My growth journey through the SMEPEAKS Immersive Internship Programme (SIIP) 2025
The smepeaks internship completely changed the way I viewed media and my own potential. But first, let’s get introductions out of the way. I am Miracle Franklin Sambo, a curious mind fuelled by a passion for learning and creating. I approach every opportunity as a chance to grow, connect, and add value, which is exactly what I discovered when I joined smepeaks through the SIIP programme.
Now back to my growth story with SMEPEAKS through SIIP.
When I first applied for the smepeaks Immersive Internship Programme (SIIP), back in March 2025, I wasn’t trying to launch a media career; I just wanted to keep myself busy. I had to pause my hair business due to health concerns, and honestly, I was simply looking for something to fill the gap. I didn’t think I had much to offer outside the business space.
In fact, I almost didn’t apply at all. A friend had shared the SIIP link with me and literally had to force me to give it a shot. He believed I was a perfect fit, even though I didn’t believe that myself. I didn’t want to bother. At the time, all I really knew how to do was tell stories on my WhatsApp status to engage customers and promote my business. That was the extent of my “media” or “content” experience.
So, I joined SIIP with zero expectations. I had no formal editorial background, no newsroom experience, just raw interest, a decent writing voice, and an open mind. I thought I’d just be doing a few light tasks. But from the very first week, it was clear this wasn’t a casual setup.
Lessons from the SMEPEAKS Internship: Growth beyond expectations
SIIP wasn’t here to babysit interns; it was building capacity. I was introduced to real editorial structures, media workflows, and storytelling frameworks. I started writing articles, pitching ideas, and learning how content goes from raw thoughts to published pieces that inform and impact readers, like this coverage on Wasoko’s acquisition of Fatura. Every edit, review, and correction stretched me. I was learning how to think like a writer, not just write like one.
Then came the rotation. I got a taste of editorial work and social media coordination. I wasn’t just learning, I was being trusted with responsibility. That trust grew when I took on the role of intern lead. I began coordinating drafts, reviewing content, and helping other interns stay on track. I found myself rising to challenges I never thought I could handle.
The growth wasn’t only technical, it was mental. I started reading more, thinking deeper, and stretching myself beyond my perceived limits. I became more intentional with how I wrote, communicated, and even how I worked with others. My curiosity grew. So did my confidence.
SIIP helped me uncover skills I didn’t realise I had. From structuring content to managing editorial flow, from giving constructive feedback to working under pressure, it’s been a full-circle learning experience. It also gave me a safe space to ask questions, make mistakes, and figure things out without feeling judged.
Beyond the technical skills, the smepeaks internship helped shape my mindset. I became more organised, more curious, and more open to feedback. Every week brought a new challenge but also a new win. Whether it was hitting a tight deadline or supporting a team member, I was building habits I’ll carry into future roles. Now, I’m not the same person who started this journey months ago. I came in unsure of where I was headed. I’m leaving with more clarity, better writing skills, a stronger work ethic, and a mindset geared for growth. I now see career paths I hadn’t considered before — editorial strategy, content operations, digital media leadership — and I’m more confident in pursuing them.
Looking back, I’m glad my friend pushed me. I’m glad I took the risk. And I’m proud of how far I’ve come. SIIP didn’t just give me a place to stay busy; it gave me the space to grow.
Do you have an innovative business (small, mid-scale business or startup) that adds value, creates opportunities or solves bold problems? Then you`ve got a story worth telling? Shoot us an email with SUBJECT “Story Worth Telling (+Name of Business)” to [email protected]
