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| Red Ribbon, symbol of solidarity of people living with HID/AIDS |
First step
I started my internship at a non-governmental organization named
Prévention Information Lutte contre le Sida (PILS) fighting against HIV/Aids. I
should admit it, it was a relief for me to know that I can finally start my
internship. It was a real pleasure for me to join this team so as to put into
practice what I have been learning in class but moreover, to learn from them as
much as I can. The first days were light and I started by introducing myself to
other staffs via mail. I must say that, I was happy to receive back messages
from them expressing their joy to welcome me in the organization and looking
forward to meet me.
Language: A vital element!
I had a general knowledge of the organization but I still needed to read
annual reports and other documents in order to know in depths what it is all
about. There was quite a lot of reading to do but the more I read the more I
understood the importance of knowing more about the NGO. I realized how essential it was to read because
working in this specific field required a specific language. What I mean by
specific language is that, I should be careful about the words employed when
talking, writing articles or any other way of communicating to others so as to
avoid a discriminatory and stigmatizing language. As ethics is central to good
public relations, I become conscious that communicating with an appropriate
language is extremely important within the organization. I considered language
as a code of ethics because it was a duty to myself to adopt this way of
communicating so as to avoid discrimination towards people.
What it brings to me
Working with this NGO made me feel useful not only because I can put
into practice my PR knowledge but also it is a way for me to support this
organization for the cause they are fighting for. If you want to more about the
NGO or about HIV/Aids itself, here is a link that can help you to know more
about it http://www.pils.mu/.
I am determined to make the best of this internship
and it appeals to be a beautiful adventure ahead…
