Genesis

"Another laudable initiative is the Genesis Programme currently being piloted by the Africa Chapter of the International Youth Development Organisation, AIESEC (see www.aiesec.org). Through the Genesis Programme, recent university graduates of African origin are placed in international voluntary assignments in other African countries. Their work includes supporting non-profit organisations working on different social issues including HIV/AIDS, gender issues, Information Technology or various other community projects. These international volunteers learn and share their experiences and ideas with others around the world on AIESEC’s online Learning Communities and are supported through a process of mentorship to make their learning explicit. These graduates get the opportunity to hone leadership skills by working at a low-risk leadership role and gain practical expertise on issues that are likely to be similar to issues in their home country. The added value of volunteering abroad helps focus the graduates on the project; provides the space to reflect on learning and an expanded awareness of social issues facing the continent. It also helps in building self-esteem – for both themselves and the communities they serve. With increasing corporate funding to cover the travel and sustenance costs of volunteers, more and more graduates are benefiting from the Genesis Programme. Currently, AIESEC in Africa is seeking to partner with airlines within Africa to offer free or rebated flight tickets during the off peak period to enable the volunteers travel for their assignments." (Article 13)