Apply for Doctors Without Borders Donor Engagement and Events Internship Opportunity 2026
Apply for the Donor Engagement and Events Internship with Doctors Without Borders in Johannesburg. This 12-month opportunity offers hands-on fundraising experience, a stipend, and valuable exposure to humanitarian work.
The Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Southern Africa is offering a Donor Engagement and Events Internship based in Johannesburg. This opportunity is ideal for graduates or early-career professionals who are passionate about humanitarian work and interested in gaining experience in fundraising, donor engagement, and event coordination.
With applications closing on 3 April 2026 and an immediate start date, the internship provides a 12-month learning experience within a globally recognized humanitarian organization. The selected intern will join MSF’s fundraising department and support initiatives aimed at strengthening donor relationships and mobilizing financial support for life-saving medical interventions.
About the Organization
Doctors Without Borders, also known as Médecins Sans Frontières, is a global network of medical and humanitarian professionals dedicated to delivering emergency healthcare to communities affected by conflict, disasters, epidemics, and limited access to healthcare. The organization operates in more than 70 countries, providing essential medical services and advocating for vulnerable populations.
MSF Southern Africa plays a vital role in mobilizing support from individuals and communities within the region. The fundraising team focuses on inspiring donors to contribute to humanitarian efforts and sustain MSF’s global operations.
Internship Overview
The Donor Engagement and Events Intern will report to the Retentions Manager and work closely with the Donor Engagement and Events Officer. The role involves supporting fundraising events, managing donor communications, assisting with merchandise initiatives, and contributing to donor retention activities.
This internship offers hands-on exposure to fundraising operations, donor relationship management, and event logistics. The intern will also gain practical experience using customer relationship management (CRM) systems and supporting digital fundraising platforms.
The position requires a proactive individual who demonstrates strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality. The intern will also engage directly with donors through various channels, including email, telephone, and online platforms.
Key Learning Areas
During the internship, the successful candidate will gain knowledge and experience in several core areas. These include event planning and coordination, merchandise management, and customer care responsibilities. The intern will also develop skills in CRM management, donor database administration, and fundraising strategy implementation.
These learning opportunities are designed to equip participants with practical competencies relevant to careers in nonprofit fundraising, marketing, communications, and stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
The intern will support proactive event planning and engagement activities. This includes assisting with the organization of fundraising events such as marathons, webinars, school visits, and donor-led initiatives. The role also involves tracking merchandise sales and event-related activities, ensuring proper documentation, and supporting logistics.
Another core responsibility involves donor communication. The intern will respond to inquiries, update donor profiles, acknowledge contributions, and maintain accurate records in the CRM system. These interactions are crucial for strengthening donor relationships and improving retention.
Administrative and reporting duties also form part of the role. The intern will assist with updating fundraising files, supporting quality checks, contributing to standard operating procedures, and maintaining the merchandise website. Additionally, the intern will collaborate with the donor care team to improve retention and loyalty program performance.
Candidate Requirements
Applicants should hold at least a National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel, is required. Knowledge of databases, events management, and website tools will be advantageous.
The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple deadlines. A willingness to learn donor relationship management and fundraising processes is essential.
Competencies and Personal Attributes
The role requires individuals with a passion for humanitarian causes and a strong customer service orientation. Candidates should possess attention to detail, initiative, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Additional attributes include professionalism, confidentiality, cross-cultural awareness, and the ability to work under pressure. The intern should also align with MSF’s values, including respect, transparency, integrity, accountability, trust, and empowerment.
Remuneration and Benefits
The internship offers a comprehensive support package to enable the intern to perform effectively. Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of R5,000
- 100% medical aid contribution
- Transport allowance
- Cell phone allowance
- Access to workspace and necessary resources
These benefits, combined with the structured learning environment, make this internship a valuable opportunity for professional development.
Duration and Commitment
The internship requires a 12-month commitment, providing sufficient time for the intern to gain meaningful experience and contribute to fundraising initiatives. The role may involve flexible working hours, particularly during event coordination periods.
Application Details
Interested candidates should submit their applications before the closing date of 3 April 2026. The position is based in Johannesburg, and applicants should be prepared for an immediate start.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to work within a respected humanitarian organization while developing practical skills in fundraising, events management, and donor engagement. Individuals passionate about making a difference and building careers in the nonprofit sector are encouraged to apply.
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