Africa Intern - Paid

About International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES): IFES advances democracy for a better future. We collaborate with civil society, public institutions, and the private sector to build resilient democracies that deliver for all. Our technical assistance and applied research develop trusted electoral bodies capable of conducting credible elections; effective and accountable governing institutions; civic and political processes in which all people can safely and equally participate; and innovative ways in which technology and data can positively serve elections and democracy. Since 1987, IFES has worked in more than 145 countries, from developing to mature democracies.In accordance with IFES' approach: A society is able to reach its full potential in a world in which people of all genders are fully engaged as equal partners in their families, workplaces and communities. Based on international human rights standards and best practices, IFES promotes political participation, justice, and equal rights around the world. IFES reflects these values in its programming and workplace culture.

The greatest assets of IFES are our team members. IFES offers competitive benefits and pay, as well as the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Every member of the IFES team is responsible for carrying out the mission of IFES and integrating IFES values into their work every day: Commitment to Excellence, Effective Communication, High-Quality Decision-Making, Accountability, Teamwork, and Collaboration.

PRIMARY FUNCTION/PURPOSE:

This full-time, paid intern position is an entry-level role within the Africa Programs team designed to provide graduate, undergraduate, or recently graduated students with an insider's view of international development at IFES. The Africa team manages projects across the continent focused on elections and political processes, anti-corruption, civic education, inclusion, and social cohesion. As a junior member of the team, the intern will provide administrative and programmatic support to the Africa team's projects.

The incumbent of this position will be required to come to the IFES office in Arlington, VA, on a hybrid schedule. The incumbent must be able to commit to 30 hours per week for at least five months beginning in early 2025.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the supervision of the Senior Program Manager for Africa, activities may include but are not limited to:

• Providing logistical and administrative support to ongoing projects in the Anglophone Africa portfolio, such as Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, and Sierra Leone;
• Drafting and editing programmatic reports for donors;
• Reviewing invoices and expense reports and submitting payments through Accounts Payable system;
• Supporting Program Officers with budget development and tracking of expenses, as well as procurement and contracting;
• Conducting research to support business development efforts or other departmental initiatives;
• Attending and notetaking for internal and external meetings on assigned projects;
• Supporting planning and implementation of IFES outreach activities, including website articles and social media posts; and,
• Other duties as assigned by the department and/or supervisor.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education: Undergraduate or graduate student currently enrolled at an accredited college/university or recently graduated (no more than a year ago) at the time of application. Coursework related to international development, democracy and governance, project management, and/or Africa preferred.

Experience: Relevant experience, familiarity, or interest in international development or related field preferred. Previous internship experience with an international NGO a plus.

Related Skills or Knowledge: Professional communication skills - both verbally and in writing. Excellent research and report writing abilities. Demonstrated knowledge of socio-political developments in Africa. Detailed oriented and organized, a lover of trackers. Proficiency in MS Office suite. A quick learner when it comes to learning policies, procedures, and operating systems. Ability to prioritize, take direction, and handle varied tasks within deadlines. Collaborative, team-oriented individual who enjoys working in multicultural settings. Demonstrated passion for the IFES mission.

Language Skills: Native-level English is required. Proficiency in another regional language is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT: Standard office work environment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.