by Joyce Dzonyrah

I am Joyce Dzonyrah and studying Master of Arts in International Social Sciences at Friedensau Adventist University. I had a 3-month internship with ADRA Romania, particularly with their CASA ADRA project which shelters victims of domestic violence. I started from the 1st of April to the 29th of June 2023. This internship was fully funded by Erasmus.

This step came up when there was an opening position for an internship at ADRA Romania which my university publicized. I therefore showed interest in it and that is where the process started. This process was very smooth due to the immense support from all the stakeholders involved which included my university, the ADRA Romania institution, and Erasmus.

I contacted my supervisor from the host institution (ADRA Romania) which initiated communication even before moving to the host city. This communication with the supervisor helped in developing a rapport that extended further to the Human Resource Person of the institution. I got to learn more about the institution before getting there so I basically knew the nature of the operations of the project. They even helped in securing accommodation for me which took a huge burden I was worried about. I also started research online about Romania’s cities, security, and other things to note as a foreigner. One of my worries was about the Ukraine-Russia war as Romania was close to the situation so I kind of felt insecure. However, further talks with the Human Resources person and the supervisor removed this worry and fear.

ADRA Romania, the Adventist Agency for Development, Restoration, and Aid, has been actively engaged in the country since 1990, undertaking various development initiatives aimed at benefiting the entire population, irrespective of their religious affiliation, ethnic origin, or gender. ADRA Romania directs its efforts towards five primary areas, namely economic growth, primary healthcare, disaster relief, basic education, and the prevention of family violence (ADRA Romania, 2023).

The "Emergency Reception Centre for Victims of Family Violence - CASA ADRA House" of ADRA Romania where I was placed has been in operation since 2009. This project endeavors to facilitate the reintegration of domestic violence victims into society through the provision of various forms of assistance, including shelter, social counseling, psychological counseling, emergency medical aid, food, and referrals to legal professionals.

I actively participated in multiple responsibilities associated with the CASA ADRA house. These tasks encompassed conducting preliminary assessments of survivors, interviewing individuals, engaging in the initial evaluation process for new shelter recipients, observing and acquiring knowledge about the assessment methods utilized to ascertain the distinct needs and support prerequisites of each individual.

I was engaged in collaborative efforts with the social worker at the shelter, focusing on a range of activities designed to empower and provide assistance to the residents. This involvement includes active participation in group discussions, workshops, and support sessions specifically tailored for victims of domestic violence. Additionally, I contributed to the creation and execution of social programs and initiatives.

I also participated in discussions with the psychologist at the center in order to acquire a deeper understanding of the distinct dimensions of domestic violence and its psychological ramifications on individuals affected by it. Additionally, I sought to familiarise myself with the psychological assistance and counseling services provided to survivors.

I contributed to the strategic development and implementation of leisure pursuits for the inhabitants of the shelter, specifically focusing on the mothers and children residing within its premises. I strategically devised and executed various recreational activities, including games, art projects, and other interactive endeavors, with the aim of cultivating a favorable and pleasurable environment. I also engaged in activities such as accompanying victims on walks and visits to different locations, offering support and companionship, and taking part in recreational outings and educational excursions.

My primary objective encompassed the acquisition of knowledge pertaining to the legal framework surrounding domestic violence in Romania, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the diverse manifestations of domestic violence and its associated consequences. Additionally, I aimed to familiarise myself with the distinctive characteristics and requirements of individuals who have experienced domestic violence.

I provided assistance to the supervisor in the preparation of the "Child Flight" fundraising campaign for the shelter via assisting in the creation of promotional materials aimed at attracting potential sponsors and partners, engaging in proposal writing, and actively participating in discussions to identify impactful language and storytelling techniques for effectively conveying the narratives of ADRA House. This involved utilizing my social media platforms to generate public consciousness regarding this event. This event was aimed at raising funds for the CASA ADRA House.

I actively engaged in a protracted endeavor by making substantial contributions to the conclusive narrative report of a year-long initiative centered on refugees. Within this project, CASA ADRA focused on addressing instances of gender-based violence and provided support in terms of data collection, analysis, and report composition pertaining to the project's activities and outcomes.

This was a better way of applying the classroom work to the field and I realized how extensive project management is and it inculcates the habit of learning across various fields relevant to the project. I am really grateful to Erasmus for sponsoring this goal, helping me to fit well in the international professional and humanitarian field, and also aiding the process for the start of my thesis. This was a great opportunity!

Reference

About ADRA Romania, 2023, Retrieved from https://adra.ro/cine-suntem