This summer, I was fortunate enough to immerse myself in an organization dedicated to fighting social injustices worldwide. My decision to choose this internship was driven by my interests and, on a more academic note, my field of study as a first-year student majoring in Political Science at 91社区. I have always been drawn to topics related to social issues such as social disparity and discrimination, upward mobility, and humanitarianism. I believe my interest in these subjects is closely linked to my personal experiences. Having been born and raised in Morocco鈥攁 country with its share of social inequalities and classist views鈥擨 have been exposed to these harsh realities throughout my life. Additionally, I enjoy exploring these themes through various creative media, such as cinema. Films, whether blunt depictions of reality or pure works of fiction and fantasy, play a significant role in influencing, educating, and sensitizing people to various causes. Paradoxically, I believe that the seventh art helps us stay connected to reality by allowing us to experience new perspectives for a limited time.
Thus formed my deep interest in applying for an internship at 脡duconnexion. After researching the core principles of this organization, I was impressed by its extensive national and international engagement. 脡duconnexion is a non-governmental organization based in Montreal that encourages citizen engagement to combat social injustices and advocates for Global Citizenship Education.
As an intern at 脡duconnexion, I was assigned to the youth mentorship program in arts and citizen engagement. This project focuses on working with young people from the St. Michel neighborhood, helping them express their thoughts and feelings on topics relevant to their experiences as members of mostly marginalized communities. Through various workshops hosted at the Centre Lasallien Youth Center in St. Michel, the youth engage in several forms of artistic expression, which serve as cathartic tools guiding them on their journey of self-discovery, self-awareness, and expression. For example, they have access to painting workshops, writing and spoken word workshops, sewing and fashion design workshops, and more. I was personally involved in the writing workshop and also organized my own workshop鈥攁 movie club where I presented films that led to discussions and debates with the youth. Additionally, I assisted with maintaining the social media account for the program and contributed to the development of the summer activities calendar.
The main highlights of my internship included the wonderful, positive, and stimulating work environment. The staff was warm, understanding, and helpful at all times. Hosting my own workshop was a significant experience for me; stepping into the role of a facilitator and forming a genuine connection with the youth proved to be an incredibly valuable growth opportunity.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the smooth running of my internship would not have been possible without the award I received. The funding helped cover personal expenses as well as costs related to my responsibilities during the internship, such as transportation and equipment for preparing the screenings at the youth center. Thank you!
