“Working with CMCA was an eye-opener to the world of non-profits”

Posted By CMCA on 26 Aug 2022

Hi everyone, I’m Aaron. I’m a recent history graduate from the University of Birmingham and I’ve been working with CMCA as part of a Common Purpose internship in Bangalore.

As someone with little prior experience in non-profit organisations, I wasn’t sure what to expect or the duties I’d be assigned, but from the first day, we were immersed: making resources and activity cards; experiencing the relationship between CMCA’s departments; and tasting lots of South Indian food! The first day alone was an eye-opener to the world of non-profit organisations and the effort that goes in behind the scenes away from schools. Everyone in the office was welcoming and friendly and the same energy was put into our brainstorming discussions about social media posts, alumni networks, and CMCA’s work. In an increasingly digital world, it was rewarding and valuable working with staff to create a real impact for CMCA’s online presence – I got a clear insight into the marketing and management side of non-profit organisations.

I really enjoyed the school visits and working with the educators to see CMCA in practice. From engaging discussions with young people about poverty, gender inequality, and eco-friendliness, to creating activity cards about cultural diversity and building self-awareness, I saw the positive impact that CMCA has and how it’s pushing towards creating a conscious generation of young people. In many places today, such discussions are conversational and rarely find their way into classrooms; it was refreshing to see such critical dialogues being discussed so openly and passionately. One of the biggest things I learnt in the schools with CMCA was the importance of young people realising their ability to create change and the positive outcomes created when these wider conversations are opened to them in an accessible way.

A big thank you to all the CMCA staff for their support, enthusiasm, and inspiration. I’ve learnt so much from my experience with CMCA and working with them has certainly piqued my long-term interest in the non-profit sector.