Staff Interview with Nakeshia Tobias

Get to know Roots Interns' staff!

Nakeshia Tobias
Nakeshia TobiasInterviewed in 2022

Nakeshia studied at Cape Town's Theatre School and worked at the Rainbow Academy as a performer, hostess, and production administrator. Later, Nakeshia transitioned into retail, the nonprofit sector, and tourism. She is passionate about making a difference in the world and having a positive impact.

What inspired you to work for Roots Interns?

Coming from an underprivileged community, but considering myself more privileged than most, I always felt the need to help wherever I can. And as soon as I discovered this industry, I realized I can affect change on a much bigger scale than what I was used to. This inspired me to be part of such an amazing team.

Describe a typical day at work.

A typical day at work varies from answering enquiries via email, tending to applications, doing check-ins with the interns as well as the organizations we work with, sorting out the logistics for people coming to Africa, and administration.

View of Cape Town

My city

Why do you do what you do?

I love helping wherever I can, and I believe my life's journey is being part of other people's journey, even if just for a short time, and bringing some joy and hope to others.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is speaking to different kinds of people from all over the world that share my passion, and hearing about the impact they have within the organizations they are working with, as well as the impact these organizations have within their communities.

What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?

I would tell myself not to be afraid to take the leap because you might just discover who you really are and what you're truly capable of once you're outside of your comfort zone.

What makes Roots Interns special?

Being part of a team that truly cares about, and are passionate about people as well as the different organizations we work with, is really special. Our team is quick to help one another without any hesitation, and inspire each other to be the best that we can be.

Always looking out for one another and caring about everything that is done regardless of how small. We all share a similar passion for people, which makes us able to relate to each other and help where we can.

Group of people around a table

One of the organization we work with

Why should someone choose Roots Interns over competitors?

We are really mindful of what the interns require and also take their interests into account when trying to find the right organization to match them with. We help with all the preparations in order to make the pre-travel arrangements easier for the interns, and we also make sure to offer support while the interns are on the ground.

What do you hope participants take away from your programs?

The interns are able to receive first hand experience within the nonprofit sector, and are able to implement what they have learnt during their studies, while also giving back to those who need all the help they can get. It is fulfilling on a professional and personal sphere.

If you could participate on one of your organization's programs, where would you go and what would you do?

I would do any of the Animal Welfare internships as I absolutely love animals and I'm passionate about helping the voiceless. I would also want to be part of the Gender Equality internship.

Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?

It is important to travel and experience new cultures as it helps you learn to adapt easily in any situation, and exposes you to what the world is really like outside of our TV's/phone screens

A man holding a dog as part of Roots program outreach

Another organization we work with

What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?

I would say that they should definitely do so. What we see about the world abroad on our televisions or on the internet is not always as it seems, and experiencing different countries first hand will change the way you think about the world and the people in it. And if you are traveling with a cause, you'll be even more fulfilled.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

Meaningful travel allows people to access cultures never experienced before, learn new things about the world, and have a greater respect for Mother Nature and its prowess.

How is your company handling Covid protocols? What should participants know about your Covid readiness? How are you assisting participants with navigating the new travel landscape?

We assist with giving interns the most relevant information on what is happening with regard to Covid within the different countries that our organizational partners operate in. If interns are hesitant to travel, we can also offer remote internships.

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