Best Marketing and Communications Internships for 2023
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MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS INTERNSHIP IN MALAWI
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
A MULTI-FACETED EXPERIENCE IN DIGITAL MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, WRITING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Gain valuable experience in communications at a grassroots nonprofit organization! You’ll be part of a small but fast-growing NGO that supports permaculture clubs for children in rural Malawi, and you’ll help develop and manage their communication channels.
This Media and Communications Internship in Malawi involves a wide rage of tasks, including content writing, social media, public relations, and fundraising, so you can expect a multi-faceted experience. At the same time, you’ll get to be involved in some of the projects on the ground, which will give you a good understanding of the way charitable projects run at a grassroots level. It’s a great opportunity for students of Communication Studies, Media Studies, Journalism, Fundraising, or related fields.
ORGANIZATION
Malawi Schools Permaculture Clubs (MSPC) is a nonprofit that promotes permaculture principles to children in Malawi. Based in Nkhata Bay, in the north of the country, the organization supports primary school teachers in the area who want to run after-school permaculture clubs. MSPC provides all the relevant training and tools for the teachers, as well as a structured club program for them to follow. This includes a resource pack of weekly lessons and activities, basic equipment needed to run clubs, and infrastructure to support and motivate teachers throughout the year.
The aim of the program is to teach children how to care for and regenerate their natural environment, to value their local resources, and to learn how to produce their own nutritious food. MSPC works with 600 children at over 15 different schools, and has plans of expanding the program to other areas of Malawi.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Responsibilities
As a media and communications intern, you’ll have the opportunity to get involved in the following areas:
- Development of communication strategies
- Social media (content creation & strategy)
- Newsletters
- Grant writing
- Photography and videography (if you have relevant skills)
- Content and blog writing
- PR
Requirements
- A strong interest in development programs
- Passion for creating unique digital marketing campaigns
- Strong communication skills
- Great written English
- A flexible attitude and ability to work in a dynamic environment
- Ability to work quite independently
- Bring your own laptop
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay at a popular backpackers in the northern town of Nkhata Bay. Located on Lake Malawi, with views of palm trees and green-blue water, this lodge has an idyllic location and a relaxed vibe. You’ll enjoy a private beach, beautiful gardens, a lakeside bar, and communal spaces. The rooms are comfortable 6 bed dormitories, although there are options of upgrading to single chalets (at an extra fee). The lodge is a hub for people who are volunteering their time at different communities and environmental projects in the area, so you can expect to share this space with like-minded people.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Malawi is considered to be safe for tourists, however, being a developing country with poverty, there is petty crime. Keep your belongings securely stored and close to you, don’t walk alone in the dark, and report any suspicious behavior that you may see to the accommodation/host organization.
Communication
Communication
You’ll be able to use your phone in Malawi with roaming data turned on or a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked. Visit Airtel or TNM stands for a SIM and purchase 1000MK ‘Airtime’ (for calls), and a data bundle. Wi-Fi is not an amenity offered in Malawi, so you will need to buy data bundles from a provider for work and personal use.
Meals
Meals
A meal package is included for the first month that suffices for two meals per day (breakfast and lunch/dinner). For the next months you can either book a meal package or eat locally. There is also a small kitchen available for basic cooking. Meals are prepared through Mkana Cafe, the restaurant on-site. The menu includes many international dishes and is also vegetarian-friendly. Make sure to notify us in advance of any allergies/dietary needs.
Location details
Location details
Nkhata Bay is a lively ferry port on the shores of Lake Malawi with a bustling market which is one of the biggest cultural influences on the area. It offers many activities, such as snorkeling, boat/kayak trips, energetic football matches, and beach ventures. Explore Malawi via coach buses and boats, especially the iconic Ilala Ferry, which has been active since 1951.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Start and end dates of the internship are flexible and will be discussed during the application process. The organization is open to a remote internship, but preference and priority is given to interns on the ground.
What you’ll pay (2024 rates)
8 weeks USD 1,705
12 weeks USD 2,056
16 weeks USD 2,407
20 weeks USD 2,758
26 weeks USD 3,286
Remote internship – Placement fee USD 525
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- Accommodation in a dorm room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Two meals per day for the first month
- Laundry service
- Housekeeping service
- Assistance with your visa arrangement & other preparations
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Supervision & support during your stay
- Regular check-ins during your internship with you and your supervisor
- Access to workshops with a focus on career development
- Troubleshooting if needed
- A reference letter at the end of your internship
Exclusions
- Flights to Lilongwe
- Airport transfer to Nkhata Bay (approximately 400 km) – we can help you arrange this in advance
- Transport to the office
- Data package for internet connection
- Meals: 2 meals (breakfast & lunch/dinner) are included for the first month. For the following months, you can prepare your own meals or opt to book the meal package for two meals per day for USD 270 per month
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
GALLERY
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Malawi.
What can I expect from an internship in Malawi?
You can expect to foster a unique connection with the local community, as well as having many opportunities to explore various projects during your internship. If you wish to know more about what to expect, make sure to read our blog from a previous intern who traveled to Malawi!
How long can I do an internship in Malawi?
The minimum length of our internships in Malawi is two months, but the ideal length is closer to four months, if possible. This ensures you have an adequate amount of time to make a tangible impact. Luckily, the length of our programs is customizable so you can apply for a summer, remote, hybrid, or gap-year internship!
Can I get university credit for an internship in Malawi?
Yes, but you must ensure with your supervisor that your university approves this. You can also purchase transfer credits to add onto your internship experience.
How can I prepare for an internship in Malawi?
Personally, you can prepare by learning about the history and culture of Malawi and reflecting on your internship goals, and we’ll be here to help you with the rest! Ask us any questions you may have about placement logistics, matchmaking, check-ins, advice on visa/insurance, or anything else you may think of. If you wish to know more about preparing for your internship, you can check out our ultimate guide to NGO internships in Africa!
Will I receive a stipend during my Roots internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning for a nonprofit organization. Your internship will be unpaid so we’ve put together a few tips on how to fund your internship. There will be opportunities for professional and personal growth and you’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge that is invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
PROJECT FOCUS : Food Security
TASK FOCUS: Fundraising, Marketing, Social Media, Writing
LENGTH: 8-26 weeks
COST: From USD 1,705 (in-person) / USD 525 (remote)
REVIEWS
“A unique experience I was lucky to have! I'm very glad I stumbled upon Roots Interns 6 months ago. It has truly been a unique opportunity! At first I was a little nervous as I've never done a remote internship or worked with people from so far away in Africa, but stepping out of my comfort zone was exactly what I needed. After completing my internship I feel more confident in any potential global experience that will come my way. Everyone I've worked with from Roots and MSPC has been wonderful and I'm grateful for having this eye-opening experience.”
Isabella, United StatesRemote Media & Communications Internship
READ MORE REVIEWS
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain practical experience in Fundraising, Marketing, Social media, Writing
- Contribute to a nonprofit on a mission to teach children how to care for and regenerate their natural environment, to value their local resources, and to learn how to produce their own nutritious food
- Opportunity to get involved with school projects and the work in the gardens
- Gain a full insight in the day to day running of a nonprofit organisation
- Live and work in Nkhata Bay on the banks of lake Malawi
- Visit to one of the many islands, markets, craft stores or enjoy the beauty of Lake Malawi
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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