Sweden gave the world ABBA and the Volvo automobile. However, if Louise Ander is anything to go by, the Swedes will soon be known for providing the world with people who have a positive attitude towards social responsibility.

At first glance, Ander seemed quiet and modest. She sat upright in her chair as we spoke, unfazed by the activity on her computer screen; it was a sure sign of her attentiveness. She kept her hands on her lap like a diligent student would.

Ander, a third year student from Mid Sweden University, is the fifth Swedish intern to join Masimanyane.

She is part of an exchange programme, arranged by Mid and the University of Fort Hare, which requires third year social work students to complete a six month practical abroad in order to attain their degree.

She hails from the small town of Piteå in the north of Sweden. The town is famous for pitepalt, a dish consisting of potato dumplings and chopped pork fillings. Tourists are attracted to this scenic archipelago, which is popular for skiing in winter. She remembers it as a place where avid skaters, like her, enjoyed gliding the iced lakes during the colder months.

However, she has no qualms about swapping frosty weather for the milder climes of East London. When asked about her new home, her description is one that many locals are familiar with.

“It’s a pretty calm and laidback city. It’s beautiful with the sea,” she said.

Initially, South Africa was not her first choice to complete her practical but positive feedback from fellow students influenced her decision.

“I was going to South America but changed my mind after reading the reports from previous students who were at Masimanyane.”

Before arriving in South Africa, Ander’s knowledge of the country was limited to apartheid, Nelson Mandela and opinions from others about its striking landscapes.

“I was also told it was very dangerous,” she said, referring to the crime. “That’s the change I have to adjust to.”

Judging by her unassuming manner, Ander will be well equipped to face any challenge. One of these setbacks is her lack of transport in the city. However, she has proven her resourcefulness by opting to cycle instead.

Having gained experience at a childrens’ rights organisation in Sweden, Ander now looks forward to honing her skills as a social worker by observing Masimanyane’s counsellors and public educators.

“I want to learn how to reach out to people through these training programmes.”

Once Ander graduates from university she will immerse herself in social work immediately. She hopes to work closely with refugees seeking asylum in Sweden, most of which comes from Afghanistan and Somalia.

“The government welfare sector is quite big in Sweden but I would like to work with refugees.”

Perhaps by serving humanity, her influence will stretch across continents, just like other great Swedish exports.