Host organization: National Fisheries Solidarity Movement (NAFSO)
NAFSO is a Sri Lankan fishermen’s movement that primarily works with marginalized groups such as internally displaced people, women and youth, to promote human rights and true sustainable development. NAFSO focuses on agriculture and fisheries sectors in post-conflict Sri Lanka. It represents fishermen from 15 coastal and inland fishing districts on the north and south coasts. NAFSO challenges harmful development models, particularly land and sea grabbing, and works to empower communities whose rights are threatened by these practices in developing countries, with the aim of contributing towards lasting peace in Sri Lanka based on equity, social justice, democracy and full respect for the rights of women and minorities. NAFSO also worked extensively with women in the war-affected coastal regions of the country.
Position title: Policy, Research & Advocacy Intern
Language: advanced level of English (both written and spoken) is required.
Mandate: The intern will assist NAFSO in three priority areas: building the capacity of NAFSO and its local offices to use information and communication technologies (ICT) more strategically and securely; supporting NAFSO’s education and campaign efforts to promote the rights of war-affected marginalized women in Sri Lanka; and supporting NAFSO’s policy and advocacy work to empower coastal communities and protect marine ecosystems.
The intern will have the opportunity to carry out the following activities, in addition to other related tasks depending on the needs of the partner organization:
- Developing and implementing education and outreach strategies on key issues including food sovereignty, land rights, coastal resource governance, and displacement in civil war-affected regions.
- Preparing internal documents to inform policy reform proposals and facilitate policy dialogue.
- Conducting research and analysis on critical issues affecting Sri Lanka’s coastal communities to support information, education, and advocacy campaigns.
- Participating in field visits and consultations with partners and allies.
- Writing reports and case studies on topics related to NAFSO’s mandate.
- Preparing progress reports for internationally funded initiatives.
- Developing a technology platform to map climate change risks in coastal zones.
In addition, the intern will:
- Participate in the progress review meeting with the NAFSO Director every month.
- Adhere to the administrative procedures of NAFSO.
- Follow the guidance and instructions of NAFSO director for any given situation.
- Work in cooperation with NAFSO staff and the collaborators all the time.
- Assist NAFSO team with their work when and where appropriate and needed.
REQUIRED SKILLS: The candidate must have a strong interest in international development and human rights, as well as in research, communications, and digital development.
Training before departure and upon return from the internship
Before departing, selected candidates must participate in a two-week (10 business days) pre-departure training program in Montreal, conducted in French by trainers who are recognized experts in their fields. The program will cover a variety of topics. A shorter online training program, conducted in English, may also be offered.
The IYIP also aims to help participants enter the job market upon their return. As part of this, the program includes workshops designed to improve interview skills and strengthen job search strategies.
In addition, participation in the IYIP covers:
- Airfare;
- Accommodation costs in the host country;
- Visa fees, if required;
- Required vaccinations*;
- Emergency medical insurance;
- Monthly living stipend;
- Personalized follow-up during your stay abroad.
Duration of the internship abroad: 3 months
However, IYIP is a comprehensive 4–5-month commitment that will take you through pre-departure training (2 weeks), an international internship (3 months), and post-return components including employability training and a mandatory public engagement activity.
To be eligible for the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP), the candidate must:
- Be 18-30 years old
- Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident
- Not have previously completed an IYIP Placement (see our FAQ)
The International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) is particularly aimed at youth facing barriers to employment: those who belong to or identify themselves as members of a group that faces discrimination, such as people living with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, racialized youth and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Please access the form below by clicking on apply.
- Only the candidate who send its CV and motivation letter (in PDF via the registration form) will be considered during the selection process.
Information: psij@alternatives.ca
