Bridging Analytics and Community Impact
My Internship with BICOR Vie et Capitalisation in Burundi
By Chris Levy Remesha Ngabo
Hello, my name is Chris Levy Remesha Ngabo, and I’m a rising junior majoring in Mathematics. I am currently interning at BICOR Vie et Capitalisation this summer of 2024 in Bujumbura, Burundi.
After orientation, I began working closely with BICOR Vie et Capitalisation’s analytical department under the supervision of one of its managers, Spes Caritas Gahimbare. I have gained proficiency in the primary software tools used by the company to maintain updated client information. Specifically, I have worked extensively with Excel and Jupyter Notebooks. This experience has been incredibly enriching, allowing me to deepen my understanding of analytical models and coding. I am excited about how this complements my already developed analytical skills, providing a robust foundation for my future endeavors.
The culture at BICOR Vie et Capitalisation ensures that interns can explore various sectors and departments, including the representative team. I have had the chance to collaborate with this team, bringing forth new and innovative ways to raise awareness about the company's products and services. Working in a team of three, we dedicated time to planning and organizing community events to promote the company's offerings. A major highlight was organizing a one-day event at the company's headquarters in Bujumbura, designed to show appreciation for current clients, both organizations and individuals. This event will feature gift-giving and celebrations in honor of our clients. Through this experience, I have significantly enhanced my teamwork and communication skills, learning how to effectively plan, organize, and execute events while engaging with diverse audiences.
Other highlights from my internship have included working closely with fellow Burundian youth, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie. This collaboration has been instrumental in understanding and embodying the company's core values, which are deeply centered around people and community. These values resonate with me and have provided a meaningful framework for my work. Additionally, I've had the opportunity to contribute creative and innovative ideas to BICOR Vie et Capitalisation, helping to shape projects and initiatives that align with the company's mission and vision.
Engaging with my peers has not only enhanced my teamwork skills but also broadened my perspectives on how to approach various challenges. Learning the company's core values has been a transformative experience, highlighting the importance of community involvement and ethical practices. This alignment with the company’s principles has made my contributions feel impactful and aligned with a larger purpose.
At BICOR Vie et Capitalisation, I have found a dynamic and supportive workplace that truly values my contributions and actively encourages my involvement. I'm excited about the upcoming ARC event, an annual conference for insurance companies in Burundi, where my team and I will proudly represent and promote BICOR Vie et Capitalisation's products and services.
About the Whitman Internship Grant Program
These experiences are made possible by the Whitman Internship Grant (WIG), a competitive grant that funds students in unpaid internships at nonprofit organizations, some for-profit organizations, and governmental and public offices. We’re excited to share blog posts from students who have received summer, fall, or spring grants, and who are working at various organizations, businesses, and research labs worldwide.
To learn more about securing a Whitman Internship Grant or hosting a Whitman intern at your organization, contact us at ccec_info@whitman.edu.