Communications Internship with CoFSA at UNDP: Transforming Global Food Systems through Sustainable and Conscious Practices
Communications Intern position with the Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA) at UNDP is an opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in communications, content creation, and sustainability-related advocacy.
What is CoFSA?
CoFSA is an initiative led by UNDP that brings together experts in food, agriculture, and consciousness to promote sustainable food systems. The goal is to help people working in food and agriculture build inner capacities (like mindfulness, resilience, and leadership) to drive systemic change towards sustainability.
Key Responsibilitieshttp://UNDP Communications Intern Job Listing
As an intern, you’ll be assisting with:
- Content Creation: Writing newsletters, updating social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube), and creating communications materials.
- Graphic Design & Video Editing: Designing visuals, flyers, and editing videos using tools like Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro).
- Website & Digital Engagement: Helping to manage the CoFSA website and supporting engagement campaigns.
- Event Support: Organizing webinars, workshops, and maintaining a community platform.
- Data & Research: Collecting, analyzing, and presenting data in reports, presentations, and briefings.
- Administrative Tasks: Taking meeting minutes, managing mailing lists, and organizing documents.
Who Can Apply?
You qualify if you are:@vacancyspaces.com
- A final-year undergraduate student, enrolled in a graduate program, or a recent graduate in fields like communications, journalism, environment, agriculture, sustainability, economics, or international development.
- Experienced in writing, social media, and digital communication.
- Skilled in design and video editing tools.
- Fluent in English.
Internship Conditions
- Unpaid, but may include a small stipend.
- Home-based (Remote work).
- Must have medical insurance and provide a certificate of good health.
- No guarantee of employment after the internship.
What’s Unique About This Role?
Unlike a regular communications internship, this role connects sustainability and mindfulness—focusing on transforming food systems through inner development. If you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, food systems, and storytelling, this could be a great opportunity to gain international experience with the UN.
Would you like help with a CV or cover letter tailored for this role? 😊
Certainly! Below is an in-depth breakdown of the Communications Intern role at UNDP’s Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA), covering every aspect of the job, including background, responsibilities, qualifications, required skills, and career benefits.
Understanding the Role of the CoFSA Communications Intern at UNDP
Introduction
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading global organizations working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering innovation, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth. Within the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS), UNDP has established specialized hubs that focus on Nature, Climate, Energy, and Food Systems to drive systemic transformation across multiple sectors.
One of the key initiatives within this framework is the Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA)—an innovative movement dedicated to integrating consciousness-based approaches into global food and agriculture systems. CoFSA recognizes that addressing food system challenges requires not just external policy shifts but also inner transformations among individuals and communities.
The CoFSA Communications Intern will play a crucial role in this mission by supporting outreach, storytelling, knowledge dissemination, and engagement strategies through digital media, publications, and events. This internship provides an opportunity for students or recent graduates to develop their skills in communication, design, social media, research, and sustainable development while working with a global network of experts and organizations.
About the Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA)
The Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA) is a UNDP-led initiative that unites food, agriculture, and consciousness practitioners around a shared vision:
🔹 To cultivate inner capacities that drive systemic change within food and agriculture systems.
🔹 To support farmers, policymakers, and food industry leaders in making sustainable, inclusive, and mindful decisions.
🔹 To develop tools, programs, and research that demonstrate how mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and well-being practices can improve the resilience and sustainability of food systems.
Why CoFSA?
The world’s food systems are in crisis due to climate change, economic instability, biodiversity loss, and inequitable agricultural practices. Many efforts to fix these issues focus on policy, finance, and technology, but CoFSA takes a unique approach:
✅ Transforming mindsets and behaviors to inspire long-lasting change.
✅ Integrating mindfulness, well-being, and holistic approaches in food and agriculture policies.
✅ Creating a Community of Practice and Learning where diverse stakeholders collaborate to share knowledge and strategies.
As an intern, you will be part of a movement that is reshaping the future of food systems through consciousness-based approaches.
Internship Responsibilities
The CoFSA Communications Intern will contribute to a variety of projects and initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and engagement around CoFSA’s work. Key tasks include:
1. Content Development & Digital Engagement
🔸 Drafting and updating communications content for the CoFSA newsletter, website, and social media platforms (LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube).
🔸 Researching and writing blog posts, articles, and case studies related to CoFSA’s mission and activities.
🔸 Assisting in the editing and proofreading of reports, publications, and other written materials.
2. Social Media & Multimedia Production
🔸 Designing eye-catching visuals, infographics, flyers, and social media posts using Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).
🔸 Editing videos for CoFSA’s YouTube and social media platforms using Adobe Premiere Pro or similar software.
🔸 Managing and growing CoFSA’s digital presence by scheduling posts, tracking engagement, and monitoring analytics.
3. Event Planning & Community Engagement
🔸 Assisting in the preparation and organization of webinars, workshops, and training sessions for CoFSA members.
🔸 Supporting the management of virtual and in-person meetings, including taking minutes and drafting follow-up reports.
🔸 Helping coordinate the CoFSA Community of Practice, which facilitates peer learning and collaboration among food systems stakeholders.
4. Knowledge Management & Research
🔸 Conducting research and compiling data on food systems transformation, sustainability, and consciousness-based practices.
🔸 Organizing and maintaining CoFSA’s knowledge repository, ensuring that documents and reports are easily accessible.
🔸 Supporting the development of case studies, reports, and presentations that highlight CoFSA’s impact.
5. Administrative & Logistical Support
🔸 Managing mailing lists, internal databases, and photo assets.
🔸 Assisting in translating and proofreading documents (if applicable to your language skills).
🔸 Providing general administrative support to the CoFSA team.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Education Requirements
Candidates must be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in one of the following fields:
✅ Journalism, Communications, or Media Studies
✅ Environmental Science or Sustainability Studies
✅ Agriculture or Food Systems
✅ Economics or International Development
✅ Political Science or Social Sciences
Skills & Experience
While prior work experience is not required, the ideal candidate should have:
✔ Strong writing and storytelling skills (experience in journalism, blogging, or research is a plus).
✔ Knowledge of social media management (LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube).
✔ Experience in graphic design and video editing (using Adobe Creative Suite or similar tools).
✔ Ability to conduct research and present findings in clear, engaging formats.
✔ A strong interest in sustainability, food systems, and global development issues.
Language Requirements
🔹 Fluency in English is mandatory.
🔹 Additional languages (Spanish, French, etc.) are a plus but not required.
Table of Contents
Internship Conditions & Benefits
🔹 Location: Remote (home-based).
🔹 Duration: 6 months.
🔹 Compensation: Unpaid (but may include a small stipend, depending on UNDP policies).
🔹 Medical Insurance: Interns must provide proof of health insurance before starting.
🔹 Learning Opportunities:
✅ Gain hands-on experience in a global development organization.
✅ Work on real-world sustainability and food system challenges.
✅ Build a professional network with experts and partners in the UN system.
Why Apply for This Internship?
This internship offers a unique blend of communication, sustainability, and social impact work. You’ll gain:
✔ Real-world experience in international development and environmental communications.
✔ Creative opportunities to design and manage content for global audiences.
✔ Networking opportunities with professionals from UNDP, NGOs, governments, and sustainability-focused organizations.
✔ A deeper understanding of food systems transformation and consciousness-based approaches.
If you’re passionate about communications, sustainability, and social change, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful contribution while developing valuable career skills.
Application Process
To apply, submit the following:
📌 CV/Resume
📌 Motivational Letter explaining your interest in the role
📌 If selected, additional documents (school transcript, reference letters, passport copy, medical insurance proof) will be required.
⏳ Deadline: March 10, 2025
🌎 Apply via UNDP Careers Website: www.undp.org/internships
Need Help With Your Application?
I can help craft a strong CV and motivational letter tailored to this role. Let me know if you’d like assistance! 😊
Sure! Here’s an even more detailed explanation of the CoFSA Communications Internship role at UNDP, which expands on various aspects of the responsibilities, skills, qualifications, and the broader impact of the role on both personal and global levels. The goal is to create a comprehensive narrative of what the internship entails, what the expectations are, and how it can contribute to a candidate’s career development and the larger mission of Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA).
Comprehensive Breakdown of the CoFSA Communications Internship at UNDP
Background on UNDP and CoFSA’s Role
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a key player in international development and is focused on accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP works with countries to strengthen policies, institutions, and capacities, which are essential for sustainable development. The organization integrates both social and environmental dimensions into its approach, working toward inclusive development that fosters both economic growth and social well-being.
Within the broader context of UNDP’s work, the Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA) stands out as a unique initiative that acknowledges the need for transformation at both the macro (policy and institutional) and micro (individual) levels to build more resilient and sustainable food systems. Food systems are at the core of many of today’s global challenges, from climate change to inequality and food insecurity. CoFSA aims to rethink food systems by incorporating mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and personal growth into the broader process of policy-making and business strategy. By advocating for a shift toward holistic, sustainable practices, CoFSA seeks to empower stakeholders at all levels of the food systems chain, including farmers, policymakers, and consumers, to adopt conscious approaches to food production, consumption, and governance.
The CoFSA Communications Intern will play a crucial role in expanding the Alliance’s visibility, engaging with various stakeholders, and ensuring that key messages are effectively communicated across multiple channels.
Key Responsibilities of the CoFSA Communications Intern
The CoFSA Communications Intern will engage in a variety of tasks aimed at advancing the organization’s mission of transforming global food systems. Below are the major responsibilities expected from the intern.
1. Content Creation and Writing
One of the primary responsibilities will involve creating compelling content that communicates the values, ideas, and activities of CoFSA. These include:
🔸 Writing Articles & Blog Posts: Craft engaging and well-researched pieces that explain the impact of CoFSA’s work and its relevance to key stakeholders (e.g., government officials, businesses, farmers).
🔸 Crafting Case Studies & Success Stories: Compile real-world examples that demonstrate how consciousness-based approaches have successfully transformed food systems.
🔸 Contributing to Newsletters: Assist in creating and editing the CoFSA newsletter, which may include highlights of new projects, upcoming events, and important news about the food system transformation.
Content creation will focus on sustainability, mindfulness, and the personal and collective journey of transforming food systems, ensuring that the message resonates with a broad audience, from the general public to industry professionals and policymakers.
2. Social Media Management & Digital Outreach
In today’s digital age, social media platforms are essential for engaging with diverse audiences. The intern will assist in:
🔸 Managing CoFSA’s Social Media Accounts: Help craft and schedule posts on platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter, making sure the content is relevant, informative, and engaging.
🔸 Content Creation for Social Media: Develop creative visuals, infographics, and short videos that simplify complex topics for visual learners and encourage action.
🔸 Monitoring Analytics: Regularly track engagement, reach, and other important metrics across social media platforms to assess the effectiveness of posts and adjust strategies accordingly.
As CoFSA aims to amplify its voice, engaging and innovative social media strategies will be crucial to expanding its network and reaching more people interested in transforming food systems through mindful and sustainable practices.
3. Multimedia Production
Communication is most effective when it uses multiple formats to reach different types of learners and audiences. The intern will gain valuable experience in:
🔸 Video Editing: Using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, the intern will help edit videos that showcase CoFSA’s work, events, and important milestones. This may include clips from webinars, interviews with food systems experts, or behind-the-scenes content from major CoFSA activities.
🔸 Graphic Design & Infographics: Create visually appealing materials that effectively convey complex data or key messages. Tools like Canva or Adobe InDesign may be used to design high-quality infographics or flyers for CoFSA’s events and initiatives.
4. Event Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement
The intern will help organize webinars, workshops, and community events aimed at spreading CoFSA’s message and fostering collaboration within the food systems community.
🔸 Webinar & Workshop Support: Assist with event promotion, preparing presentation materials, and coordinating logistics for virtual and in-person events.
🔸 Engaging Stakeholders: Act as a point of contact for CoFSA partners, answering questions, coordinating responses, and helping to build relationships.
🔸 Community Building: CoFSA is about fostering a learning community. The intern will help nurture this community by engaging with participants during and after events, ensuring continued collaboration, and documenting key insights from events.
5. Research and Knowledge Management
Research is essential for shaping the narratives that guide CoFSA’s content and outreach. The intern will:
🔸 Conduct Research on trends in the global food systems space, including the role of sustainable practices, consciousness-based food practices, and innovative food policies.
🔸 Create Knowledge Databases: Assist in organizing research findings and case studies into a coherent knowledge management system, making it easier for CoFSA’s team and partners to access valuable resources.
🔸 Analyze Impact: Help with data collection, analysis, and reporting on the effectiveness of CoFSA’s communication efforts and its broader impact on food systems transformation.
6. Administrative Support
The intern will also provide critical administrative support to ensure smooth operations for the CoFSA communications team.
🔸 Document Management: Keep track of documents, reports, and other materials in an organized manner so that the team can access them easily.
🔸 Managing Mailing Lists: Assist with updating mailing lists, sending communications to key stakeholders, and tracking responses.
🔸 Supporting Team Communications: Assist with day-to-day internal communication, helping team members stay on track with deadlines and project goals.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be eligible for the internship, candidates need to meet the following qualifications:
Educational Requirements
Applicants should have either:
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (or be enrolled in a degree program) in a relevant field such as Communications, Journalism, Environmental Studies, Agriculture, Sustainability, or International Development.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong writing and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively.
- Experience with graphic design and multimedia production (familiarity with tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro).
- Understanding of food systems and sustainability (previous coursework or involvement in related fields is an advantage).
- Social media literacy, particularly in managing professional accounts and creating content that resonates with online audiences.
- Research and analytical skills, including experience with data gathering, synthesis, and presenting findings in an accessible manner.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
Language Skills
Fluency in English is required. Additional language skills (such as Spanish, French, or others) are highly desirable.
Learning Outcomes and Career Benefits
While the CoFSA Communications Internship is a professional development opportunity, it is also an investment in your long-term career trajectory. Interns will gain:
- Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience in international development communications, working on global initiatives that directly contribute to shaping the future of food systems.
- Exposure to UNDP’s Work: Working at the UNDP offers unparalleled exposure to the UN system and its strategies for tackling global development challenges.
- Networking Opportunities: Build a network with international experts, including sustainability professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders.
- Skill Development: Develop a broad set of transferable skills in writing, multimedia production, and event coordination. These are essential for future careers in communications, sustainability, or international development.
Conclusion
The CoFSA Communications Internship at UNDP is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates who are passionate about sustainability, food systems transformation, and effective communication. You will gain hands-on experience, contribute to a global mission, and be part of an innovative movement that is influencing change at both the individual and global levels. By integrating mindfulness and sustainability practices into food systems, CoFSA is working toward a more conscious world—and you can play a role in that transformation.
If this role excites you, make sure to submit your application by March 10, 2025, and be ready to embark on a rewarding journey with CoFSA and UNDP.
Feel free to let me know if you’d like help tailoring a CV or motivational letter for the application! 😊
