Among the range of programs offered by Hope Center Indy, the Internship Program has emerged as a launchpad for aspiring young professionals committed to driving positive change. Praise Kohol and Olivia Candlish recently completed their internships at Hope Center Indy. Praise Kohol was born in New Orleans to missionary parents stationed in Burkina Faso and completed her high school education in Nigeria. She is a junior at Taylor University, majoring in Global Studies with a concentration in International Relations while complementing her studies with a minor in Social Work. Olivia Candlish is an Indiana native who graduated from Princeton Community High School. She is furthering her education at Liberty University, where she studies Business Administration, focusing on Humanitarian Aid. Through their internships at Hope Center Indy, Praise and Olivia have had the opportunity to apply their academic learning to practical community work in many impactful ways.
As roommates living on the Hope Center campus, Praise and Olivia discovered a shared passion: fighting human trafficking and helping people. "I would want to become a human trafficking lawyer or work aside [alongside] an anti-trafficking organization. I am very passionate about this world issue. I know God has a plan, so I trust the process, and I trust Him. I could see myself traveling to different countries and letting God use me for ministry and His glory," said Praise. A conversation with a friend sparked her interest in Hope Center Indy. "My friend Maddy Potter goes to Taylor as well, and we met at an event. It didn't take long for us to get along and have a long conversation, which included my interest in human trafficking. She asked me this particular question: 'Have you ever heard about the Hope Center?' Before you knew it, I ended up there as an intern. After carefully reading about the Hope Center, I fell in love and decided to go there," she added.
Olivia approaches her future career with an open mind, looking forward to securing employment immediately after college. "I’m interested in anti-trafficking work and wanted to see what that could look like in a tangible way," said Olivia. She remains flexible about her role as long as she can make a difference.
Praise and Olivia spent their internships at Hope Center Indy immersed in activities that spanned the organization. Praise rotated through the Redefined Hope Boutique, The Food Pantry, The Prayer Center, and the Kitchen, gaining a multifaceted view of the center’s operations and building relationships with the welcoming and supportive community—including her roommate Olivia. "Olivia and I got along great; we went out from time to time to get ice cream, and it was always a fun time. I spent time with a lot of different people, and we always had fun together," said Praise.
Olivia's internship was primarily in the Finance department and the Redefined Hope Boutique. She appreciated the staff's support, which allowed her to learn and contribute effectively.
"The Hope Center has allowed me to get a deeper understanding of what running a nonprofit looks like on multiple levels," said Olivia. "This will help me as I move foward in my career. It was inspiring to see the staff work together to create a safe environment for the women that they serve." ~Olivia
Praise added,
"The Hope Center is a lovely place, and I recommend it to anyone who wants to work at a non-profit or learn about human trafficking. The people there are wonderful, and you can feel God's presence everywhere you go. The goals that everyone has for the Hope Center and the reason why they are there have truly touched me. I love that place with all of my heart, and I want to thank everyone for their kindness and love toward me; I will never forget them ever, they have a special place in my heart. I enjoyed getting new outfits and jewelry at the boutique, learning how to make my drink, etc, and being around all the people that I worked with. There was never a dull moment; they were all amazing, great team, and my interactions with the residents were very touching; thank you to the two who were so kind to me. I am so thankful to God for this opportunity and everything that happened. Thank you all! Love you with all of my heart. ~Praise"
After their time at Hope Center Indy, Praise and Olivia emerged with valuable skills to use in their career paths. Praise is continuing her education, taking specialized courses to deepen her understanding of human trafficking and international law, and preparing for a career in nonprofits and possibly law related to human rights. Olivia gained practical insights into nonprofit management, which she is applying in her final year of college while actively seeking job opportunities.
Praise and Olivia represent two of the 13 dedicated interns Hope Center has had the privilege of mentoring as they pursue their career and ministry goals. It is a blessing for Hope Center Indy to nurture leaders like these young women who are ready to make a significant and meaningful impact in the world for Christ.
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