GenevaWISE seeks to increase the presence of young graduates and professionals from developing countries in Geneva-based internship programmes. Geneva World Interns and Scholars Exchange (GenevaWISE) is committed to decreasing this discrepancy.
Geneva is home to a large number of international and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who offer internship opportunities to young graduates and scholars throughout the year. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these internships is non-remunerated and therefore are not option for most young professionals or university graduates from developing countries. While the work of most international organisations is concerned with issues facing the developing world, the representation of interns from lower income countries in such organisations is disproportionately low.
Mission: To provide independently administered financial aid to young graduates and professionals from developing countries so that they may benefit from internship programmes in Geneva. The purpose of this is to gain the necessary tools and expertise to allow them to act more effectively in their home countries.
Objectives:
• To provide direct financial aid to interns coming from developing countries
• To create a network of young and skilled professionals thus facilitating communication between national and international organisations
• To give young scholars and professionals the tools to apply their knowledge constructively in their home countries
• To contribute towards a comprehensive understanding of international efforts in sustainable development
• To facilitate capacity building within a specific area of expertise in order to enhance the effectiveness of interns in their home countries
Specific needs expressed to Giving Women Members:
In 2010, GenevaWISE aimed to provide bursaries for 20 interns. Members of Giving Women were asked to help GenevaWISE in different ways. Specifically in:
- Supporting partnership formations through their network;
- Funding two female interns per year for a five year period;
- Informing GenevaWise of housing opportunities for interns;
- Collaborating in relation to fundraising, sponsorship, advice on the business plan.
What has the Giving Women Project Circle achieved for the project?
GenevaWise had a first intern, from Chile, who was at the WHO as a result of the support of GenevaWISE. Another one was welcome in mid February 2010 and a third one in June.
Furthermore Giving Women Project Circle on GenevaWISE has:
- Helped the fundraising evening by sending invitation to members of GW. At the end of the evening the pledges of donations amounted to 12'000CHF, which will be able to support 2 new interns;
- Offered housing to 3 interns;
- Supported the further development of partnerships with International Organisations (including Union of International Cancer Control, OHCHA, UNHCR at early stage of discussion); and
- Provided contacts with potential funders.
Finally GenevaWISE has experienced a change in the board and welcome new members who are bringing a new dynamic and new energy to the team.