ABOUT US

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Since its founding in 1949, the Institute has been driving change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most critical challenges facing communities in the United States and around the world. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

To achieve our mission of a more free, just, and equitable society, we commit to working proactively to advance the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion across our myriad endeavors such as the recruitment, compensation, training, and advancement of staff. The best people-serving institutions make this commitment, and we seek to be a leader in the ways that we do so and learn from others. Visit our website to learn more about our commitment and recent actions taken toward building and nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment.

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GLOBAL OPPORTUNITY YOUTH NETWORK (GOYN)

The Global Opportunity Youth Network (www.goyn.org), hosted at the Aspen Institute Forum for Community Solutions, is a pioneering, collaborative effort to support “Opportunity Youth” – young people aged 15-29 who are out of school, unemployed, or working in informal jobs – in communities around the world. GOYN addresses systemic barriers that prevent youth from accessing opportunity. GOYN’s current footprint includes 17 communities in nine countries (Brazil, Colombia, Haiti, India, Kenya, Mexico, Senegal, South Africa, and Tanzania) with plans to grow to new communities.

GOYN engages multiple partners and stakeholders across ecosystems, from young people and local NGOs to employers, funders, and consultants. At the global level, GOYN is supported by a group of technical and funding partners, including Global Development Incubator, Prudential Financial Inc., Accenture, Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, and Fondation Botnar as well as several other philanthropic partners.Â

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ABOUT THIS ROLE

GOYN is seeking a highly motivated and creative Communications Intern to support its global communications and engagement efforts. The intern will contribute to a range of strategic communications priorities, including content creation, digital storytelling, and visibility for GOYN’s Global Convening, Narrative Change multimedia campaign, and other partnership development initiatives.

Our ideal candidate is a strong writer, visual communicator, and proactive collaborator who brings enthusiasm for international development, equity, and youth partnership.

This role reports directly to the Senior Program Associate. This internship will be hybrid working out of the Washington D.C. office 40% of the time, at 20 hours per week for 16 weeks.

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WHAT YOU WILL DO

Communications Strategy & Content Creation (Primary)

• Develop and execute a content calendar for social media, newsletter, and web updates.
• Draft and edit copy for GOYN platforms, including LinkedIn, newsletters, and website articles.
• Design, build and update branded communication assets (imagery and visuals) using Canva.
• Support design and maintenance of engaging content (visual or written) of the GOYN website through the WordPress platform.
• Support drafting and developing content for GOYN’s mass communications outreach to stakeholders.
• Support the launch of publications, campaigns, and events with tailored messaging for different audiences.
• Maintain and enhance GOYN’s photo and comms asset library.

Project Support (Secondary)

• Assist with communications planning and outreach related to GOYN’s Annual Convening.
• Contribute to visibility materials for the Narrative Change multimedia campaign launch, including stakeholder-facing content.
• Support partner development through copyediting and formatting proposals and funder updates.

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WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• Gain hands-on experience developing and implementing strategic communications for a global youth development initiative.
• Build skills in creating content for diverse platforms, including social media, websites, newsletters, and campaign materials.
• Strengthen your writing and editing skills through real-time feedback on professional copywriting and storytelling.
• Collaborate with multicultural teams and learn to adapt communications across cultural and regional contexts.
• Develop professional experience in the international development and youth economic opportunity sectors.

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WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO THRIVE

• Strong written and visual communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in digital communications, marketing, or social media strategy.
• Proficiency in Canva and familiarity with email platforms (e.g., iContact) and website tools (e.g., WordPress).
• Experience developing and managing content calendars.
• Interest in international development and youth opportunity initiatives.
• Cultural competency and ability to work effectively with a diverse, global team.
• Excellent time management, attention to detail, and organization.

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To Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following to the Aspen Institute website:

• Resume
• Short cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience
• Portfolio or examples of communications work (optional but may be requested during the interview process)

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and prescription benefits, retirement benefits, and paid leave.

The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all District and federal laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against.

The Aspen Institute welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs, including the interview process. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please email hrsupport@aspeninstitute.org or call 202-736-2127 in advance of your visit. Requests for ASL or CART services should be made at least two weeks in advance when possible. We will make every effort to fulfill requests, subject to availability.