[General][Interview series] Interview with former NKDB intern Cosima Davies

27 Jun 2024
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We are happy to follow up with our interview series with NKDB’s former interns. This time we would like to introduce you to Cosima Davies who interned in 2023. She agreed on sharing with us her meaningful experience and inspiring journey on North Korean human rights.


[Full interview]

Please introduce yourself

"I am Cosima. I worked with the NKDB last year in April and May 2023. I developed an interest in North Korean human rights after reading several books on the topic. I discovered NKDB while searching for an NGO to work with on this issue."


What did your tasks look like when you worked at NKDB?

I performed various tasks. I collected information to contribute to a research project on forced repatriation, wrote texts for their website and newsletters, assisted in preparing for NKDB’s 20th anniversary, and helped kick-start the international 'NKDB Academy' with the other interns.


Are there any specific projects or initiatives you worked on during your internship that you found particularly meaningful or impactful? If so, could you share them with us?

Working on the academy with the other interns was particularly meaningful because it was a project we could build up from the ground, and it was enjoyable to work together with them.


Can you share with us what you've been up to since your internship with NKDB? How has your journey evolved professionally and personally?

When I ended my internship, I returned to the United Kingdom to complete my bachelor's degree. My dissertation focuses on North Korean human rights abuses during forced repatriation, a topic that my internship at NKDB significantly influenced. I am now actively seeking a job in the human rights sector, preferably at an NGO, which is definitely influenced by my internship experience.


Reflecting on your time with NKDB, what were some of the most valuable lessons or experiences you gained during your internship? How do you think you could apply these in your future endeavors?

One of the most enlightening aspects of my internship with NKDB was the opportunity to gain new perspectives by learning from experts who were knowledgeable, inspiring, committed, and hardworking and have dedicated years to this cause. This experience has been a significant source of my personal growth and learning. The NKDB team is so welcoming and kind.

I was also close with the other interns, and it was fun because it was a very international cohort and a group of people I would not have met anywhere else. 


How do you believe your involvement with NKDB has influenced your understanding of North Korean human rights issues, and has it shaped your career aspirations or goals in any way?

My initial understanding of North Korean human rights came solely from reading books. The internship with NKDB changed my perspective through firsthand experiences and meeting North Korean people. This practical experience was illuminating and inspiring, and it gave me a lot of drive. You gain a whole new perspective when it is right in front of you instead of only reading dry material.

It has shaped my career aspirations, leading me to pursue a career in the human rights sector, working for an NGO.


Looking back, what advice would you give to current or prospective interns interested in working with organizations focused on North Korean human rights or similar causes?

From an international perspective, it was initially daunting because it was far away, and I did not know what to expect. However, the most daunting experiences are often the most rewarding. So, if anyone is interested in applying, just go for it! It has been an amazing opportunity to meet experts who are kind and willing to help. An internship with NKDB is a great learning experience and also a chance to do something meaningful.

To current interns: make the most of your time. This means constantly asking questions to the staff, volunteering for various tasks, and actively participating. If you have a particular interest, ask if there is anything you can do related to that topic or make suggestions.