Support the development of inclusive governance frameworks that empower rural communities to manage their resources and shape their future.
The Challenge
Across Latin America, extractive industries such as mining and large-scale resource extraction threaten the delicate balance between people and the environment. In the central Andes of Ecuador, vast areas have been concessioned for metallic mining, putting local water sources, soils, and biodiversity at serious risk. These activities often divide communities, creating tensions and misinformation while silencing the voices of those most affected.
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At the same time, global consumption and demand for minerals—used in everyday products like phones and cars—are rarely connected to their social and ecological costs. Many rural families, who live directly from the land, are left out of the conversations and decisions that shape their future. Building awareness and understanding around these issues is essential to promote responsible choices, both locally and globally.
The Solution
We believe that environmental conservation begins with informed and engaged communities. This internship invites you to explore the complex relationship between extractivism, ecology, and local livelihoods through research, dialogue, and education. Interns may work with community leaders, educators, or local organizations to document local realities, facilitate conversations, or create educational materials that amplify the voices of those protecting their territories.
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Our Proven Methodology
Our internship programs are built around the transformative Design Thinking methodology, ensuring that every solution meets the unique needs of low-income populations. You’ll engage deeply with local stakeholders to understand root challenges, co-create ideas, and test solutions that drive real impact. Through immersive guided tours, social innovation workshops, and hands-on prototyping, you’ll collaborate to build and refine sustainable initiatives. By the end of your experience, you’ll not only gain professional skills but also create lasting resources that empower communities and future interns to continue this meaningful work.
Recommended by Previous Participants
Advance Your Career!
Gain experience in environmental research, communication, and sustainability with the support of trained mentors to expand your knowledge and build your confidence.
Now more than ever, employers are looking for a resume with diverse experiences, certificates and strong references that an internship provides.
Results from Past Internships
Check out this final presentation from previous interns, to see what they've achieved during their time here
"A wonderful experience"
I participated in their Culture and “El Terreno is a wonderful #experience to learn about the realities of economic, social, and cultural problems, and engage in meaningful work that contributes to sustainable solutions.
Luke from the USA (Law & Community Governance)
What's Included?
Free Discovery Call & Plan
Flexible Start Date & Duration
Educational Documentation Support
Pre-Arrival & Travel Support
Shared Accommodation with WiFi
(Family Homestay also Available)
Lunches Monday to Friday
Weekly Professional Learning/Mentoring
In-Person Coordination
Cultural Immersion
Free-Time Recommendations
Certificate of Completion
Written Reference
Additional Services
Private Room within a Local Family Homestay
Spanish/Kichwa Classes (before or during visit)
Private Transfer from Airport
Additional Professional Mentoring Sessions
Washing Services
Application Process
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Fill out the online interest form
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Participate in your discovery call, free of charge
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Review your personalised internship plan, free of charge
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Place your deposit & confirm your place
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Complete any required documents for your education provider
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Join us for an unforgettable experience in the Ecuadorian Andes!
Gain Experience.
Make a Difference.
Travel the World.
Imagine waking up to the cockerels at dawn as the sun rises over the horizon as you take in Chimborazo volcano over your morning coffee. After breakfast, walk down to meet your mentor, stopping to say hello to the friendly neighbours in the community as they take their cows to pasture.
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Spend an hour to talk through your plans with your mentor, deepening your technical knowledge and finding out how to implement it within the local environment. Then take a trip into the colonial city of Guaranda to do some shopping and stop at a café to do some more research. Get back in time for lunch, which you spend with the rest of the team and workers from the local community, sharing stories and learning about the local culture.
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Meet with your coordinator in the afternoon, to plan your pilot project or present your findings to the local community, before joining other interns and volunteers to go and watch the sunset, go out to a local bar/restaurant or simply spend the evening learning more from your host family.
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Still not sure what a hands-on in the Ecuadorian Andes would look like? Speak to our team who will create you a personalised internship plan to give you a glimpse into the future, all free of charge.
