South Africa
Overview
South Africa is a country shaped by its cultural, ethnic, and biodiversity, representing more than 50 million people, 11 official languages, and tens of thousands of flora and fauna species. South Africa's history is impressive and dotted with countless important milestones, dating back to the Cradle of Humankind 3.5 million years ago to its first democratic elections in 1994.
English is commonly spoken in public and commercial life, but is only the fifth most common language spoken at home, preceded first by Zulu, Afrikaans, Sepedi, and Setswana. Despite recent economic growth, South Africa still has a high rate of poverty, low GDP per capita, and high income inequality.
Cape Town
With a long and storied history, stunning geography and ever-developing urban offerings, it’s clear why Cape Town is the most popular tourist destination in Africa. The city is South Africa’s second most populous city and one of the world’s most multicultural. Cape Town sits in southwest South Africa along Table Bay, and is known for both its natural beauty and geography as well as a remarkable range of architecture from colonial to modern. In 2008, Travel Telegraph Awards named Cape Town the most beautiful city in the world.
Social and Development Issues
Beyond the overwhelming beauty of the nation, South Africa is still widely affected by the aftereffects of 70 years of apartheid. Despite recent economic growth and significant reinvestment in education, South Africa still faces obvious disparities between the haves and have-nots. The country is ranked as one of the top 10 countries in the world for income inequality, as measured by the Gini index.
Another pressing issue is the HIV/AIDS epidemic, affecting approximately 5.7 million people, or 12% of the population. Its prevalence has led to many families losing key primary wage earners and an estimated 1.2 million “AIDS orphans.”
Projects
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Volunteer Abroad
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Former President Mbeki was a strong proponent of AIDS/HIV denialism, underfunding inexpensive treatments and promoting alternative “treatments,” such as a diet of...
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Encourage locals to recycle while improving their livelihoodsIn Du Noon, a poverty stricken community, people face immediate concerns in providing for their families and have no time or resources to clean up their neighborhood. Residents...
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Help stop the cycle of illiteracy and unemploymentSouth Africa is a complex country with Africa’s largest economy, a dedicated democratic government, 25% unemployment, and one of the highest rates of income inequality. One...
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ProWorld works with our local partners to help families suffering from extreme poverty or HIV/ AIDS. ProWorld focuses on community empowerment and skills training, helping...
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Children in many poor areas of Cape Town are exposed to gangs, substance abuse, and violence. Raising healthy, socially responsible children is challenging for any parent or...
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Promote Cooperation and Empowerment through Martial ArtsLife in Cape Town townships is especially hard for children who are exposed to gang violence and substance abuse every day. ProWorld South Africa and our local partner use...
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South Africa is a complex country with Africa’s largest economy, a dedicated democratic government, 25% unemployment, and one of the highest rates of income inequality. One...
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Home of the notorious vuvuzela, South Africans enjoy soccer as both players and fans. Women athletes, however, get just a fraction of the notoriety and support as their male...
Intern Abroad
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Home of the notorious vuvuzela, South Africans enjoy soccer as both players and fans. Women athletes, however, get just a fraction of the notoriety and support as their...
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South Africa is a complex country with Africa’s largest economy, a dedicated democratic government, 25% unemployment, and one of the highest rates of income inequality....
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Dancing has always been an art of necessity. From tribal crump to urban hip-hop to elite ballet, people use dance to entertain, to tell stories, and to cope with their lives...
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South Africa is a complex country with Africa’s largest economy, a dedicated democratic government, 25% unemployment, and one of the highest rates of income inequality....
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South Africa is a complex country with Africa’s largest economy, a dedicated democratic government, 25% unemployment, and one of the highest rates of income inequality....
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South Africa is a complex country with Africa’s largest economy, a dedicated democratic government, 25% unemployment, and one of the highest rates of income inequality....
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The imaginative process of creating art helps kids think beyond the parameters of their reality. Life may be hard, food may be scarce, and home may be violent, but children who...
Available Programs
Country Snapshot
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Bianca A South Africa - Cape TownAfter this experience, I am even more eager to continue my studies in Public Health, because I know this is what I want to do. One person may not make a difference, but teaching others and performing actions can.