Mandela, South Africa’s first black president, is famous for his leading role in ending the cruel apartheid system of racial segregation in the ‘90s. Elected to office after receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, he introduced housing, education, and economic development initiatives to improve the lives of the black population. His mission continues today through a variety of Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) initiatives—roll up your sleeves and join in!
How will you contribute? It depends on local community needs. Alongside community leaders, you might serve in a project that supports the unhoused, hospitals or schools, or vulnerable children. Learn basic isiXhosa language to connect with the community. Investigate and reflect on how the country addresses inequality and economic disparity in underserved communities and how leadership skills intersect with identity, power, privilege, and opportunity.
Soak in the rich culture of Cape Town and meet local teens, too. Experience once-in-a-lifetime excursions, like a safari, nature hikes, and a boat trip to Robben Island where Mandela spent much of his 27-year prison term for leading the apartheid resistance.
Looking for a longer term program? Check out our trimester, semester, or academic year programs for high schoolers.
Graduating high school soon? Visit the CIEE First Year Abroad and CIEE Gap Year Abroad pages to learn more about our post-graduation options.
We award millions in scholarship funds every year. Check out our Scholarship page for more information, including how to apply.