Afghan internship learning goes both ways

A young Afghan woman studying in Canada is gaining valuable work experience this summer as an intern in MEDA's Through the Garden Gate (TTGG) project in her home country.

Trent University student Parwana Ibrahimi, who has been studying in Canada since 2006, is working with MEDA's business development manager in Kabul to help with marketing and business development activities. She is designing business development training materials for non-literate women in the nine villages in Parwan province where TTGG operates.

Country manager Catherine Sobrevega was happy to provide Parwana with an internship opportunity at a time when the project is busy with trade fairs and exhibitions. And Parwana is benefitting from the experience.

"I am so glad I got a chance to meet these amazing people and be in such a great work place. I really enjoy working here and found it just as I had expected – great leadership, amazing staff, mutual respect and cooperation.

"I was concerned about visiting the villages before coming here, but after my first visit to three villages in Parwan, I was amazed to see village women's economic activities.
I am now determined to be able to contribute in helping them become more independent and aware of their rights socially and economically.

"In addition, I have been learning so much from Catherine and the MEDA team. I am happy to be able to contribute to MEDA's great work in Afghanistan."

In turn, others are learning from her, too. "Parwana is a good example for women here," notes Catherine, "both among our office staff and the women farmers we work with. Through Parwana's example, they can see that it's possible for a young girl to be educated outside of their country and come back to help them."

Share this article | Back to the MEDAzine