By Yassmine Eladib | Graduates and Alumni Team Coordinator
As part of their professional development programming, AAI Scholars complete an internship in Sub-Saharan Africa during their undergraduate studies. Through their internships, the scholars gain real-world experience, improve their skills, and learn more about their field of interest.
Tomé is an AAI Scholar from Mozambique currently studying International Relations at FMU University in São Paulo, Brazil. He recently completed an internship at the High Commission of Mozambique in Kenya. For two months, he had the opportunity to learn first-hand about the structure of a diplomatic mission and the dynamics of work in the diplomatic field.
During the internship, with the guidance of his supervisors, Tomé had the opportunity to observe and carry out various consular activities such as issuing identity cards, passports, visas, and document authentication. In addition, he became familiar with basic procedures that are part of the day-to-day work of the High Commission. As a Scholar from a Portuguese-speaking country, Tomé had an additional challenge during the internship – carrying out the proposed activities in English. However, this challenge was also an excellent opportunity to develop his communication skills through interaction with his supervisors, colleagues, and the general public seeking consular assistance.
Through his undergraduate courses, Tomé has been building up knowledge of International Relations that, in addition to this practical work experience, has broadened his vision about the possibilities of professional opportunities in Africa. In addition, the networking and the relationships he established during his internship had a remarkable impact on him:
“During the internship, I learned how to work in a professional environment collaboratively and inclusively. I finished my supervised internship knowing that the purpose of the internship was fulfilled, and I feel that I am prepared to enter the job market.”
In the future, Tomé hopes to contribute to the expansion and deepening of Mozambique’s diplomatic relations. We hope that he continues to develop as a professional in order to tackle the challenges and work towards strengthening the country’s diplomatic ties.
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