Mercy Corps, a renowned global humanitarian organization, is inviting applications for the position of Communications Intern at its AgriFin Program Office in Nairobi, Kenya. This opportunity offers a unique chance for emerging professionals to develop and sharpen their communication skills while contributing to high-impact events and initiatives that shape the future of agriculture, innovation, and resilience in Africa.
About Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps operates with a clear mission: to help people triumph over adversity and build strong, resilient communities. With programs active in over 40 countries, Mercy Corps has earned a reputation for driving innovative solutions that help populations affected by crisis or underdevelopment navigate challenges and achieve sustainable change.
The organization works in partnership with local communities to deliver bold solutions in times of disaster, conflict, and poverty. Mercy Corps believes in the power of people and innovation as essential components for lasting impact. Through initiatives that foster economic development, peacebuilding, and food security, Mercy Corps helps ensure vulnerable communities can withstand crises and chart a pathway to a better future.
About the AgriFin Program
The AgriFin Program, housed within Mercy Corps, is dedicated to enhancing the productivity and livelihoods of smallholder farmers through the use of digital financial services, technology, and strategic partnerships. By facilitating inclusive innovation and strengthening systems, AgriFin ensures millions of farmers across Africa have access to the tools they need to succeed.
One of the program’s most impactful platforms is the Annual Learning Event (ALE), now in its 9th edition. This event brings together stakeholders from across the agricultural innovation ecosystem—including development organizations, private sector actors, government officials, and farmer representatives—to exchange insights and learnings that propel sectoral transformation.
Position Title: Communications Intern
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Category: Media & Communications
Requisition Number: UNBKE006122
Job Type: Full-time (Internship)
Work Arrangement: On-site
Posting Date: 4 August 2025
Purpose of the Internship
The Communications Intern will be an integral part of the AgriFin Program team, contributing to the successful implementation and promotion of the 9th Annual Learning Event. Reporting directly to the Communications Lead, the intern will support the program’s innovation and engagement strategy through targeted digital content creation, event communication support, and brand messaging.
This position offers a rare opportunity for recent graduates and young professionals to gain hands-on experience in event communications, digital media, and social engagement within a globally respected humanitarian organization.
Key Responsibilities
The Communications Intern will be expected to perform the following duties with high levels of professionalism, creativity, and commitment:
- Assist with all communication-related tasks linked to the 9th Annual Learning Event (ALE), including logistical and strategic support before, during, and after the event.
- Draft compelling digital copy and captions for social media platforms to promote the ALE and highlight real-time engagement on LinkedIn, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.
- Capture short-form videos, infographics, and digital assets suitable for online dissemination and event marketing.
- Summarize key takeaways, impactful quotes, and discussion highlights from ALE sessions, and develop content for event summaries, social media updates, and on-screen displays.
- Support the Communications Lead in collecting and organizing speaker bios, session descriptions, moderator profiles, and ensuring their timely publication on the ALE website and related platforms.
- Collaborate in the implementation of the ALE social media plan, contributing to content curation, website updates, and ensuring consistency in tone and messaging.
- Actively monitor and respond to online interactions and inquiries across ALE social media channels, maintaining a timely, professional, and informed voice.
- Track and analyze social media performance and engagement metrics to provide insights into content effectiveness and campaign optimization.
- Provide in-person communications support throughout the event, including live coverage, content creation, and participant interviews.
- Uphold brand consistency and Mercy Corps’ communications standards across all ALE promotional and informational materials.
- Maintain a professional demeanor that reflects positively on Mercy Corps and supports its global mission and ethical standards.
Learning Objectives
Through this internship, the successful candidate will:
- Gain direct exposure to digital communications in a professional NGO environment, contributing to a major public-facing event.
- Develop strategic thinking and critical analysis skills through active involvement in brainstorming sessions and campaign ideation alongside senior team members.
- Enhance creative writing and multimedia content development skills tailored for a variety of audiences and platforms.
- Learn to manage communications workflows within a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment.
- Build a foundational understanding of how communication and media engagement support program delivery and organizational objectives in a development context.
Internship Supervision and Resources
The intern will receive:
- Direct mentorship and guidance from the Communications Lead throughout the duration of the internship.
- Access to a shared office workspace at the AgriFin office in Nairobi.
- Participation in learning and feedback sessions designed to foster growth and practical knowledge.
Costs and Coverage
Please note that this internship is unpaid. The intern will be responsible for covering the following:
- Daily living expenses
- Health insurance
- Transportation to and from the office
Despite this, the internship offers invaluable experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to work on a major global event with real-world impact.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Holds a Bachelor’s degree in communications or a related field.
- Previous internship or practical experience in a communications role is highly desirable.
- Proficient in digital design and video creation tools will be considered an added advantage.
- Demonstrates the ability to think critically and generate original ideas.
- A strong team player capable of collaborating effectively with both peers and senior colleagues.
- Comfortable working under pressure, meeting deadlines, and adapting to shifting priorities.
- Excellent writing, visual storytelling, and verbal communication skills.
- Shows enthusiasm for development work, innovation, and community impact.
Organizational Expectations
Mercy Corps sets high standards for staff and intern conduct. As a Communications Intern, you will be expected to:
- Represent the organization professionally during work and in public settings.
- Abide by local laws, cultural practices, and Mercy Corps’ internal policies and values at all times.
- Contribute to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace.
Team Culture and Continuous Learning
Mercy Corps believes that effective teams thrive on diversity, continuous improvement, and a shared vision of impact. The organization fosters a collaborative environment where learning is encouraged and where every team member is empowered to grow. Interns are encouraged to dedicate at least 5% of their time to personal and professional development during their engagement.
Commitment to Equity and Ethics
Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer. The organization actively promotes inclusion and does not tolerate discrimination of any form. Team members are expected to uphold ethical conduct, respect for others, and safeguard the dignity and safety of all individuals they engage with.
The agency has a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation, harassment, and abuse. As such, interns will be required to complete mandatory Code of Conduct training and comply with Mercy Corps’ safeguarding principles.
If you encounter or witness misconduct during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to report it to the Mercy Corps Integrity Hotline at [email protected].
Why Join Mercy Corps as a Communications Intern?
This is more than an internship; it is a doorway into the dynamic world of humanitarian communication, digital advocacy, and inclusive development. You will contribute to shaping conversations and amplifying messages that inform, inspire, and drive change.
As a Communications Intern at Mercy Corps’ AgriFin Program, you’ll be at the heart of an organization that values creativity, innovation, and human dignity. You will help deliver one of the region’s most important learning events for agricultural transformation—and gain professional experience that will elevate your career in media, development, or global communications.
If you are ready to take the next step in your career and are passionate about using your communication skills to support impactful work, then this opportunity is for you.
To apply, please submit your application as per the instructions provided by Mercy Corps. Applications should include a resume and cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience.
All applications must be submitted before the deadline stated on the Mercy Corps job portal or the respective communication channel.
For more details, visit the official Mercy Corps Careers page or contact the recruitment team at the Nairobi office.
