Host organization: Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA)
The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) is a regional feminist organization based in Uganda, working to advance equality, peace, gender justice, and human rights across the Horn of Africa, with a focus on women and girls’ access to justice, prevention of violence against women and girls, social protection and economic justice, rights of women and girls on the move, and inclusive movement building.
Position Title: Research & Advocacy Intern
Language: advanced level of English (both written and spoken) is required.
Mandate: The Research and Advocacy Intern will support the Regional Research and Advocacy Officer in implementing SIHA’s regional research, advocacy, and policy influence agenda.
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:
- Assist with desk reviews, literature scans, and policy analysis on gender equality and women’s rights in the Horn of Africa and relevant regions
- Support preparation of policy briefs, background notes, and talking points for regional and international engagement
- Help collect and consolidate data and updates from SIHA’s country teams for regional advocacy strategies
- Draft, edit, and format reports, press statements, and advocacy materials; prepare presentation content
- Map advocacy partners, maintain expert databases, and provide logistical support for regional platforms
- Compile media contacts, track coverage, and organize documentation to support advocacy visibility
- Build skills in feminist research, advocacy writing, stakeholder coordination, and knowledge management
Required Skills: The candidate must demonstrate an interest in international solidarity and have training or initial experience in Gender Studies, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Law, International Relations, or a related field.
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
