Communications Intern, Canada EleV Programs

ABOUT MASTERCARD FOUNDATION 

Mastercard Foundation seeks a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. Through its Young Africa Works strategy and the EleV Program, the Foundation works with partners to ensure that millions of young people, especially young women, access quality education, financial services, and dignified work. Mastercard Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is independent with its own Board of Directors and CEO.

UNDERSTANDING CANADA PROGRAMS AT THE FOUNDATION

The Foundation has begun working within Canada in partnership with Indigenous communities and post-secondary institutions to listen, learn, and best understand how we can act in meaningful ways. The EleV strategy was co-created with Indigenous communities, young people, and partners to enable 100,000 Indigenous youth to complete their education and transition to dignified work aligned with their values and aspirations.

As reflected in Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, education is a key driver of improved socio-economic well-being. Through building partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations, we look to expand our initiative, ultimately helping to support a generation of young Indigenous leaders who will be change agents within their communities. We believe that by setting a bold target, we will encourage engagement across sectors and create momentum that will elevate the strengths and opportunities of Indigenous youth. In keeping with our approach, Indigenous communities and young people will be the drivers of this transformation. The program will promote innovations to address longer-term systemic change to achieve economic prosperity and social well-being within Indigenous communities.

Consistent with our overall vision, we will share learnings and opportunities to connect across the work of the Foundation. While operating in distinct contexts, the centrality of youth voice and vision, affirmation of culture and identity, and priority to enhance community capacity for self-determination are common threads upon which our work is strengthened and reinforced.

THE OPPORTUNITY 

Reporting to the Lead, the Communications Intern will support the Canada Programs Communications and Public Affairs team with writing, content creation, development of communications products, and project management. Your role includes creating clear and engaging content for the EleV Program’s communications channels, supporting the creation of videos, podcasts, website content and newsletters, and assisting with communications support for program partners. This is a one-year paid internship. 

The preferred candidate can be based in Toronto or Ottawa, ON.

 WAYS YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE 

• Support the communications team with writing and editing copy for social media, website, press releases, newsletters, etc.
• Assist with developing and managing communications projects such as podcasts, murals, and videos.
• Assist with communications support for partners, including content creation, media relations, event support and more.
• Provide any necessary support to enhance team collaboration and efficiency.
• Take on additional tasks or projects to support the EleV communications team as needed and based on interest and capability.

 WHO YOU ARE

• Completed (or completing in Winter 2025) a diploma or bachelor’s degree (or higher) in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Lived experience as an Indigenous person in Canada.
• 0-4 years’ work experience after degree/ diploma.
• Experience creating content for social media, newsletters, websites, and other channels.
• Experience organizing and managing multiple projects and tasks.
• Strong writing and editing skills.
• Familiarity with and understanding social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.
• Basic understanding of other communications platforms (social media scheduling, newsletter management, media monitoring and outreach).
• Basic skills in creating presentations using tools like Microsoft PowerPoint (advanced skills an asset).
• Ability to solve minor technical issues, such as connection problems during virtual meetings or minor software troubleshooting. 
• Ability to quickly adjust to new situations and challenges, especially in a dynamic work environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Willingness to take on tasks without being directed and eager to learn and contribute.
• Capacity to approach challenges with a solution-focused mindset, thinking critically to navigate obstacles.
• Openness to receive constructive feedback and use it for growth and improvement.
• Demonstrating the Foundation’s values in actions and decisions and handling sensitive information with discretion.

Deadline for Applications is January 31, 2025.

Mastercard Foundation (the “Foundation”) values and respects your privacy. By submitting an application for this opportunity, you hereby agree to the Foundation’s collection, use and disclosure of your personal information in accordance with its Privacy Policy (available at https://mastercardfdn.org/privacy/). Please note that the Foundation may share your personal information with third-party agencies that support the Foundation’s recruitment activities, and such third-party agencies may contact you directly regarding this opportunity. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Foundation’s Privacy Officer at the address indicated in its Privacy Policy.

The Mastercard Foundation values the unique skills and experiences each individual brings to the organization and we are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.

Completion of satisfactory business references and background checks are essential conditions of employment.

For more information and to sign up for the Foundation’s newsletter, please visit http://www.mastercardfdn.org/
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