More photos from this internship can be found here.
This internship offers hands-on experience in journalism and media, where you will contribute to meaningful storytelling while building a professional portfolio. It is an ideal opportunity for journalism and communications students, as well as anyone with a strong interest in writing or publishing.
South Africa is home to one of the world’s most outspoken and independent presses — often referred to as the “fourth estate.” During apartheid, the government censored media sympathetic to the anti-apartheid movement. Today, freedom of the press is firmly established, and journalists regularly challenge controversial government practices, making South Africa a dynamic and exciting environment for aspiring media professionals.
Through this internship, you will not only sharpen your skills but also engage with a press culture that values bold voices and plays a vital role in shaping democracy.
Our partner in Cape Town is South Africa's leading internship provider, with strong connections to a wide range of journalism outlets across the city. Interns are matched to host organisations and specific positions based on their skills, experience, and interests, as well as the needs and availability of each host site. Every placement offers valuable learning opportunities.
A clearly written cover letter and Individualised Placement Statement, submitted as part of the application process, will help ensure you are placed with a suitable organisation. In addition to placement support, the organisation provides housing assistance, weekly social and cultural outings, and 24/7 on-call emergency support.
Interns are individually placed within journalism organisations based on their skills, experience, and interests. Specific responsibilities vary by placement, but all positions provide valuable learning opportunities and professional growth. Possible internship areas include:
Academic Background
Skills / Experience
Other Requirements
Estimated One-Time Expenses
* Check with your university's Global Opportunities Office for their specific fee.
Estimated Monthly Expenses
The Host Site Fee Includes
Interns are accommodated in fully furnished, student-oriented housing located in Observatory, one of Cape Town's most vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhoods. Known locally as "Obz," this area is popular among students and young professionals for its lively atmosphere, cafés, and creative energy. Each intern has a private, fully furnished room and shares common living spaces, including a kitchen, lounge, bathroom, and laundry facilities.
Housing includes 24-hour security and regular housekeeping, with a housekeeper visiting at least twice a week, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. Interns pay a $100 cleaning fee and a $250 refundable housing deposit directly to the housing company (refunded if no damage occurs).
Wi-Fi is available at $20 per month for up to two devices, though speed and reliability may not match US standards. Other utility costs are split among housemates. The central location offers easy access to the city centre, beaches, and surrounding natural attractions, making it both convenient and culturally engaging.
Olivia — IE3 intern from Portland State University
"Having interned before, I expected to be making copies and answering phones. But here I am actually doing work that contributes to the company. I've written four articles for their blog, posted on their social media outlets, and last week I attended a media press release and wrote the article on it. It's amazing to work on content they are genuinely using. I can tell that as time goes on, my supervisor is gaining more confidence in me and giving me bigger tasks."
Some of the online articles Olivia wrote as an intern for Wild Magazine:
Lorin — IE3 intern from University of Oregon
Lorin majored in Advertising and, going into her internship, had a strong interest in photojournalism. She interned on the content marketing team at GetSmarter — a high-quality online degree programme partnered with Africa's top universities. Her work involved design, image sourcing, research, copy-editing, video production, and photography.
"On the first day, my impression of the workspace was one of excitement and awe. The office houses over 150 employees and offers complimentary coffee, gym classes, laundry services, and organic meals. I was greeted with a tour of the office and a welcoming display at my desk. My team and I even took a group-bonding hike up Lion's Head at sunrise on my third day of work."
"Don't be afraid to over-communicate about your position and what you have to offer. A few weeks in, I told my boss that I loved design and photography. After that conversation, I was given dedicated projects involving infographics, and a whole new project photographing places around Cape Town for their stock photo library. The lesson: speak up if you feel you have more to offer."
Margaret — IE3 intern from University of Oregon
"I've never worked in a professional journalism setting before. This internship has been very helpful because I've learned many different aspects of the professional journalism world, and I am now beginning to think about what part of that world I want to be involved in. I am often sent out to take photographs or interview someone outside the office — exciting trips with interesting people. I've also attended many events to write stories about, putting me in contact with many organisations and companies."
Heather — IE3 intern from Western Oregon University
"My greatest accomplishment was getting to interview Bryan Buckley, who directed the Oscar-nominated short film ASAD. Because of my enthusiasm for the magazine's creative platform, I was made manager of the site — choosing competition winners, messaging members, and promoting upcoming contests. My editor, Sarah, couldn't have been a more patient mentor. The experiences I had in South Africa have changed who I am and have shaken my worldview in all areas of life."
Kayla — IE3 intern from Southern Oregon University
Kayla worked as a photographer for The Big Issue magazine during her internship in Cape Town. The Big Issue is a monthly magazine sold by people experiencing homelessness and/or unemployment, with a mission to provide income generation opportunities and social support services for marginalised populations.
Important note: Because this is an individualised placement, applicants must describe in their cover letters the specific type of work and organisation that interests them. While we cannot guarantee to meet all of an applicant's wishes, the more information we have, the better a fit we are able to find.
Interns will be living in Observatory and will be supported by local host organisation Volunteer Adventure Corps (VAC). Living in Obz and experiencing its cultural and political energy will help interns better understand the complexities of the "new" South Africa.
Observatory is popular among the international student and volunteer community because it is located halfway between the city centre and the False Bay coastline. Visitors have a wide selection of outdoor activities to choose from, including hiking, surfing, scuba diving, golfing, outdoor concerts, and wine tasting. Cape Town is surrounded by oceans and is home to many beautiful beaches. The city centre known to Capetonians as the "bowl" is the ideal place for cultural excursions. This programme offers a unique opportunity to gain professional experience while living and working in one of the world's most iconic cities.
Fall: April 15
Winter: September 15
Spring: November 15
Summer:
-Relevant degree, such as Journalism, Broadcasting, English, photography, graphic design, etc.
-Relevant hands-on experience is helpful
-Candidates may be asked to submit samples of published or broadcast work