South Africa-Washington Internship Program

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Mzimkhulu Ceko, Michael Currin and Olebile Gaobepe at the Irish Gala 2007

Statement of Values

The South Africa-Washington Internship Program-Leadership through service hereby:

• Acknowledges the need for young people to become involved in determining the future of the Republic of South Africa;

• Encourages personal and professional development through rigorous community service and outreach, acknowledging that a strong service ethos is a characteristic exhibited by all great leaders;

• Believes that leadership is predicated on a responsibility to others and a commitment to service;

• Believes that hands-on experience is vital to an individual’s self-confidence and ability to exceed expectations;

• Trusts that a course of mutual understanding and shared experiences will foster a common ground for a diverse group of individuals that transcends gender, race and ethnicity;

• Believes that engaging young leaders from around the world engenders fresh perspectives, generates new ideas and solutions, and an appreciation of world views.

Program Highlights

• Students participate in a prestigious six-week internship in Washington, DC to develop their potential in a professional environment. Committed intern placements include the World Bank, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Center for International Private Enterprise, the Center for Strategic International Studies and the Council for a Community of Democracies;

• Students conduct case studies of inspiring American leaders and discuss and debate “hot button” issues specific to South Africa, Northern Ireland, and America in a diverse and open atmosphere;

• SAWIP trains its students in communication and public speaking, encouraging each student to partake in a public leadership role – networking engagements include a reception with the Congressional Black Caucus at the Capitol, a speaking event at the South African Embassy and outreach to some of Washington, DC’s public schools;

• Community service in South Africa and Washington, DC is heavily emphasized in order to promote active citizenship – the 2007 pilot program developed close ties with the Whitman-Walker Clinic in Washington, and SAWIP is working with an advisory committee in South Africa to establish a comprehensive service program with a township housing project in 2009;

• Students live with American host families during their stay in Washington in order to gain a perspective on American life and share their stories of change and challenge in South Africa.