Michelle’s Final Reflection
Long time no see! For those who have not been following me on my journey, See Optometry provided me with sponsorship this year to do a virtual internship through Think Pacific, a Fijian not-for-profit organisation designed to improve outcomes for rural communities. Part of the sponsorship is a direct charitable contribution to improving the standard of living for these communities. I was lucky enough to do my internship with Marama Alliance UK which empowers Fijian women to be agents of change through collaboration and capacity building.
I finished my internship in March; I learned so much from my first ever internship and enjoyed the work I got to do. The strategic plan that I created for the Marama Alliance UK (MAUK) was challenging but rewarding.
MAUK stated that they wanted new people of the same passion and commitment to take them into the future. By analysing the current structure of the committee and comparing it to other committees from similar organisations, I recommended restructuring the committee. The current committee could do this by reflecting on each member’s skills and experience and deciding who would be better suited to each position, (eg: treasurer or media and publications director). Positions would rotate on an annual basis which would ensure fresh ideas continue to drive the organisation.
Through these sorts of tasks, I discovered new skills in creativity, which I never knew I had. It has made me consider working in strategic analyst roles where I might develop ideas and solutions for projects. I am now more confident in the work that I do and using more initiative. Additionally, I’m developing a better mindset to handle problems and take the time to find the best possible solution.
I am now very eager to give back to global communities, as I did through my internship project. Hopefully, Australia might consider opening a travel bubble with Fiji, so I can do one of Think Pacific’s volunteer projects in person. It would build on what I learnt and the skills I’ve developed as a global citizen through this internship experience.
Overall, Think Pacific gave me an incredible experience for my first internship. I enjoyed the work I did and grew personally and professionally. Danny, my mentor, was an endless source of support and encouragement, and he helped to make the most out of the experience.
Finally, thank you again to Martin and the team at See Optometry for sponsoring part of my internship. I would have never been able to have such a unique first internship if it wasn’t for them.
