Child Family Health International

My time with CHFI was unforgettable and enriching. Over the course of 4 weeks, I had their opportunity to rotate through the surgery unit, pediatric wards, malukazi clinic and Hillcrest aids center. It was great clinical exposure. Seeing firsthand how healthcare providers navigate challenges with limited resources while delivering compassionate care gave me a whole new perspective on medicine. I had so much mentorship and support from the physicians, interns, students and other medical students who came from medical schools in the U.S. They took their time to explain pretty much everything to me. Beyond that, Durban is such a beautiful place. There was always something to do, beautiful beaches and nice sunny weather!

Wow! Before embarking on my CFHI trip to Cape Town, South Africa, I truly didn’t know what to expect. Looking back, I can confidently say that it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! From the clinical learning at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital to the warm hospitality of my homestay family, the breathtaking beauty of Cape Town, and the support of the CFHI team—every aspect of the trip exceeded my expectations. One of the highlights was staying with a local host family. The families who opened their homes to us were incredibly kind, welcoming, and accommodating. They made us feel at home from day one, offering not only a place to stay but also cultural insights, home-cooked meals, and a sense of community. It was an amazing way to truly immerse ourselves in the local way of life. The CFHI coordinators were phenomenal. Whether it was helping us navigate transportation, answering our questions, or ensuring we had everything we needed, they were always available and ready to assist. Their dedication made the experience seamless and stress-free. The hospital experience was equally eye-opening. Being part of the pediatric surgery team at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital gave me an invaluable perspective on how medicine is practiced in a resource-limited setting. I witnessed diseases and conditions I had only read about in textbooks and saw firsthand how doctors rely heavily on clinical skills and creativity to provide care when diagnostic resources are limited. The physicians and healthcare workers were not only skilled but also incredibly compassionate and dedicated, which was truly inspiring. And then there’s Cape Town itself—absolutely breathtaking! It felt like something out of a dream. From the stunning coastline and rugged mountains to the unreal sunsets and rich cultural history, every moment spent exploring the city was unforgettable. Whether hiking up Table Mountain, visiting the Cape of Good Hope, or simply taking in the ocean views, there was always something incredible to see and do. I wholeheartedly recommend CFHI to anyone considering an international medical rotation. More importantly, I cannot recommend the Cape Town program enough! It was a life-changing experience that deepened my appreciation for global health, expanded my clinical knowledge, and left me with memories that I will cherish forever.

The CFHI Ghana Virtual Internship was an incredibly impactful experience that exceeded my expectations. While the program was virtual, the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals in Ghana provided me with a unique perspective on global health. Through live sessions and discussions, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the healthcare system in Ghana, particularly around maternal health and public health outreach. One of the highlights was the collaborative learning environment—working alongside passionate peers from across the globe and engaging with the local team in Ghana gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of cultural competence in healthcare. The virtual cultural exchange sessions also helped me better understand Ghanaian traditions, food, and daily life, making the experience feel more personal and immersive. This internship has not only strengthened my understanding of public health in a global context but has also inspired me to continue working toward solutions for healthcare challenges in underserved communities. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to broaden their global health perspective, regardless of their background.