2025 CAPI Interns

Daniela is a third-year Political Science student with a passion for advocacy and community organizing. Originally from Ecuador, she moved to Canada at the age of 15 and is now eager to immerse herself in a new cultural experience in Jakarta, Indonesia. Through her work with the Center for Indonesian Policy Studies, she hopes to expand her understanding of the region, engage with local communities, and learn firsthand about Indonesia’s rich history and traditions. This journey presents an incredible opportunity for growth, and she looks forward to sharing her experiences along the way.

Jaiya Chauhan is a third year Psychology and Computer Science student at the University of Victoria. He will be travelling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to work with the Malaysian Social Research Institute (MSRI). Jaiya has a passion for learning about new cultures, languages and religion. He is very excited to work with the students and staff on programs to address mental health in the community and raise support for MSRI. He is grateful to the CAPI program for providing this opportunity, and can't wait to begin working with MSRI.

Gwen Elmhirst

Gwen is in her final year of her Sociology degree at the University of Victoria.  Gwen is passionate about connecting with people, being in community with others, and learning from new experiences. She will be one of the interns working as a program assistant at the Malaysian Social Research Institute (MSRI) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for 2025. Gwen loves eating good food, time spent outdoors exploring, and painting in her spare time. She is looking forward to creating meaningful relationships with the students, staff, and fellow interns at MSRI.

Jannae is a 3rd year English and History double major who has a passion for music, reading, and spending time with her friends and family. She will embark on a journey to Karenni Social Development Centre (KSDC) where she will teach English and immerse herself in a culture that is so rich in community and joy. She is very excited for this opportunity and is excited to share her experiences through her blog posts!

Tara is a first-year law student at the University of Victoria. She will be working at the Centre for Indonesian Policy Studies (CIPS) between May-November 2025 with the support of the Queen Elizabeth Scholars program. She looks forward to learning about the work of CIPS and experiencing the language, culture, nature, and food of Indonesia!

Rowan Moore is a 4th year English student at UVic. He will be working with the Karenni Social Development Centre in Northern Thailand beginning in June 2025. Outside of his studies Rowan has spent the last two summers planting trees northern B.C. and Alberta. He enjoys playing soccer, having fun with close friends, and spending time with his three brothers. He is excited to teach English literacy and comprehension to Karenni students, learn about the Karenni people, and make lasting connections with people in the community. He is looking forward to everything that comes with this internship from the great times to the challenges. Rowan is extremely grateful to have this opportunity and is eager to begin the work. 

Hanna is a third-year student at the University of Victoria, where she is studying Political Science with a minor in Global Development Studies. Originally from Mexico, Hanna brings a deep appreciation for culture, community, and connection into everything she does. She is passionate about social justice, gender equity, and creating inclusive spaces that center lived experiences.

Hanna will be travelling to Khao Lak, Thailand, where she will be working with the Foundation for Education and Development (FED), supporting projects related to healthcare and migration. She previously participated in the Thailand Field School, an experience that shaped her understanding of community resilience and strengthened her commitment to grassroots work.

Outside of her studies and internship, Hanna enjoys reading, exploring nature, and film photography. She’s especially excited to learn from FED And build meaningful relationships throughout her time in Thailand.

Amina Turner is a third year Geography and Environmental Studies student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree. She will be interning with the Foundation for Education and Development (FED) in Khao Lak, Thailand. 

She will be working in the organization's education and environmental sector, supporting and promoting migrant youths access to education rights in Thailand, as well as encouraging a sustainable environment. She has always had a deep interest in researching an array of cultures and has spent many summers immersing herself—travelling is a big part of her life.  Amina also grew up on an organic farm and knows the importance of access to healthy food, as well as the benefits of connecting to nature. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to learn and grow as an individual through this experience. 

Away from school, you will find her spending time at coffee shops with her friends and family, learning new recipes, and spending time outdoors.  She has a deep connection with the sea and spends her summers lounging on the beautiful beaches on the West Coast. Amina is looking forward to working with and contributing to the impactful work of the FED organization.