Education: Second Year at UC Berkeley, Peace and Conflict Studies Major.

Plans For The Future: Humanitarian Work, Political Advisor.

During my first summer back from University in America, with a three month-long break stretched out before of me, I wanted to do something constructive with my time. Although I immediately contacted several NGO's and charitable organizations upon my return to Sri Lanka, I was also aware that Sri Lanka was not the easiest place to secure summer internships. As a result, I was thrilled by the prompt and positive response I received from Habitat for Humanity Sri Lanka (HFHSL) to the email of inquiry that I sent them.

Taken on as an intern, I had the opportunity to work on several different tasks: HFHSL’s Annual Report, their newsletter, press releases, project write-ups, and international award applications. Having never worked at an NGO before, I had the chance to observe the different avenues through which HFHSL work and get things done. My internship was not just behind the desk either. I had the opportunity to visit one of HFHSL’s completed housing projects in the slums of Kollonawa, and observed the incredible difference that a stable house can make to someone’s life. I also had the privelege of attending a meeting which saw a collective response to humanitarian issues by many NGO representatives. My internship at HFHSL completely differed from any previous work experience I have had. I actually gained an incredible sense of meaning, accomplishment  and satisfaction from the projects I completed and assisted in.

Overall, I had a really good experience working with Habitat for Humanity Sri Lanka. I’m incredibly sad to see my time end here, but would really encourage anyone who is interested to apply. While providing unique work experience and exposure, I was able to end each day feeling as though I had made a contribution, no matter how small, towards the HFHSL’s vision of change.