Placement: Cape Town
Contract Type: Paid Internship
Fixed-Term: 1-Year (subject to probation)
Start Date: 01 March 2026, or as soon as possible
Best Before: 16 January 2026
About the Organisation
The Development Action Group (DAG) is a leading non-profit, non-governmental organisation dedicated to advancing community-centred development in South Africa. DAG works to address economic, social, and spatial inequalities by supporting communities to engage meaningfully in housing, land, and urban development processes. Through research, advocacy, training, and civic engagement, DAG seeks to strengthen democratic participation and promote inclusive, just, and sustainable urban environments.
Internship Overview
DAG is seeking a motivated and committed Intern to support the Civic Action Hub Programme, based in Cape Town. This paid internship offers an opportunity for an early-career professional to gain practical experience in housing, land, and urban development, while contributing to community organising, policy engagement, and capacity-building initiatives.
The Intern will work under the guidance of the Programme Manager and broader programme team, supporting research, advocacy, training, project administration, and community engagement activities. The role is ideal for candidates interested in development practice, civic education, and social justice.
Role Purpose
The Intern will support the effective delivery of the Civic Action Hub Programme by:
- Assisting with research, advocacy, and community organising activities
- Supporting training, civic education, and capacity development initiatives
- Providing administrative, logistical, and coordination support across programme activities
- Contributing to project planning, documentation, and reporting processes
- The role provides structured learning opportunities while contributing meaningfully to DAG’s mission and programme objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Project Design and Implementation
The Intern will:
- Assist with the design and implementation of housing and land-related projects
- Support programme activities aligned with community needs and civic priorities
- Contribute to project planning processes through coordination and administrative support
Policy Review and Advocacy
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the review of policy documents related to housing, land, and urban development
- Assisting with the preparation of commentary and advocacy inputs
- Contributing to research and analysis that informs policy engagement
Research and Content Development
The Intern will:
- Conduct background research to support training programmes and public events
- Assist in developing content for workshops, webinars, and civic education initiatives
- Support evidence-based advocacy and community engagement efforts
Training and Capacity Building
The role includes:
- Assisting with the conceptualisation, design, and delivery of training courses and workshops
- Supporting webinars and public learning events for diverse audiences
- Helping to develop training methodologies and facilitation materials
- Contributing to user-friendly educational content on housing and land issues
Community Engagement and Technical Support
The Intern will:
- Provide basic technical support to civic and community-based organisations
- Assist with the preparation of accessible materials for community engagement
- Support civic education initiatives focused on land, housing, and urban rights
Project Administration and Coordination
Administrative and coordination responsibilities include:
- Assisting with annual planning and budgeting processes
- Providing administrative support for project implementation
- Maintaining accurate project documentation and records
- Preparing reports for internal and external stakeholders
Event Coordination and Logistics
The Intern will support the organisation of programme events by:
- Coordinating logistics for meetings, workshops, and training sessions
- Assisting with scheduling, venue arrangements, and participant communication
- Preparing materials and supporting event delivery
Additional Programme Support
The Intern will:
- Perform additional tasks as requested by the Programme Manager and management team
- Provide flexible support to meet evolving programme and organisational needs
Required Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate will have:
A relevant university degree or diploma in fields such as:
- Urban Planning
- Social Development
- Human Settlements Development
- Social Anthropology
- Related Built Environment or Social Science disciplines
- At least two years’ experience in training and research related to housing, land, social development, or urban development
Knowledge and Skills
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Knowledge of research and training methodologies
- Familiarity with housing, land, and urban development policy frameworks
Proficiency in:
- MS Word and PowerPoint (intermediate level)
- MS Excel (beginner level)
Core Competencies
Essential competencies include:
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Ability to plan independently and meet deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Diplomacy, discretion, and confidence in engaging with partners and stakeholders
- Creative thinking and ability to use initiative
- Ability to build trust and maintain positive working relationships
Application Process
Interested candidates should:
- Carefully review the role requirements and responsibilities before applying
- Submit the following documents by 16:00 on Friday, 16 January 2026:
- A motivational letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the role
- A CV
- Three contactable references
Applications should be emailed to: Alicia@dag.org.za
Additional information:
- DAG is an equal opportunity organisation committed to diversity and employment equity
- The position is based in Cape Town; relocation costs will not be covered
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two to three weeks of the closing date
- DAG thanks all applicants for their interest in contributing to community-centred development and civic action.
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
