My Internship Experience at ATD Ireland: A Space for Learning and Engagement
For the past two months, I have had the opportunity to intern with All Together in Dignity (ATD) Ireland as a student. Although my time with the organisation has been relatively short, it has been a particularly rewarding experience, both academically and personally. This placement has given me a deeper understanding of the dynamics of social exclusion, the importance of involving people affected by poverty in the actions that impact them, and the role that everyone can play in building a fairer society.
Upon arriving at ATD, I was immediately struck by the diversity of the people involved in the organisation: volunteers, students, interns, but most notably, people with ‘lived experience of poverty.’ Far from a model where you simply ‘help’, ATD creates a ‘space for dialogue and mutual learning.’ Through the various activities and meetings I’ve participated in, I’ve realised how essential it is to centre people affected by poverty in discussions. Listening to their stories and understanding their realities helps to deconstruct many prejudices and fosters a more human and respectful approach to social issues.
One of the distinctive features of ATD is its focus on creating a ‘secure and caring space,’ where everyone feels entitled to express themselves. As an intern, I am always encouraged to share my ideas and get actively involved, which has allowed me to develop my skills in ‘teamwork, communication, and project management.’ I also observe how ATD uses ‘participatory methods’ to ensure that people living in poverty can genuinely influence decisions and projects. This approach has made me realise that the fight against poverty should not just be about ‘giving a voice’ to marginalised people, but about creating an environment where ‘that voice is listened to and taken into account.’
Even in just two months, I can see how this space fosters active citizenship, both in the interns and volunteers, and in the people supported by ATD.
- For the interns and volunteers, this experience represents much more than just an academic one: it transforms the perception of inequalities and strengthens commitment to social causes.
- For people with lived experience of poverty, ATD offers them a framework where they can regain their self-confidence, share their experiences, and get involved in advocacy actions.
This process of active participation has a lasting impact: it’s not just about understanding poverty, but about working together to find concrete solutions for social change.
In these two months, my placement with ATD Ireland has given me a new perspective on social justice and inclusion. I’ve learned that the fight against poverty can only be effective if it is carried out with the people affected, not simply for them. This experience has had a profound effect on me and will undoubtedly influence my academic and professional career. I am very happy to be part of the team.
Anthiosse Supreme GEORGES
