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My internship at Justice Revival

My internship at Justice Revival

July 21, 2021 at 12:15pm

Name: Prachi Lalwani

Hometown: Venezuela

What is your major? International relations with a minor in political science and certificate in Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Human Rights and Political Transitions, European and Eurasian Studies. Global Learning Medallion, Peace Corps Prep, FIU in DC and Honors College student. 

Where are you interning? Justice Revival (JR), located in Washington, D.C.

What is your title? Human Rights and Communication Intern

How did you get your internship? Justice Revival is the first and only organization in the United States that intersects human rights and Christian values. I applied when I saw this; and, after an interview, I got accepted.

What are you doing there? I am conducting research and analysis on threats and challenges to human rights in the United States, engaging Justice Revival constituents in advocacy campaigns. I create communications to advance advocacy efforts and communicate with donors. Overall, I am learning about communications strategy and tactics to mobilize grassroots support for human rights within the faith sector.

What projects did you work on? I have been working on a few projects such as creating content, an annual report, newsletters and managing a CRM platform. We have also worked with the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) campaign and developed the JR website. Overall, as a current intern, I am making sure everything we do reflects what we stand for: love, faith, peace, justice and truth. I am also currently working on creating a media list to start publishing in different outlets and creating new relationships in the field of human rights.

How does your internship connect back to your coursework? My major is international relations with a focus on human rights. Working for an organization with a mission to create a just and equitable society makes my work more meaningful. I am putting into practice what I've learned in every one of my classes. I am getting the experience while standing for my values and truth. One of the most challenging but essential aspects of having Justice Revival as my first internship is the process of transforming my academic knowledge and confidence into concrete deliverables.

What is the coolest thing about your internship? The coolest part of my internship is that all the interns had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., for a few days for a retreat to experience work in the capital. I am so joyful for this trip because I gained insight into decision-making and how I can be part of the change. The founder and executive director of Justice Revival guided us through a full day on how to renew our strength in the Lord and provided us with career advice and tools. I think the coolest part was to reflect on my life and realize that I am living my dream and maximizing my potential.

What have you enjoyed most about your experience? What I enjoyed the most is working with my manager. I have learned so much about human rights issues in the United States and how to communicate effectively, ask for help, and use social media to spread the message. The most amazing part for me is that I have learned how to stand for my truth in trending topics and make sure I am standing in solidarity with the oppressed and defending human rights for all. I have enjoyed having the opportunity to understand what it feels like to be in the workforce and how to maximize your potential while loving what you do.

What have you learned about yourself? First, I've learned that it is about progress and not perfection; I've learned that things take time, and my time is valuable. Second, I've learned that I can do more and beyond what I think I can do because I have the passion, discipline and love for what I do. Third, I've also learned that it is OK to ask for help and make mistakes because it is the best way to learn. Finally, I've learned that I'm good at working on teams and supporting my manager. This internship was a transformative experience, personally and professionally. I have always wanted to do something bigger than myself and knowing that what I do is impacting lives is the best feeling.

What advice do you have for those beginning the internship process? My advice is to first believe in yourself and your abilities. Secondly, do the right research and ask for advice. Be yourself and find work that aligns with your goals and dreams.

How has the position increased your professional confidence? My position as an intern has increased my confidence in many ways such as through communication and having the right people beside me. When I feel that I might be failing, my coordinator always inspires me to keep learning and growing. Knowing that the capabilities and skills acquired in this internship will take my career to the next level has helped increase how I see myself and my confidence.

How has the internship expanded your professional network? My internship frequently hosts webinars and events that have increased my network. As a communication intern, I have had the opportunity to keep track of data, create posts and reports of past events that allow me to get to know other organizations and guest speakers who stand for human rights and inspire me.