Meet the remarkable Akanyijuka Felicity, a stand out intern at REGENERATE AFRICA, an NGO that stands as a beacon of excellence but also serves as a nurturing ground for passionate individuals like Felicity. With a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Social sciences majoring in gender studies from Makerere University. The overall objective of Felicity’s internship placement is to cultivate hands-on experience in project management, develop and enhance writing skills, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the NGO sector. This also includes actively contributing to and working with Rural Gender and Development Association (RUGADA), fostering valuable skills for project implementation within the non-profit realm. She has seamlessly integrated her academic knowledge with hands on experience during her internship
Within the population, health and environment sector, Felicity has demonstrated her proficiency in project organization, management, mobilization, event planning, implementation and with her flexibility she has also gained skills and knowledge in financial administration within the dynamic framework of Regenerate Africa. Through this, she has gained invaluable knowledge and skills which have truly added value to her personal and professional growth.
Her commitment towards achievement of the objectives of her internship placement at Regenerate Africa is demonstrated by her active participation in important efforts such as the participation in the production of the ground breaking Sexual Reproductive Health Rights, Gender and Climate change interconnection documentary spearheaded by Regenerate Africa where she participated in the interviewing of respondents from different sectors for example Ministry of Water and Environment, National Population Council, leaders and community members from Buikwe district and the shooting as well.
She also participated in the Pre COP 28 (Conference of Parties) meetings and discussions in preparation of the 28th Conference of Parties that is associated with international climate change discussions and meetings held under various international environmental agreements. This is held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Felicity participated in the Civil Society Organizations Pre-COP 28 event as a representative from RUGADA and she engaged herself in different thematic areas that were targeted to be discussed at COP 28 this year. This was followed by her participation in other thematic areas like adaptation, mitigation, loss and damage where she successfully brought in gender issues.
In addition to that she participated in the gender thematic working group meeting, which was hosted by Regenerate Africa as a member of Regenerate Africa and RUGADA. Felicity has not only participated in these events but has also been very active in activities within Regenerate Africa where she has translated theory into action and this includes her participation in the training of corps Africa volunteers. Here she shared her experience on life after campus in line with multi sectoral program implementation,
What sets Felicity apart is her unique journey, a journey that extends beyond Regenerate Africa. As she is gaining valuable insights and skills from Regenerate Africa, she is extending her learning by contributing to the growth of another NGO Rural Gender and Development Association (RUGADA). Here she developed her knowledge of NGO operations such as website management, article and blog writing, identifying potential grants and proposal writing, report generation, project coordination, procurement, financial administration, event organizing, creation of Memorandum of Understanding with other organizations, making potential partnerships that align with the organizations work.
Felicity’s internship, ongoing since August and extending until January 2024, is a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and growth. Her passion for gender issues, coupled with her proactive approach to every task positions her as a rising star in the NGO landscape. For the remaining time she will be Regenerate Africa, she is set to secure projects for RUGADA, write blogs and articles to post on social media platforms for both RUGADA and Regenerate Africa. She is very much open to any upcoming activities, events, that will be during her placement with Regenerate Africa.
Regenerate Africa not only provides a conducive environment for internship but also serves as a catalyst for personal and professional development. Felicity’s journey exemplifies how Regenerate Africa nurtures individuals, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving world of NGOs.