Office Administration Assistant

About the Program

The Business Administration Program affords young people the opportunity to explore South Africa while imparting skills and expertise in much needed developing communities. Not only do applicants get to immerse themselves in local culture, but explore areas such as the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. Interns are able to offer their services in an office environment, working at NGO’s, human rights offices etc.

1. Advocacy Research and Support

We would require interns with the equivalent of a masters’ level degree, or someone currently enrolled for such a degree. Please note that we do not use our interns/volunteers in direct advocacy work, which we believe requires contextual experience, but utilise such interns/volunteers in research, analysis, document development, logistics for meetings and events etc.

2. Media and Materials Development

While graduates would be very welcome, many undergraduates would be suitable for aspects of this work. We would require volunteers or interns with strong computer skills, and at the very least a high level of proficiency in MS Office and internet-based research; communications, public relations, photographic, website, social media and/ or public media experience.

3. Legal Research and Support

We would require interns with a law degree or who are senior law students, and who have strong research, analytical, writing and presentation skills.

4. Community Outreach

We require interns with a strong human rights ethos, knowledge of the law, adult education and/or community development experience to assist in activities and events in communities. As community work is complex, we prefer mature applicants. Undergraduates may be able to assist in support capacities.

5. Administrative and Logistics Support

While graduates would be very welcome, many undergraduates would be suitable for aspects of this work. They would need to be prepared to be involved in data capture and analysis, filing and resource management, materials compilation, events preparation and organisation, communication with stakeholders etc. We are looking for applicants who are especially efficient, organised and methodical in their work, with a good understanding of systems and logistics.

6. Fundraising (Administrative Support, Work on Specific Projects and Events)

While graduates would be very welcome, many undergraduates would be suitable for aspects of this work. We would require interns or volunteers to have some experience in a fundraising environment, for example, an alumni or development office, or have some experience in event planning. We are looking for applicants who are especially efficient, organised and methodical in their work, with the ability to do desk top research, and who have strong communication and presentation skills.

7. Human Resources

While graduates would be very welcome, many undergraduates would be suitable for aspects of this work. Interns or volunteers with knowledge of HR processes would be required. We require applicants who are especially efficient and organised and methodical in their work, with a good understanding of HR systems.

The Volunteer South Africa Programmes has set arrival dates and the programme begins on a Sunday and ends on a Saturday.  

- 03, 10 & 24 June

- 01, 08, 15 & 22 July

-05, 12, 19 & 26 August

-02, 09 & 16 September

-07, 14 & 28 October

-04 & 18 November

We understand that flights may be expensive and you may not always be able to secure a flight to arrive on set arrival dates, we are therefore happy to accommodate last minute bookings even participants who are only able to arrive on a day where they are able to secure an affordable flight.

Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Its beaches, such as Camp’s Bay, are world renown, and Cape Town’s beachfront and downtown areas are lively at any time. During the day it is easy to find artisans selling their crafts or outdoor cafes to enjoy the Mediterranean climate. At night, there are many excellent bars, clubs and restaurants where locals and foreigners can relax and socialize.
There are numerous cultural sites to visit, including the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the Castle of Good Hope. They reflect Cape Town’s long history and help explain why the city is one of the most multicultural in the word. Robben Island, the infamous prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during apartheid is a difficult but necessary stop. For outdoor lovers, Cape Town has a wide mix of opportunities. Table Mountain is a breathtaking spot to visit, and there are many nearby hills, mountains and trails that make for great biking, climbing and hiking. Many, like Lion’s Head Mountain, also offer stunning views over the city and ocean below. Join in on tours down the Garden Route and a Game Drive to spot the Big 5!