My Leadership-in-Action Project with the WONDER Foundation was a transformative experience that lasted six weeks, during which I had the incredible opportunity to intern at their headquarters in Brixton, London. The organisation's mission to empower women and girls globally through education deeply resonated with me, and I was eager to contribute my skills and passion to support their cause, given my background as an asylum seeker.

During my time at WONDER Foundation, I had the privilege of working closely with the dedicated team members who are truly committed to making a positive impact on the lives of women and girls in over 20 countries. Here are some valuable lessons I learned and the goals I achieved during this enriching experience:

Goals, Achievements and Lessons

1. Understanding the Power of Education: Witnessing first-hand the transformative power of education in breaking the poverty cycle was an eye-opening experience. I saw how education not only equips women and girls with essential knowledge and skills but also instils confidence and empowers them to become leaders in their communities, unlocking their full potential.
2. Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity: WONDER works with local partners from diverse cultural backgrounds, and this taught me the importance of approaching projects with empathy and cultural sensitivity. Understanding the unique challenges and nuances in different regions allowed us to design tailored programs that better addressed the needs of the communities.
3. Fundraising and Advocacy: I actively participated in fundraising campaigns and advocacy efforts to garner support for the Foundation's projects. I learned the significance of effective communication in mobilising resources and gaining public attention for the cause. One of the tasks i completed was creating a report that summarised the charity’s achievements in the last 10 years which was sent out to donors and other stakeholders, inviting them to the 10 year anniversary ball.
4. Sustainable Change: One of the key takeaways from my time at WONDER Foundation was understanding the importance of creating sustainable change. By collaborating with local partners and focusing on long-term strategies, the Foundation ensures that the impact of their programs lasts beyond the initial intervention.
5. Leadership Development: As I engaged with the Foundation's team and observed their leadership styles, I gained valuable insights into different leadership approaches. This experience inspired me to reflect on my own leadership qualities and continuously seek growth and improvement.
6. Networking and Collaboration: Interning at WONDER Foundation allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals, volunteers, and professionals in the non-profit sector. Building a network of passionate individuals who share a common vision strengthened my belief in collective efforts to drive positive change.

As a result of my time at WONDER Foundation, I not only contributed to their mission but also experienced personal growth and development. My leadership-in-action project further ignited my commitment to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and education for women and girls worldwide. I am determined to carry forward the lessons learned and actively engage in philanthropy and advocacy in my future endeavours, ensuring that I remain an advocate for positive change and empowerment.

Advice to future interns

Congratulations on being a future intern at the WONDER Foundation! Here are some of my valuable pieces of advice to make the most of your experience and contribute effectively to the charity's mission:

1. Embrace the Mission: Familiarise yourself with the charity's mission, values, and objectives. Be passionate about empowering women and girls through education, as this enthusiasm will drive your commitment to making a positive impact during your internship.
2. Be Open to Learning: Approach your internship with an open mind and a willingness to learn. There will be numerous opportunities to gain new skills and insights, so embrace every chance to expand your knowledge and experiences.
3. Network and Build Relationships: Take the time to get to know your colleagues and other interns. Building positive relationships will not only enhance your overall experience but also open doors for potential collaborations and future opportunities.