Communications intern at SEI Africa

SEI is an international non-profit research and policy organisation that tackles environment and development challenges. We connect science and decision-making to develop solutions for a sustainable future for all. SEI has eight centres around the world in Sweden, the UK, the US, Thailand, Kenya, Estonia and Colombia.

SEI Africa is based here in Nairobi at the World Agroforestry Centre. The centre’s main research areas are: Energy and Climate; Natural Resources and Ecosystems; Sustainable Urbanisation; and Health and Environment. The centre collaborates with African governments, organisations and networks, acting as a hub for SEI’s engagement across the continent.

Internship description

We are looking for an enthusiastic intern to join and support communications activities at SEI Africa. The ideal candidate should have a passion for the environment and development agenda and be comfortable working in a highly driven research organisation.

S/he will work under the Communications Officer to promote the work of SEI Africa among diverse stakeholders using multiple channels. The work will involve generating content and publicity materials for digital, print and social media; as well as assisting with media engagement and events.

SEI Africa supports capacity building of young professionals and internships are viewed as a learning opportunity to engage in tasks that help develop skills and support career growth.

Main tasks

• Support planning and execution of communication activities as per the set work plan
• Support gathering/creation of content (photos, videos, human interest stories, news/events stories etc) of ongoing programmes and projects for uploading on the SEI Africa webpage on a regular basis
• Gather regular and engaging content on the Africa centre activities for sharing on the SEI social media platforms
• Assist the Communications Officer with planning and managing of the centre’s high-level events including all related communications activities
• Support in organising regular training sessions on needed communications skills for centre staff
• Support research teams in preparing and compiling content for a variety of key publications and communication materials.
• Maintain key lists and contacts of SEI Africa’s stakeholders, the media and other collaborating bodies and ensure engagement whenever required for the promotion of the centre’s work
• Assist in preparing and organising media and outreach activities for effective coverage of SEI Africa’s work in Kenya and the rest of Africa
• Assist with information gathering on funding opportunities/partnerships for SEI Africa
• Assist in and/or carry out other tasks according to need and as assigned

Skills and qualifications required

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Media and/or information studies
• Professional qualifications in a relevant communications area e.g PR, journalism, corporate communication, science communication
• 1-2 years’ post-college experience
• Ability to understand and repackage technical information
• Well-developed written and verbal communications skills
• Ability to work with a diverse international team
• Excellent digital and social media skills
• Ability to work effectively and calmly in a high-pressure environment and to prioritise and effectively manage assignments in a timely manner
• Quick learner
• Strong multimedia skills including photography, audio/visual and information technology
• Proficiency in French and Swahili is an added advantage
• Commitment to SEI Africa’s mission

Duration

The internship period is 6 months starting on the appointment date.

How to apply

Please send in your application to info-africa@sei.org before 25 September 2018. Please note that only shortlisted applicants meeting the above requirements will be contacted.

NB: SEI Africa does not pay a salary for internship positions however we give a taxable stipend of USD 500.