Apply for the UNDP Communications Support Internship in Pretoria, South Africa. Gain hands-on experience in strategic communications, social media management, advocacy, and programme coordination. Ideal for Master’s students passionate about diversity, inclusion, and development.
About the Internship
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Pretoria, South Africa, is offering an exciting opportunity for aspiring communications professionals through its Communications Support Internship. This six-month, full-time internship, located at UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa, is designed for students currently enrolled in a Master’s degree or recent graduates who are eager to gain practical experience in international development communications.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, equity, and inclusion form the cornerstone of UNDP’s operations. The organization actively fosters an environment where all personnel are empowered to contribute meaningfully, with a strong focus on ensuring equitable representation for underserved populations. Applicants from marginalized or excluded groups, including sexual and gender minorities and young key populations disproportionately affected by HIV, are strongly encouraged to apply.
The #WeBelongAfrica Programme
The internship is embedded within UNDP’s HIV and Health Group (HHG), which works to reduce inequalities and social exclusion that drive HIV and poor health outcomes. A key initiative under HHG is the #WeBelongAfrica (WBA) Programme, launched in 2020. WBA supports state entities in sub-Saharan Africa to become more accountable, responsive, and inclusive of LGBTI+ communities and young key populations.
Key WBA projects include the Inclusive Governance Initiative (IGI) and the Southern Africa Young Key Population Initiative (SAYKPI). By strengthening dialogue between governments and communities, WBA aims to foster improved legal and policy environments, responsive public services, and social norms that affirm the perspectives, needs, and rights of these populations.
Achievements and Impact
Over the past five years, WBA has advanced LGBTI+ inclusion within sustainable development goals, strengthened civil society organizations’ capacity to respond to challenges, and produced knowledge products informing policy reforms. In 2024, WBA launched the International Pride Awards to recognize leadership and advocacy for LGBTI+ equality and established an online community hub to promote visibility, knowledge sharing, and access to relevant information.
Responsibilities of the Communications Support Intern
The successful intern will work closely with the WBA communications team to:
- Manage social media platforms and develop marketing strategies to inform and engage external audiences.
- Craft publicity and communication materials, including blogs, human interest stories, videos, banners, and flyers.
- Support communications efforts for the 2026 International Pride Awards.
- Monitor media coverage, track current events and trends, and contribute to analytics reporting.
- Assist with day-to-day programme activities, including event organization, partner support, and report preparation.
- Conduct research and monitoring of LGBTI+ inclusion and rights issues across focus countries.
Required Skills and Competencies
Candidates should possess:
- Strong social media skills for platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
- Understanding of strategic communication in development contexts.
- Proficiency in MS Office and attention to detail.
- Excellent English communication skills.
Desirable additional skills include graphic design using Adobe Creative Suite or Canva, knowledge of LGBTI+ and young key population issues, and fluency in French, Portuguese, or Spanish.
Internship Conditions
Interns are expected to work full time, with flexibility for educational commitments. UNDP internships are not remunerated; interns are responsible for travel, visas, accommodation, and health insurance. Interns are not UNDP staff and cannot officially represent the organization.
Why Apply
This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in strategic communications, advocacy, and international development while contributing to the inclusion and empowerment of marginalized communities in Africa. Motivated students passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion are encouraged to apply and make a tangible impact.
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