Philippines renewable energy internship empowers intern

Tessa: "It’s more than just an internship – it’s an opportunity to learn and grow in ways you can’t even imagine."

The Philippines is a country of contrasts: bustling megacities and remote tropical islands, traditional culture and colonial influence, extreme wealth and poverty, thriving nature and climate change vulnerability. This diversity is what makes it such an exciting and rewarding place to be an international intern.

Alternergy is a Philippine pioneer in renewable energy, with a proven track record of developing, building, and operating power projects across the country.

The company's quadruple-bottom-line approach prioritises profitability, carbon reduction, host-community benefits, and employee fulfilment to build a more sustainable future for the Philippines.

Tessa with tourism leaders in Alabat where she worked on a project looking at community benefits of renewable energy

My internship focussed on the community benefits of renewable energy, and I researched tourism opportunities in Alabat Island following the upcoming completion of Alternergy’s wind farm.

This project enabled me to learn more about the renewable energy industry in the Philippines and gain a better understanding of tourism, sustainability and rural life.

I also visited Alabat twice during my internship and had the opportunity to present the results of my research to leadership both in Alternergy and in Alabat.

It was truly rewarding to see that my internship had produced something of real value to the company and community.

Tessa presenting her research to local leadership in Alabat

Outside of work, I took every opportunity to explore the Philippines.

Some weekends, I stayed in the city and explored the diversity of metro Manila, from the historic Intramuros (a walled part of the old city) to the modern Bonifacio Global City - home to multinational corporations, the Philippine Stock Exchange and the country's tallest building.

Other times I ventured beyond, traveling to the beaches of Boracay and the underground river of Puerto Princesa.

Tessa (right) and fellow intern Silvia on a weekend trip to Puerto Princesa

I chose to extend my trip by an extra month, allowing me to see and do as much as possible during my time in the Philippines. I chased waterfalls in Cebu, sailed to remote islands in Palawan, and learned to surf in Siargao.

These experiences showed me a side of the Philippines that wouldn’t have seen if I stayed in the city, and I was in awe of the beauty and hospitality of this incredible country.

Tessa and friends canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, Cebu

My internship was not without its challenges, but this is what took my experience from a holiday to a valuable learning experience.

Living alone in a new country was definitely outside of my comfort zone, and there were moments of loneliness and homesickness. But these challenges are what developed my confidence, resilience and independence.

By getting through such moments, I have become stronger and developed skills which will benefit me both in my career and personal life.

Tessa and Silvia exploring Intramuros (walled city) in Manila

So what advice would I give to those considering an international internship? Do it.

There will be highs and lows, but you will learn so much about yourself and the world along the way. It’s more than just an internship – it’s an opportunity to learn and grow in ways you can’t even imagine.

The Foundation's Business Programme supports New Zealand companies to better understand Asia so they can make the most of opportunities in the region. It also supports to grow the next generation of Asia-savvy business leaders.

Our internship programme helps interns build a better understanding of the people, place and culture of their Asian host country, while developing industry-specific skills that will benefit them as they progress in their careers.