Application Guide
How to Apply for Communication Intern
at United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
🏢 About United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
UNFPA is the United Nations agency uniquely focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, youth empowerment, and ending gender-based violence. Working here means contributing directly to global efforts to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person can fulfill their potential, making it ideal for mission-driven communicators.
About This Role
This Communication Intern role involves creating multimedia content (videos, infographics, social posts) to amplify UNFPA's work on reproductive health and gender equality. You'll help translate complex global issues into engaging stories that drive awareness and action, directly supporting advocacy for vulnerable populations worldwide.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with checking social media analytics and scheduling posts for UNFPA campaigns, followed by researching data for an infographic on youth empowerment. You could join a virtual brainstorming session on a new video series about maternal health, then edit photos or graphics for upcoming web stories, all while collaborating with a global team remotely.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Is Looking For
- Has basic skills in content creation tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or video editing software) for producing social media graphics or short videos
- Demonstrates interest in global health, gender equality, or youth development through coursework, volunteering, or personal projects
- Shows cultural sensitivity and ability to communicate about sensitive topics (e.g., reproductive health) respectfully and accurately
- Is proactive in researching UNFPA's current campaigns (like ending child marriage or maternal health initiatives) to inform content ideas
📝 Tips for Applying to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
Include a portfolio link or attachment with 2-3 samples of visual content (e.g., an infographic, social media graphic, or short video) even if from class projects
Mention specific UNFPA campaigns or reports you admire (e.g., State of World Population report) to show genuine interest
Highlight any experience with scheduling tools (e.g., Hootsuite) or basic analytics, as social media management is part of the role
If you lack formal experience, describe a time you researched a complex topic and summarized it visually or in writing
Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description like 'multimedia editing,' 'content creation,' and 'social media management'
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Explain why UNFPA's mission on reproductive health or youth development resonates with you personally or academically", 'Describe a relevant project where you created content (e.g., a school presentation on a social issue) and the impact it had', "Mention how your skills in design, research, or social media align with supporting UNFPA's communication channels", 'Express enthusiasm for contributing to a remote, global team and adapting content for diverse audiences']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore UNFPA's recent social media campaigns (e.g., on Instagram @unfpa) to understand their tone and visual style
- → Read the latest State of World Population report to grasp current priorities like demographic shifts or gender equality data
- → Review UNFPA's key focus areas (e.g., ending preventable maternal deaths, empowering youth) on their official website
- → Look into UNFPA's work in specific regions to appreciate the global scope and cultural contexts of their communications
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without mentioning UNFPA's mission or specific programs
- Overlooking the need for visual content examples, as the role heavily involves multimedia creation
- Failing to address how you'd handle sensitive topics (e.g., reproductive health) with professionalism and empathy
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)!