Mirelle Mah'moud reflects on the Cape Town Cohort

A Transformative Summer in Cape Town: Lessons in Social Impact and Personal Growth 

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with Khulisa Social Solutions in Cape Town, South Africa, through the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact. My experience was transformative, as I navigated the  complexities of social justice, community engagement, and personal growth in one of the most vibrant and challenging cities in the world. 

Immersing in Social Justice Work 

Throughout my internship, I was immersed in the intricate social dynamics of Cape Town. My role involved working closely with Khulisa, an organization focused on restorative justice and social rehabilitation. Our office reviewed case files of offenders facing charges for minor crimes, such as theft and substance use, and it was here that I learned about the importance of Diversion programs in South Africa. These initiatives give offenders the chance to take responsibility for their actions without facing prosecution, allowing them the opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. This firsthand exposure to the South African criminal justice system deepened my understanding of how restorative justice addresses the root causes of criminal behavior and encourages long-term change. 

Confronting Inequality and Learning Resilience 

One of the most eye-opening aspects of my time in Cape Town was witnessing the stark inequality that exists between racial groups. Visiting Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years in prison, was a pivotal moment in my journey. Walking through the prison corridors and seeing Mandela's tiny cell was a powerful reminder of the resilience, courage, and hope that fueled the anti-apartheid struggle. The visit reinforced my belief in the importance of forgiveness, justice, and education in overcoming the darkest times.

Small Acts of Impact 

Before this internship, I viewed social impact as achieved through large-scale projects. However, my experience in Cape Town shifted this perspective. I realized that social impact can be just as meaningful through small, everyday actions. One simple yet memorable moment was when my colleague Emily and I donated items to Khulisa and our housekeepers. The immense gratitude we received highlighted the immediate, personal nature of the impact, reminding me that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting effect. 

Personal Growth and Cultural Exploration 

Beyond the lessons I learned through my work, my time in Cape Town was also filled with countless personal and cultural experiences that shaped me in profound ways. Living on my own for nearly three months, I developed a deep sense of independence and adaptability. Whether it was cooking my own meals with Emily, navigating the city, or adjusting to schedule changes, I grew confident in my ability to handle challenges independently—skills that will undoubtedly serve me well as I pursue a career in medicine. 

Cape Town also offered endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. My cohort and I bonded over weekly hikes, and too many visits to the V&A Waterfront. We attended concerts, visited markets, and even participated in a cooking competition with a celebrity chef (which Emily and I won with our seafood curry!). I also had the chance to experience the rich cultural history of South Africa, from the galleries of First Thursdays to a traditional Braai at Blake House, where we cooked lamb and potatoes over an open fire. Also BTW, our song of the summer was called "Sour" by Young Jessy in our cohort. Each of these experiences allowed me to connect more deeply with the city and its people.

Reflecting on a Life-Changing Experience 

Looking back, my time in Cape Town was one of immense learning, growth, and gratitude. The city's beauty, complexity, and challenges left a lasting impact on me, shaping both my personal and professional trajectory. As I continue my journey at Dartmouth and beyond, I am excited to carry the lessons of resilience, community, and social justice into my future career as a physician, particularly in serving marginalized communities. 

Cape Town taught me that social impact is not only about large initiatives but about understanding the everyday struggles of individuals and offering compassion and support wherever possible. It's about confronting inequality, learning from history, and standing up for what is right. I am incredibly grateful to the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact for this opportunity and look forward to applying what I have learned as I move into the next chapter of my life.