SUMMER SCHOLARS BLOG : Mihuvho Mafuna

Written By UNA-NYC Summer Scholars

From the Big Apple to the City of Gold:
My UNFPA Internship Journey

On the evening of June 28th, as the sun set over New York City, I embarked on an adventure that would change my life. A 16-hour flight awaited me, promising not only a journey across continents but also a world of global impact and personal growth.

Stepping off the plane at OR Tambo International Airport early on June 30th, I was greeted by the crisp winter air, filled with the promise of excitement and new possibilities. Despite my exhaustion, a wave of exhilaration carried me to my temporary home, where I eagerly anticipated the transformative experiences ahead.

July 3rd marked the beginning of my internship at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in the East and Southern African Region. Although my supervisor was absent, Mrs. Georgina Edwards, a seasoned professional, welcomed me warmly, setting the stage for an extraordinary experience. As a Knowledge, Evidence, and Innovation Intern, I found myself at the crossroads of policy development, sexual reproductive health, and youth empowerment, all within the urgent context of climate change.

UNFPA ESA Regional office

My internship: a whirlwind of learning and discovery

The first two weeks of my internship were a whirlwind of learning and discovery. I quickly immersed myself in the complex workings of the United Nations, attending security briefings and active shooter response training, understanding the multifaceted nature of international development. The highlight was undoubtedly the Block Week, a culmination of months of hard work. During this week, the "Futures Refresh" sessions ignited my passion for innovative approaches to global challenges.

Currently, our focus at the UNFPA is on launching the HackLab project in Kenya. This groundbreaking initiative showcases the organization's commitment to fostering local solutions to local problems, especially those affecting the youth. It's truly inspiring to witness how innovation can address real-world challenges and create lasting change.

This internship has been a crucible for personal and professional growth. I've honed my research skills and learned new methodologies like the Futures Wheel and scenario building, expanding my analytical toolkit. Beyond technical skills, I've gained a profound understanding of the real-life issues faced by young girls and marginalized communities, igniting a passion for advocacy and their well-being.

Working on policies that directly impact lives has been incredibly fulfilling. Discussing development in a classroom is one thing, but actively crafting solutions on the front lines is another. Networking with seasoned professionals has provided invaluable mentorship and inspiration, solidifying my commitment to improving lives and fostering sustainable development.

Reflecting on my journey so far, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and excitement. This internship is not just a line on my resume; it's a pivotal step towards a career dedicated to improving lives and fostering sustainable development. With each passing day, my conviction grows stronger that this is where I'm meant to be, contributing to a global effort for a more equitable and just world. From New York to Johannesburg, this journey has already taken me further than I could have imagined - in both miles traveled and personal growth.

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The above are select excerpts from Mihuvho's's blog.You can read all his blogs in their entirety here

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Our Summer Scholars Blog, a collection of reports from post-grad scholars that UNA-NYC has sponsored globally, showcases our fellows' experiences with UN agencies and non-governmental organizations in the country where they are working. Learn more about our Summer Scholars fellowship program and fellows here.