Laura (pictured third from the left in the front row)  joined the VACorps program in February 2022 and participated in a law internship at an NGO that advances women’s rights and equality through strategic litigation, advocacy, and education. 

“I chose to come to Cape Town for my internship because there is so much to do here and heading to Cape Town’s summer from England’s winner was a no-brainer. Rowan was fantastic in helping me secure lots of internship options, but I chose to intern at the Women’s Legal Centre as it was the most well-aligned with my career ambitions at home.

I came for two months but time went far too quickly – for prospective interns, I would advise at least three months! I had a Cape Town bucket list that was already long and when I got here, I discovered there is even more to do. Two months flew by and I wish I had longer.

The thing I loved about interning here was the flexibility of my placement. My internship site was very understanding when I wanted to work remotely, and when I wanted to go into the office. They were always welcoming and everyone was super friendly. The office culture is vibrant and happy, completely different from London, and I will miss that dearly.

I will also miss all the VAC staff immensely. No question or query was ever too much – the support and availability from all staff is truly next level. Everyone communicated with me positively and enthusiastically and I truly wish VACorps all the success in the world in the future because you deserve it all. I appreciated the variety of weekly activities which were suitable for everyone’s tastes.

There were so many amazing moments in Cape Town but my favorites were definitely my trip to Kruger (I saw the big 5!), and the penguin beach.

I feel I have grown as a person and re-discovered myself again which I had lost amidst the pandemic. The whole trip was everything I expected and so much more, and I will always cherish the amazing memories I made here in Cape Town.”