A Reflection Internship at Somali Public Agenda: A Life-Changing Journey of Learning and Growth

I am glad to have completed a two-month internship (and three online courses) with Somali Public Agenda (SPA). In September 2021, I contacted the SPA Director and asked him if they could offer me an internship opportunity in the future. While he welcomed my request and appreciated my interest, he told me that several candidates were waiting for the opportunity. He informed me that the first opportunity would be open for me in April 2022. He asked me if I could wait until then. I said ‘yes’.

After three months, in January, I began working as an English language teacher at one of Mogadishu’s schools. In late March 2022, I received a call from SPA as the start of my internship drew near. The fantastic news that I could begin the internship shortly was communicated to me by the SPA HR Officer Farhia Mohamud.

Fortunately, I had the opportunity to take a break from school and most of my coursework was almost finished. This allowed me to take the two months’ internship at SPA. The first day was one of the most memorable to me. The Executive Director of SPA gave me a warm welcome and introduced me to the team, although most of the team knew me from previous interactions. I met with professional and knowledgeable colleagues at SPA from whom I learned a lot.

 I was part of a group of young people who had been meticulously trained in how to write blog posts. Immediately after receiving the induction and orientation, I began my routine day-to-day work. During the internship I did different tasks such as taking SPA meeting minutes and producing weekly write-ups; supporting SPA forums and events; assisting the administration and HR offices with their daily tasks; managing the SPA library’s catalog and borrowing list; gathering data; participating in the meetings of the ongoing research projects; and carrying out any other tasks I was asked to do.

Those numerous activities pushed me to enhance my writing and interpersonal skills enormously. I managed to read 2 books on Somali studies from the SPA library. Three online courses were held for those on the SPA team, including the interns. These courses were essential for me because they enhanced my writing skills and listening skills.

During my internship, I developed a fresh feeling of professionalism and a better understanding of what it means to be a researcher. In my opinion, everyone should take advantage of the chance to do an internship at the start of their careers. I believe that my time at SPA has given me a fantastic look into my future and profession. I gained useful knowledge and discovered new features about myself and the outside world.

My internship has taught me a lot about my skill set and gave me confidence in my abilities. It has helped guide my career aspirations and will help me in my future career choices. I left my internship with a toolbox much fuller than when I started. The knowledge I gained will help me to face real-world challenges. My experience has brought me closer to my goals, and I am excited about what the future holds in store for me.

I received an incredible chance to work as an intern at SPA for two months. I will always remember it because of the immense experience I gained. The internship allowed me to work on a variety of projects. I had the chance to closely monitor and learn from the SPA team who were working on numerous research projects. The team was welcoming and helpful and offered me career advice. This internship has increased my interest in pursuing a career in research. I would love to stay in touch and perhaps speak to SPA colleagues regarding steps I should take in the future to pursue a career in this direction. Once again, thank you for a terrific two months.

Finally, I would like to thank the entire SPA team, who have supported me to gain my very first professional experience. After two months of doing the internship, the training has become more than just an internship for me. It was a life-changing opportunity full of learning, engagement, reflection, and self-development, which has transformed me into a confident person.