Written by Kerry Johnson
When most people think about internships, they likely imagine college students or recent graduates working for free in order to gain experience in their desired field. However, there are many types of internships available for people of all ages and backgrounds, including those with disabilities. Here we will explore the benefits of internships for people with disabilities and how they can be a valuable tool in achieving career success.
What are internship options are available for people with disabilities
There are a number of internship options available for people with disabilities in South Africa. One option is to intern with a company or organisation that is committed to diversity and inclusion. This type of organisation will provide you with the opportunity to learn about different types of disabilities and how to accommodate them in the workplace.
Another option is to intern with a disability-specific organisation. These organisations are dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, and they can offer you the chance to gain valuable experience working with clients or customers who have disabilities.
Finally, you can also intern with a government organisation or a non-profit organisation that works on disability rights issues. These organisations can provide you with an insight into the policymaking process and the work that goes into promoting the rights of people with disabilities. Whichever option you choose, an internship can be a great way to gain skills and experience while also making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
What are the benefits of internships
Whether you have a disability or not, internships are a great way to gain experience in a certain field or company. They can also lead to full-time job offers. Internships are typically completed during the summer, but can also be done during the school year. Some internships are paid and some are not. Unpaid internships are often done for academic credit. Internships can be found in a variety of places, such as online, through your school’s career centre, or by networking with people you know.
When searching for an internship, it is important to make sure it is a good fit for you. You should also be aware of your rights as an intern. For example, you should not be asked to do work that is not part of the internship description or that would normally be done by a paid employee. If you are treated unfairly or feel like you are in danger, you should speak up and report the problem to your supervisor or HR department.
Overall, internships can be a great way to gain experience and potentially land a full-time job. But it is important to do your research and make sure you are being treated fairly before committing to an internship.
How companies can benefit from offering internships for people with disabilities
Internships are a great way for companies to get new employees with fresh ideas and perspectives. But did you know that internships can also be beneficial for employees with disabilities? By offering internships for people with disabilities, companies can not only help these individuals gain invaluable work experience, but they can also show their commitment to diversity and inclusion.
In addition, by providing accommodations and support during the internship, companies can give these interns the opportunity to fully participate in the workplace. As a result, offering internships for people with disabilities can be a win-win for both the company and the intern. So, if your company is looking to diversify its workforce, consider offering an internship for someone with a disability. It just might be the best decision you ever make.
How to find an internship for people with disabilities
For people with disabilities, finding an internship can be a bit of a challenge. While many companies are now offering internships specifically for people with disabilities, there are still some companies that are not yet on board. So, how do you go about finding an internship if you have a disability? Here are a few tips:
First, start by searching the internet. There are several websites that list internships specifically for people with disabilities. This is a great way to get an overview of what’s available and to find out which companies are currently offering internships.
Second, reach out to your network of friends and family. Someone you know may have already found an internship that would be a good fit for you. They may also know someone who works at a company that offers internships for people with disabilities.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask directly. If you see a company that you’re interested in, contact them and inquire about internship opportunities. It never hurts to ask! With a little perseverance, you’re sure to find the perfect internship for you.
About author:
Kerry Johnson is a careers development activist who looks at ways of promoting training and careers for people in South Africa.
