A commitment to access and opportunity form the underlying principle of the overseas internships crafted by the Global Health Fellows Program (GHFP) for Summer 2009.
Working in conjunction with the
One World Foundation of New York, an enriching international experience has begun for youth traditionally underrepresented in the fields of global health, international development and human rights. Identifying candidates who have overcome obstacles and faced challenges while maintaining professional commitment and achieving academic success, yielded ten exceptional individuals. These “Young Leaders,” eager and ready to contribute their skills and enthusiasm in support of a developing-country NGO (Non-governmental organization), are interning in India, Cambodia, Senegal and Uganda.
A diverse cross section of young people committed to change
One of the interns is Abraham Velasquez, a South Bronx native, spoken word artist and teacher who works with children. He is posted to Tiny Toones (
www.tinytoonescambodia.com) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, a small, grassroots arts organization working with street children impacted by drugs and HIV/AIDS. Abraham knows about these issues first hand and is eager to expand his knowledge and experience at the international level.
Another intern, Nantrell Malveo, a survivor of Hurricane Katrina, studies nursing in her native New Orleans and grew up in a single parent household. Like Abraham, she understands the effects of socio-economic hardship and seeks ways to mitigate them in her own life and in the lives of others. Nantrell is interning with the Shifa-al-Asqam (Healers of the Sick) Socio Medical Center in Senegal, an organization committed to improving access to health care throughout West Africa.
Brief intern bios and photos.
“The opportunity to partner with the One World Foundation means that our interns will be assured of having an exceptional overseas experience that includes substantial leadership development activities,” said Dr. Steve Owens, GHFP’s Diversity and Internship Manager. “In addition, the program is aligned with the goals of our Diversity Initiative which seeks to develop pathways into the field of global health for individuals from underrepresented groups.”
Preparing for the tasks ahead
Beginning at the end of May, the interns had two days of training and orientation in GHFP’s Washington office, followed by a week of in-country training, dubbed the Leadership Development Institute, before they reported to their assigned NGOs. During this time, they learned first-hand about the challenges being faced in their host countries, and shared their own personal experiences about the challenges they face in the US. The training is infused with presentations, report-backs and collective brainstorming exercises that allow these individuals to improve their critical thinking and public speaking skills. The Leadership Development Institute also includes speakers from local and international NGOs and other important presenters who can provide context on the most pervasive social issues being faced in the host country.
The long-terms goals of the overseas internship program center on bringing new energy and insights into the field of global health while providing that critical international exposure and experience that can enhance future career opportunities. By connecting with people early on, at a pivotal decision making point in their lives, the internships may be the event that will not only open the door to a career in international health and development, but also guide them to the next level.
Join the
GHFP listerv To receive notice of internship opportunities for Summer 2010.
