Meet Dorokasi Nizigimana, a Senior at Cornerstone University majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Marketing. Dorokasi just wrapped up a two-semester internship with Kennari.
My experience with Kennari Consulting has taught me many valuable concepts, including the importance of teamwork, as well as how vital it is to create relationships with clients and others around you. My internship involved learning how nonprofits use their missions and stories to cultivate those who will support them. At Kennari, I valued collaboration with team members from all departments; I attended nonprofit clients’ meetings and gained insight into working with donor databases, campaign development, and project research.
One of the best experiences I had at Kennari was managing their Roundtable programs. Each month, Kennari staff present on a topic to provide clients an opportunity to learn and discuss components of their fundraising programs. Some topics included year-end appeals, common challenges with monthly giving programs, and more.
Dorokasi Nizigimana, Kennari Intern
During my internship, I had the opportunity to attend the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Grand Rapids Leadership Awards. This event recognized incredible professionals and nonprofits in the community, and highlighted their resilience during these challenging times. I also had the opportunity to virtually attend the Young Professionals of Color Conference. This conference helped me learn ways to be successful in any profession in America – especially as a person of color –and how to strive forward through adversity.
I want to thank Kennari Consulting for giving me this opportunity and opening my world to many learning opportunities. I am grateful to the entire staff for being so welcoming and understanding. Thank you for providing me with this opportunity to learn about the organizations that are making an impact in the Grand Rapids area communities. Thank you for everything; I will cherish this opportunity forever!
Dorokasi was a joy to have in the office the last two semesters! Her willingness to help with any project, big or small, was greatly appreciated by the team. We wish her the best as she finishes up at Cornerstone and begins her career!
To learn more about Kennari Consulting’s internship program, check out our careers page.