My Internship Experience at Africa Harvest
Internships often bridge the gap between classroom learning and the realities of professional work. For me, my time at Africa Harvest Biotech Foundation International was the perfect introduction to science, storytelling, communication, and organizational development.
Joining Africa Harvest happened most unexpectedly. My mother received a screenshot of the internship advert from a friend on WhatsApp and promptly sent it to me, urging me to apply. I was hesitant, but reached out to Mwende, the Communications Manager listed as the contact. After researching the organization, I wasn’t sure I was up to the task, but I applied anyway, excited and hopeful.
Two weeks passed after the interview with Mwende, and my anticipation turned into despair. Just as I was beginning to give up, I received a call confirming my placement. I was so happy I wanted to scream. Out of panic, I showed up several days early, worried about my maroon hair color. I had been taught that appearances matter and that first impressions make all the difference.
During my internship, I supported the communications department in several ways. I managed parts of the organization’s social media presence, ensuring content was both timely and engaging. This role pushed me to balance creativity with responsibility, as every post represented the organization’s voice. I wrote captions for social media posts and videos, making sure words and visuals complemented each other to highlight Africa Harvest’s mission. Through the review process with the Communications Manager, I learned how small details can significantly impact how audiences connect with content.
I also designed graphics for storytelling, digital posters for campaigns, and visuals for commemorative events. I realized how much thought goes into creating visuals that reinforce a message. Communication, I discovered, isn’t just about sharing information; it’s about making it relatable. I even worked at the front desk, interacting with guests and supporting administrative communication, something that terrified me at first since I’m not naturally talkative.
A highlight of my internship was being invited by Mwende to attend the Community of Practice (CoP) forum, hosted by the Mastercard Foundation for its implementing partners. Communications practitioners came together to explore how intentional storytelling can drive measurable impact while prioritizing ethics and participant safety. Under the theme “Aligning Impact Storytelling with Outcome Measurement and Safeguarding,” the forum showed how authentic, consent-driven narratives amplify youth voices, build trust, and inspire change. It was eye-opening to see behind-the-scenes collaborations and the focus on protecting the voices of those whose stories are told.
Looking back, the experience was both humbling and exciting. I gained practical skills in social media management, video editing, graphic design, and office responsibilities. More importantly, I saw how my small contributions supported the organization’s larger mission. Africa Harvest is about how science is communicated to farmers, donors, and communities. My role helped me see the power of storytelling in driving real change. It also made me more comfortable approaching colleagues who once felt intimidating.
A big thanks to Braian, the Accountant, and Allan, the Data Analyst Officer, who encouraged me to relax during my first week. Communications work is helping me be more open and less hesitant to speak up. It’s still a challenge, but not nearly as overwhelming as before.
I also became aware of areas where I need to grow. I still have much to learn about strategic communication planning, designing campaigns from start to finish, and refining my professional writing voice. At first, I second-guessed my tone and visuals with every draft, but feedback from Mwende and Rose, the Multimedia Officer, helped me improve. Rose patiently taught and supported me, while Mwende has been my pillar of strength and an incredible mentor. I could talk to her about both work and personal matters. Their guidance made this internship far better than I could have imagined.
In conclusion, my internship was more than just a line on my CV. It gave me the chance to step into a world I never thought possible—communication, and to see how creativity can directly serve social impact. I learned the value of a well-crafted story, a polished video, and even a thoughtful social media post. Most importantly, the experience gave me confidence that I can grow in this field. I want to build a meaningful career that aligns with my creative interests, develop personally and professionally, gain hands-on experience that will benefit me in the future, and be known as someone who took control of her life despite challenges.
I should also thank my mom for being so insistent. Countless times, she told me she dreamed of seeing me in a communication role. I shrugged it off at first, but her prayer was answered. I now know I will thrive in this field. All I needed was to believe in myself and give it my all. This is only the beginning, but it’s certainly the right one.
