join the IRF Roundtable team as an intern, or as we like to say, “ASSOCIATE."

Intern with us

At the IRF Secretariat, we recognize the significance of engaging the next generation in the global movement for religious freedom. Our internship programs are meticulously crafted to align with academic pursuits while offering invaluable hands-on experience. We aim to challenge students to cultivate their critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills in a real-world setting.

Throughout the year, we provide a range of internship opportunities catering to undergraduate, Master's, and PhD students, as well as recent graduates. Our goal is to ensure interns gain firsthand insights into NGO operations, collaborate with Roundtable members, contribute to working groups, analyze Multi-Faith Letters, and conduct legislative research on religious freedom issues.

Interns, whom we refer to as associates, play a pivotal role in advancing the IRF Roundtable's mission of advocating for religious freedom worldwide, irrespective of faith or belief. They actively contribute to fostering understanding and cooperation among diverse religious communities.

Intern Insights

Blog

What are IRF Associates learning? Hear from them!

Class of Fall 2024

Creative

Innovative

Driven

Creative • Innovative • Driven •

GRACE (DEITRICK) JOHNSON

Wesley Theological Seminary, Master of Divinity Student

Grace holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Communication with a concentration in Pastoral Ministries and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity with a specialization in Public Theology at Wesley Theological Seminary. As a London Honors Scholar at Houghton University, she studied abroad in London, focusing on humanities, theology, and religious movements. Grace's diverse experience includes providing humanitarian aid to refugees, leading discipleship programs, and fostering interfaith dialogue. Her strong skills in cross-cultural communication, curriculum development, and pastoral care make her a valuable addition to the IRF Secretariat.

ELEANOR FORSHAW

University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public & International Affairs

Eleanor is currently a second-year student at the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, concentrating in Security and Intelligence Studies. Eleanor has previously interned for Representative Dan Frankel of Pennsylvania and most recently served at the Baptist World Alliance. Her interest spans all sectors of international affairs, fueled by her unique perspective as a holder of three citizenships, which has enriched her understanding of global dynamics. Eleanor is eager to bring her enthusiasm and outgoing personality to the internship, with a focus on learning more about the professional world and contributing to meaningful change.

RUTH MESFIN GETACHEW

Bielefeld University Germany, Master of Sociology Student

Ruth is passionate about connecting with people, a drive that led her to pursue a career in Sociology, a field that explores the intricacies of human interaction and social dynamics. She completed her undergraduate studies in Sociology at Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia and is currently furthering her academic journey with a Master's degree in Sociology at Bielefeld University in Germany. Her areas of focus include Social Structure, Social Inequality, Political Sociology, Global World, and Gender Sociology, allowing her to gain a comprehensive understanding of the various dimensions of social life. She is fluent in Amharic, German, French and English.

PAST Associates

Internship Schedule

  • Fall

    Late August - Mid December

    Application Deadline: August 10

  • Spring

    Early January - Late May

    Application Deadline: December 10

  • Summer

    Early June - Late August

    Application Deadline: May 10

Internship

Opportunities

Areas of work

Not seeing exactly what you were looking for? Let’s chat and try to customize your role to what best suits your goals.

  • As a Communications Intern at the IRF Roundtable, you will play a crucial role in shaping and amplifying our messaging to diverse stakeholders. This internship offers a dynamic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in crafting compelling narratives, engaging content creation, and strategic communication strategies within the infrastructure sector.

    Key Responsibilities:

    1. Content Creation: Develop engaging content for various platforms, including website, social media, newsletters, and press releases. This may include articles, blog posts, infographics, and multimedia content.

    2. Social Media Management: Assist in managing IRF Roundtable's social media presence by creating and scheduling posts, monitoring engagement, and identifying opportunities for growth.

    3. Media Relations: Support the communications team in building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, drafting press materials, and coordinating interview opportunities.

    4. Research and Analysis: Research industry trends, policy developments, and best practices to inform communication strategies and messaging.

    5. Event Support: Assist in planning and executing virtual and in-person events.

    6. Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams within IRF Roundtable to ensure messaging alignment and support organizational objectives.

    Qualifications:

    1. Currently enrolled in a degree program in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.

    2. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an eye for detail and creativity.

    3. Familiarity with social media platforms and digital marketing tools.

    4. Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

    5. Proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and contribute to team goals.

    Benefits:

    1. Mentorship and professional development opportunities.

    2. Exposure to a diverse network of industry professionals and thought leaders.

    3. Hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization at the forefront of peace-building and advocacy.

    4. Flexible schedule and remote work options available.

    Note: This description is crafted to attract candidates who are passionate about communication and eager to contribute to the mission of the IRF Roundtable. Adjustments can be made based on specific organizational needs and preferences.

  • As an Operations Intern at the IRF Roundtable, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in supporting the IRF Roundtable’s day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. This internship offers a dynamic environment where you can contribute to various aspects of organizational efficiency, project management, and logistical support.

    Key Responsibilities:

    1. Administrative Support: Assist in general administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining organizational files and databases.

    2. Project Coordination: Support project managers in organizing and coordinating project activities, including tracking timelines, monitoring progress, and preparing project documentation.

    3. Data Management: Help in collecting, organizing, and analyzing data to support decision-making processes and evaluate program effectiveness.

    4. Event Logistics: Assist in planning and executing virtual and in-person events, including logistics coordination, participant registration, and on-site support.

    5. Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance organizational effectiveness through process optimization and implementation of best practices.

    Qualifications:

    1. Currently enrolled in a degree program in Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field.

    2. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.

    3. Detail-oriented approach with a focus on accuracy and quality.

    4. Proficiency in Google applications (Docs, Sheets, Forms) and familiarity with project management tools is a plus.

    5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

    Benefits:

    1. Mentorship and professional development opportunities to enhance skills in operations management and project coordination.

    2. Exposure to a diverse range of projects and initiatives within the infrastructure sector.

    3. Hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization at the forefront of infrastructure innovation.

    4. Flexible schedule and remote work options available.

    Note: This description is tailored to attract candidates with a strong interest in operations management and organizational efficiency. Adjustments can be made based on specific organizational needs and preferences.

  • Role Overview:

    As a Policy & Advocacy Intern at IRF Roundtable, you will play a vital role in analyzing government policies, regulations, and legislative initiatives related to international religious freedom and human rights. This internship offers a dynamic environment where you can gain hands-on experience in policy research, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement within the sector.

    Key Responsibilities:

    1. Policy Research and Analysis: Conduct in-depth research on government policies, legislative proposals, and regulatory frameworks affecting infrastructure development and renewal. Analyze the potential impact of policy changes on funding mechanisms, project financing models, and sustainability initiatives.

    2. Policy Briefs and Reports: Prepare concise and informative policy briefs, memos, and reports summarizing key findings, recommendations, and implications for IRF Roundtable stakeholders. Communicate complex policy information in a clear and accessible manner for diverse audiences, including policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public.

    3. Multi-Sector Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams and working group partners to gather input, solicit feedback, and build consensus around policy priorities and advocacy strategies. Participate in meetings, hearings, and working groups to represent IRF Roundtable's perspective on multi-faith action.

    4. Legislative Tracking: Monitor legislative developments, committee hearings, and regulatory updates at the federal and international levels.

    5. Data Analysis and Visualization: Use data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, statistical software) to analyze policy data and trends effectively. Create compelling visualizations, charts, and infographics to communicate key policy insights and findings to internal and external stakeholders.

    Qualifications:

    1. Currently enrolled in a degree program in Public Policy, Political Science, Government Affairs, or related field.

    2. Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to analyze government policies and regulations effectively.

    3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in preparing policy briefs, reports, or similar documents for government audiences.

    4. Familiarity with legislative processes, regulatory frameworks, and government decision-making processes.

    5. Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques, as well as data visualization software, is desirable.

    6. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

    Benefits:

    1. Mentorship and professional development opportunities to enhance skills in government policy analysis, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.

    2. Exposure to a diverse range of policy issues and stakeholders within the sector.

    3. Hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization at the forefront of the international religious freedom movement.

    4. Flexible schedule and remote work options available.

    Note: This description is tailored to attract candidates with a strong background in government policy analysis and a keen interest in religious freedom policy issues. Adjustments can be made based on specific organizational needs and preferences.

Let’s work together

Please note that this internship opportunity is unpaid. While we do not provide financial compensation, we offer invaluable hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. We believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth.

Meet the Internship Coordinator

“Investing in the growth of your early professional career is like planting seeds in fertile soil. The foundation you build today blossoms into the trees of tomorrow.”

— Kaylee Fisher, Global Operations Director

Favorite Books: Leadershift by John Maxwell & Atomic Habits by James Clear

Words to Live by: “To whom much is given, much is required.”

Fun Fact: Traveled to 17 countries