International Horticulture Internship: Grace’s Journey from Africa to the United States
Meet Grace Nyatichi, a passionate international horticulture intern from Kenya, currently training in Apopka, Florida, through the CAEP program. With a degree in Agribusiness Management from the University of Nairobi, Grace’s journey reflects her dedication to growing her knowledge and skills in agriculture, and she is eager to make a lasting impact when she returns home.
“I joined CAEP to gain international experience in agriculture, specifically in the USA, because my country, Kenya, is still a developing country. I also wanted to have an intercultural experience.”
Training at GreenMasters in Florida has been an eye-opening experience for Grace, where she is learning invaluable skills in a highly advanced environment. “Our director, Filip Edstrom, has been able to impact my life very positively,” Grace shared.
Each day brings new tasks and learning opportunities. Grace spends her time preparing plant orders for shipping and future orders in the greenhouse. “I’ve learned a lot about time management and quality preparation. Customers require plants to be in good shape and appearance,” she said.
Her ultimate goal is to return to Kenya and use the knowledge and skills she’s gained to benefit her community. “My goal for the program is that when I go back home, I can transfer the knowledge and skills that I have acquired throughout the process to my community.”
Looking ahead, Grace is eager to use these skills on her own farm. “I aspire to become a farmer. I will be able to use these skills on my own farm and I hope I will be able to achieve the type of quality that I have been able to experience in this program,” she explained.
Grace also emphasizes the importance of hands-on training in agriculture. “Farming is a practical activity. You can’t learn to ride a bicycle just by reading a book—you need to practice on the bike itself. That’s why hands-on training is crucial. By being on the farm and taking part in the activities, I’m getting first-class experience that I can use in the future.”
While in the U.S., Grace has had the opportunity to explore a dream destination—New York. “One of my dream destinations has always been New York, and this program allowed me to travel there.” She visited Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty, highlighting her unforgettable cultural and personal experiences during her internship.
“I recommend CAEP because it is a very helpful organization,” Grace shared. “It [CAEP] will help you locate your host and help you plan your process of coming to the USA. The coordinators will hold your hand throughout the way until you complete your program– so a hundred percent recommend CAEP for anyone who feels like they want to explore this opportunity to come to the USA for an agricultural training. Last but not least, this program enabled me to make friends from all over the world– really great friends that I will stay in touch with.”
Through the CAEP program, Grace is gaining professional experience, broadening her worldview, and making lifelong memories. She’s excited to return home and apply everything she’s learned to support her community and contribute to Kenya’s agricultural development.
If you are interested in an international agriculture experience, please visit www.caep.org or email agriculture@caep.org for more information.