
Participate in impactful projects, engage in hands-on community development, and contribute to local organisations.
Community immersion
Community immersion
Establish genuine connections with communities, immerse yourself in a unique way of life, and practise responsible and ethical travel.

Is this program for me?

This internship is specifically useful for someone who has or is actively studying the below subject areas at school, university or college, or has an interest in these subject areas.

  • Education
  • Liberal arts
  • English
  • History
  • Communication
  • Development studies
  • Gender studies
  • Peace and conflict studies
  • Law
  • Political science
  • Public health
  • Nursing
  • Social work
  • Psychology

Activities

Some of the example typical activities you could participate in on this program.

Community training
Community training
Learn about community project objectives and procedures, the local culture, and how to plan and evaluate community projects.
Vocational workshops
Vocational workshops
Lead sessions that inspire self-confidence and soft skills like public speaking that will help girls to progress both academically and personally.
Educational development
Educational development
Provide support for students through tutoring, educational games and extracurricular activities involving arts, crafts and music.
Leadership training
Leadership training
Learn how to plan and set team goals, create supportive team environments, and reflect on your own leadership style.
Leadership responsibilities
Leadership responsibilities
Take on additional responsibilities like conducting community needs analysis, creating pre/post workshop surveys or coordinating workshop sessions.
Personal project
Personal project
Work on an individual project that aligns with your interests, such as conducting research into local attitudes and approaches to development.
Mentorship
Mentorship
Meet weekly in a small group with other interns and an experienced mentor to receive project guidance and feedback on your leadership style.

Skills

  • Community development
  • Community empowerment
  • Cross-cultural communication
  • International sustainable development
  • Social issues
  • Youth engagement

Partners

Some of the partners we work with on base.

Local schools and academies
The Ghana Girl Guides Association
University of Ghana

Program details

 
Included in your program, at no extra cost.

Make the most of our unique programs with these exclusively curated local adventure and wellness experiences.

Offered once a month, expand your adventure with GVI Experiences. These are just some of the activities offered on your program!
Participate in a cultural food exchange
Participate in a cultural food exchange
Join an evening of West African dance and drumming
Join an evening of West African dance and drumming
Learn to make Ghanaian fruit smoothies
Learn to make Ghanaian fruit smoothies
Trek up Kokrobite Mountain
Trek up Kokrobite Mountain
Learn to surf on Kokrobite Beach
Learn to surf on Kokrobite Beach
Enjoy a Ghanaian fish BBQ on the beach
Enjoy a Ghanaian fish BBQ on the beach
Experience live music and acrobatics at Big Milly's Backyard
Experience live music and acrobatics at Big Milly's Backyard
Visit Solo Monkey Sanctuary
Visit Solo Monkey Sanctuary
Connect with our alumni
Want to connect with some of our past participants about their adventures? Get in touch with hundreds of friendly ambassadors all over the world who would be more than happy to answer any questions.
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Testimonial bg
21 reviews

Josephine Guillaud

18 Jul 2024
I loved my experience with GVI Ghana. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, the base was well organised and comfortable, and the projects were deeply enriching. Working in partner schools taught me a lot about Ghanaian culture, and it was a privilege to share my own knowledge and experiences to develop lesson plans I felt passionate about. The weekend trips were also superb, and a great way to discover the country. I would definitely recommend my GVI experience.

Zoe Yorke

21 Jun 2024
My experience at GVI Ghana has been amazing. I spent 8 weeks in Ghana as a Community Development intern and was able to take part in a variety of projects. As an intern, there is lots of opportunity to take the lead on projects, but there is still so much support from the staff to help you in every aspect. The provided training adequately prepared me for any part of the program that I was hesitant about when coming in, whether it was in regards to teaching or the culture and community here in Ghana. Any question, concern, or issue I've had, both before and during my time here, has been met with a prompt solution from someone experienced and knowledgeable in the field. There is a perfect balance between work life and social life on base; everyone is very dedicated and passionate about what they're there to do, but we were all able to create close bonds during non-work hours, especially through the trips and activities planned by GVI Ghana. I have had the best time at GVI Ghana and I could not recommend this experience enough to anyone considering coming.

Scarlett Trathan

23 May 2024
I had the best time, I felt so comfortable and supported the whole way through. Would recommend to anyone, it has had such a positive impact on my life and I have learnt so much. So sad to leave!

Justin Vandrunen

4 Apr 2024
I loved my visit here and enjoyed the culture, community and partnering schools. Truly brings perspective into life seeing how others live and the closeness within the community and friendliness among everyone.

Millicent Lyons

30 Mar 2024
My time with GVI Ghana was truly life-changing. From the warm welcome of Ghana's culture to the meaningful projects, every moment was impactful. Collaborating with local communities deepened my understanding of global interconnectedness. The bonds formed with volunteers and locals were invaluable, fostering personal growth and resilience. As my time here ends, I'm reluctant to leave. GVI Ghana offers more than a volunteer program; it's a transformative journey of cultural exchange and impactful service. I highly recommend future participants to seize this opportunity for growth and positive change.

Oisin McGrath

28 Mar 2024
I joined the GVI Ghana Community Development Internship Programme in February 2024. I had a fantastic experience and enjoyed the programme so much that I arranged a 2 week extension, meaning I spent 10 weeks in total with GVI Ghana. As part of my programme, I worked in local schools delivering lessons in areas such as the environment, JEDI (justice, education diversity and inclusion) and comparing Ghanaian culture to other cultures from around the world. Working in the schools was a wonderful experience as the teachers and students alike were enthusiastic and engaged. There is a wealth of knowledge on all these topics available on base to all volunteers/interns, meaning lesson plans are of a high standard and easy to teach to students. Overall, I could not recommend GVI Ghana more highly. The staff on base make the transition to life in Ghana as smooth as possible. Every aspect of GVI Ghana is well organised; from the transport to and from the airport to the accommodation on base. There is also sufficient free time to explore the local area and really immerse yourself into Ghanaian culture. GVI is hugely respected in the community due to the hard work of volunteers and interns and the culture created by the staff members on base.

Freya Rivett

31 Aug 2023
Being a part of GVI Ghana is an experience I will never forget. Every person I have met has offered me a valuable life lesson. My confidence has increased dramatically, not only in the classroom as a teacher, but also with speaking to people who come from all different backgrounds.

Joe Downie

30 Aug 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at GVI Ghana. The staff are incredibly passionate about the work that is done here which enables all of us to make a meaningful difference to the community in Kokrobite. The lessons we teach the children are designed and delivered in a way that maximises benefit to them both now and in the future. GVI Ghana have created an amazing culture of selflessly helping others and delivering continuous impact.

Ben Beale

4 Aug 2023
Absolutely loved it! The GVI staff are brilliant and the Ghanaian people are amazing. The projects are extremely relevant and beneficial, I would highly recommend to anyone and everyone. 

19 May 2023
Our partnership with GVI has been exciting and has grown stronger over the past 3 years. The opportunity to have their volunteers engage several units within their enclave has been very beneficial to help keep active Girl Guides in the area. Our collaboration at national level has also been great as they support us in our program implementation. Our members have also benefited from some of their training programs in the past couple of years. We look forward to making more impact in society as partners.

Madison Lanier

23 Apr 2023
When I decided to go to Ghana as an International Development intern, I was interested in development but I wasn’t sure how to use my passion in a meaningful and ethical way. By going to Ghana I was able to challenge myself in ways I had never been challenged before and left knowing what I wanted for a career. This was all while experiencing the most amazing culture and community. I was in Kokrobite for 2 months around a year and a half ago, but I use my experiences, skills and even mentorship from Matt everyday in my current role as Community Coordinator at GVI Madagascar. What Matt and his team are doing is incredible and feel so lucky to have crossed their path!

Carly Nelsen

23 Apr 2023
Dramatic title, I know, but very true. After COVID-19 and 5 years working for the US government, I was looking for a change. I spent hours researching volunteer programs, internships, and jobs abroad trying to find the best mix of personal development and community impact. After many conversations with my GVI rep and a virtual meeting with GVI-Ghana’s director, Matt, I felt confident GVI-Ghana was the best choice for me.I had a unique community development internship working with Matt and the social welfare program manager to research and write a program proposal for the organization. When I wasn’t working, I had an amazing time exploring Ghana, meeting incredible people from here and around the world, learning to surf, and eating great food. I also had the opportunity to meet with GVI’s CEO, who visited GVI-Ghana during that time.After my internship, I was offered a job with GVI-Ghana as Impact, Monitoring, Evaluation Office. I have now been in Ghana for 6 months working with Matt, staff, partners, and volunteers to bring quality projects to the community. Every day is different, challenging, fun, and rewarding. So, I can say with absolute confidence that my GVI-Ghana internship changed my life for the better.For those interested in volunteering/interning with GVI-Ghana or any other GVI base – ask questions and share any skills, interests, or expectations you might have with you GVI rep. That was very helpful for me in selecting the right program and making most of my time and talents here.For those already signed up—SO EXCITED FOR YOU! Come with an open mind to try new things, be challenged, grow, meet new people, and have fun. You’ll have an amazing time.

Ellie Dean

17 Mar 2023
I have had the best two months with GVI Ghana. I have met some amazing people from around the world and hope I can have lifelong friends. I've had a wonderful time meeting the community and had an amazing cultural experience.

Tom Grant

15 Dec 2022
Had a great time, and met some amazing people. if you're interested in education, this is a great program. Sometimes feels like a school field trip with some projects and workload, but it is up to you to take on more projects or not. If you come, sign up for 6plus weeks because 4 weeks is not enough.

Claire Archer

27 Apr 2022
GVI GHANA was the best experience of my life. Aside from the friends you make, you live in a wonderful community and build close bonds with them.

Claire Archer

31 Mar 2022
GVI GHANA was the best experience of my life . Aside from the friends you make, you live in the wonderful community in Ghana and build close bonds with them.

Berit Kirchner

7 Mar 2022
The staff knows and loves the area and also how to have fun which is necessary after long days. But I know that if I wasn't the type of person to continually advocate for myself and the work I want to do, I would not have enjoyed this program.

Jayren Dempsey

28 Feb 2022
My time spent working with GVI is a fulfilling experience as one could ask for and as an NGO provides an array of opportunities relating to a variety of interests for those who are considering doing in-field travel based volunteer work.Those who work for GVI will do their utmost to make your experience as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. Everything to pre-departure planning and education, travelling itself (even in the Covid19 climate), staying in your base and travelling around the country you visit is all carefully thought out and planned to help both seasoned and newbies to this kind of experience.I myself went to volunteer in Ghana for 4 weeks, which after coming home wasn't nearly enough time, whilst I was out there I met dozens of fellow volunteers which you'll likely remain in contact with after your time, many many locals who are always happy o see you and many amazing places in the country which are truly insta-worthy.

Jayren Dempsey

15 Feb 2022
I am very content with my time in GVI Ghana, there's very little I can fault.

Martha Kenny

27 Oct 2021
 was based doing a community internship in Kokrobite Ghana. My three months there taught me more about life than I would have ever imagined. Life long friends, heartfelt connections with the community and an amazing GVI family on base a long side pursuing the goals we set out to reach as a team. I personally focused on the teaching of menstrual hygiene, the delivery of menstruation packages and donations as well as setting up workouts to empower the girls. As well as doing everyday teaching in schools. I really appreciated the different opportunities that I got involved in.Reflecting on the stressful period of time in terms of covid and where would be safe to travel, GVI couldn’t have made me felt any safer. They kept on top of regulations and gave us access to regular testing and PPE when required.This life long experience will always be part of me and I’m forever grateful to have been part of the community and GVI. Thank you so much!

Rebecca Mercer

10 Aug 2019
As one of the first volunteers on the Ghana community development project, it was an incredibly exciting, fun and humbling experience.I learnt a huge amount on how projects like these are set up and run.Getting to work so closely with the local NGO, Action for Compassion in the beautiful Elmina Castle made me feel very grateful every day. The people from the AFC and the local area were so welcoming and kind and really made us feel apart of their lives and community through teaching us the local language and going out of their way to make sure we felt at home.Getting to work closely with AFC meant we could integrate easier into the local communities and make contact with women who we were targeting for our sewing project. Getting to know these women and learn about their lives was very special. Along with these women, the guys from AFC and the other volunteers and staff from GVI, I have made some life long friends.The area of Elmina was very beautiful but quiet making it the perfect base with the slightly larger town of Cape Coast very close by which was nice to spend the weekends or evenings.This experience has been very humbling, has taught me an incredible amount and really was so much fun!

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