Summer Intern, Africa Center

Overview

The Atlantic Council’s Africa Center promotes dynamic geopolitical partnerships with African states and helps redirect US and European policy priorities toward strengthening security and bolstering economic growth and prosperity on the continent. Interns are an integral part of the Center’s work. Interns work closely with Africa Center staff to provide important research and logistical support to the Center. They are also encouraged to participate in and attend events hosted by other programs at the Atlantic Council.

We have an all-hands-on-deck approach that requires our interns to actively engage with our events, meetings, communications, publications, and strategies. As a result, this position exposes interns to various writing and publishing procedures, the logistical elements of event planning, and the process of creating strategic initiatives within a think tank. With a work culture of continual learning, an inclination toward deadlines and a demonstrated passion for Africa and African affairs through class work and/or experience is strongly preferred. Demonstrated interest in international affairs, specifically African Affairs, through classwork and/or experience is preferred.

Applications reflecting strong writing and editing skills will be prioritized for consideration. This internship is preferably based in our Washington, DC headquarters on a hybrid schedule, at a rate of $17.50 per hour. Current undergraduate or graduate students are encouraged to apply.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct research to support the activities of the Center.
• Support coordination and execution of logistical elements for Africa Center events.
• Participate in regular Africa Center meetings and monthly Atlantic Council meetings.
• Draft formal correspondence to government officials and invitations for events.
• Take notes at Council roundtables and strategy sessions for program archives.
• Track Africa Center media appearances.
• Assist the Center in promoting publications, events, and press mentions.

Qualifications

• Must be at least a college junior in good standing, a graduate student, or a recent graduate, preferably majoring in international affairs/relations, African studies, economics, or a related field.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written – live and virtual), including the ability to identify and work through challenges, underscored by strong judgment and emotional intelligence.
• Strong writing and editing skills to include experience drafting business letters, proposals, and short articles.
• Experience with social media campaigns, databases, and/or events management are desired.
• Strong analytical, planning, time management, and organizational skills are critical for success.
• Ability to anticipate needs, follow up on requests, and maintain a sense of organizational priorities strongly encouraged.
• Familiarity with diplomatic protocol and etiquette.
• Poise and professionalism in a team environment across hierarchies with colleagues and counterparts in the United States and abroad.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Aptitude and strong skills in research and writing are required.
• Ability to work full-time (40 hrs/week) is strongly preferred.

This summer internship will run from June 3, 2024 – August  2, 2024. Applications close on April 5 at 11:59 PM EST and require a resume and cover letter.