My internship experience at WAAF and IHCC in Ghana has been a transformative journey filled with rich and diverse encounters. I was given the opportunity to immerse myself in a care and nursing environment that starkly contrasted with what I was familiar with back home in Sweden.
One of the most significant aspects of my internship was the opportunity to learn more about unfamiliar diseases such as malaria, but especially HIV/AIDS and the numerous challenges associated with it. I witnessed several challenges such as the enduring stigma surrounding the disease and the shortages of essential supplies, and how this affected both individual clients and WAAF/IHCC ability to carry out their work. Meeting people living in struggling environments and poor living conditions in Accra was another humbling experience and a valuable lesson in empathy and humanitarianism. I became aware of the vital work that goes on behind the scenes at the clinic and important aspects that need to be considered when implementing projects, which made me really understand the importance of effective coordination and collaboration. I also conducted a study on HIV/AIDS stigma as a part of my internship, which allowed me to engage in research, understand the root causes of stigma, and explore potential solutions. The research gave me the opportunity to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting and engage with people who have firsthand experiences with facing HIV/AIDS-related challenges. Another aspect of this internship was the experience of traveling alone to a completely new country that was markedly different from my homeland, with no familiar faces in sight. This challenge pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to take on new responsibilities and rely on my own problem-solving skills. Overcoming homesickness and adapting to a new environment taught me resilience and independence, which was a transformative experience in itself. However, the people I met in Ghana were not only welcoming but also incredibly friendly and their warmth and generosity made me feel at home despite being thousands of miles away from my friends and family. It also made me appreciate the diversity of our global community. I admired the kindness and support of everyone at WAAF and IHCC and their collective dedication to making a difference is inspiring and leaves a lasting impression on me.
In conclusion, my internship in Ghana has been a life-altering adventure that has enriched my professional and personal life in ways I could never have imagined. The unique experiences, challenges, and newfound perspectives I gained during this journey will stay with me throughout my entire life.
Karolina Linton Walgren,
Global Public Health Concentration.
Postgraduate degree at Uppsala University
Sweden