As the sun sets on their internship journey, the Development Communication interns from Batangas State University reflect on their transformative experience at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF). Throughout their internship, these bright and passionate students have honed their communication and advocacy skills and contributed significantly to the foundation’s mission of providing support to marginalized groups, especially to persons deprived of liberty.
From day one, the interns showed and welcomed their dynamic team into HLAF’s environment where they were encouraged to learn, innovate, and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. As I supervised their engagement in various projects, I saw their pivotal role in enhancing HLAF’s outreach and communication strategies, making a tangible difference in the lives of those they served.
It was memorable for me, and I know for them that one of the highlights of their internship was working on an advocacy campaign focused on bridging the gap between incarcerated mothers and their children through artful and therapeutic coloring and bonding.
Using social media platforms, they crafted engaging posts, eye-catching graphics, and informative videos that effectively conveyed crucial information about HLAF’s advocacies and work.
Their hard work and dedication culminated in different successful campaigns that increased the HLAF’s visibility and encouraged individuals to work toward the promotion of persons deprived of liberty rights. The interns witnessed firsthand how their efforts could empower those in need, instilling a sense of pride and fulfillment in their contributions.
In addition to their advocacy work, the interns were actively involved in organizing workshops and community engagements. The interactions with community members left a lasting impact, as the interns saw the direct effects of their work in raising awareness and nurturing hope.
As they near the completion of their internship, the interns expressed gratitude for the mentorship they received from HLAF. They had the opportunity to learn from experienced development professionals who shared their knowledge and insights, shaping them into more confident and skilled communicators. I know that the guidance provided was instrumental in helping them develop a deeper understanding of humanitarian legal work and the importance of advocacy.
Looking ahead, when we had our celebratory activity, the interns told me that they were excited to take the lessons learned during their time at HLAF into their future careers, although they still had one (1) academic semester left. Armed with a passion for social justice and a commitment to making a difference, they are determined to use their skills to advocate for marginalized voices and continue the work of fostering positive change in society.
As the internship concludes, it’s clear that the impact of the Development Communication interns at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation goes beyond a mere learning experience. They have become ambassadors of hope and change, bridging the gap between those in need and the legal resources available to them. Their journey is a testament to the power of youth, collaboration, and a shared vision for a more just and equitable world.
In the end, the legacy of the interns lives on through their contributions, and the HLAF community can now look forward to new initiatives and advocacy efforts, all fueled by the passion and commitment of these determined students. Malaya na at patuloy na tutulong para magpalaya pa.
