Communications and Programme Supports (Wildlife) at United Nations Environment Programme

The internship is for a minimum of three (3) months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of six (6) months, depending on the needs of the Wildlife Unit.

Interns work five days per week (35-40 hours), under the supervision of a staff member in the department or office to which they are assigned.

The Internship is UNPAID and full-time.

Responsibilities

• Daily responsibilities will depend on the individual's academic background, skill-set, the Intern's assigned office and duration of internship. Under the supervision of the Chief - Wildlife Unit, duties may include but are not limited to:
• Develop key communications materials, in print, online and for social media, for the Wildlife Unit;
• Support the team in drafting project concepts, proposals, and implementation agreements on subjects relevant to Wildlife, such as supporting coexistence of wildlife and humans, wildlife compatible economic development and others;
• Assist in the preparation of workshops, meetings and other events to take place in Nairobi and other countries to achieve programmatic results;
• Assist in the development of project proposals to a variety of donors;
• Communicate with project partners, consultants, implementers etc. on programmatic activities to support programmatic results;
• Undertake targeted desktop research to compile stories, facts, data and other pieces to inform program development;
• Assist in tracking key policy developments, including outcomes of meetings and related processes and prepare periodic digests of such information in succinct formats;
• Support other tasks or activities as required and in accordance with the intern's interests.

Competencies

• Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• Client orientation: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be “clients” and seeks to see things from clients’ point of view. Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect. Identifies clients’ needs and matches them to appropriate solutions. Monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients’ environment to keep informed and anticipate problems. Keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects. Meets timeline for delivery of products or services to client.

Education

Applicants must, at the time of application, meet one of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent); OR
• Have graduated with a university degree and, if selected, must commence the internship within a one-year period of graduation;
• Preferred area of study: graduation programme focused on Wildlife, Environmental Communication or related field. Demonstrated interest in Wildlife and Biodiversity will be a distinct advantage;
• Applicants must be pursuing qualifications in an area of study that can significantly contribute to the responsibilities outlined and overall work of the Wildlife Unit;
• Be computer literate in standard software applications with familiarity in social media and online communication;
• Excellent written and oral communications skills, with ability to articulate technical ideas in appropriate language for diverse audiences;
• Have demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and has a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter;
• Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which include willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.
• Upon completion of the assignment it is anticipated that the Intern will:
• Have improved communication skills through interaction with UNEP staff, Executive and Senior Management, governments and partner organizations;
• Have gained a better understanding of UNEP's operations and the overall United Nations system.

Work Experience

Applicants are not required to have professional work experience for participation in the Programme. Are you a student in a Bachelor’s (final year), Master’s or Ph.D. Programme or equivalent, or have you completed a degree and are able to commence an internship within a year of graduation?
Are you a student in a Bachelor’s (final year), Master’s or Ph.D. Programme or equivalent, or have you completed a degree and are able to commence an internship within a year of graduation?
Will you be able to cover the cost of travel including visa, accommodation and other living expenses for the duration of the internship?
Is your field of study closely related to the type of internship you are applying for?