FOCAL 2010 Internships

There is currently one internship available at FOCAL for the Fall-Winter session:

1. Communications Intern

The Canadian Foundation for the Americas (FOCAL) is Canada’s leading think-tank on our country’s relations in Latin America and the Caribbean. FOCAL, featured extensively in the media, undertakes research and high-level policy dialogue on issues of critical importance to Canada’s foreign policy, commercial and development assistance engagement in the hemisphere. Our mandate is to produce information and analysis, convene forums and facilitate dialogue that directly shape and influence policy.

The Communications team is responsible for FOCAL publications including our flagship monthly newsletter, FOCALPoint: Canada’s Spotlight on the Americas, that reaches over 5,000 readers in Canada and the Americas. We also produce policy papers, policy briefs and other research products. We are involved in all steps of the process, from editing to layout, printing to dissemination. The team also manages the FOCAL website and social networking tools. Further, we implement communications strategies for programmatic activities, including public and media outreach and other communications activities.

Duties:

Under the supervision of the Director of Communications, the intern could:

- Assist in the production of our monthly newsletter, FOCALPoint, and other publications. This can include researching and drafting news briefs, copy editing articles, preparing a draft layout and preparing the electronic version of the publication.
- Work to expand the readership for FOCALPoint as well as for other publications such as policy papers. This will involve finding new ways to reach the audiences of like-minded organizations and university students.
- Maintain the FOCAL website and promote it; track website activity and prepare a monthly report.
- Prepare communication strategies for various FOCAL programs.
- Manage social networking FOCAL pages (Facebook and Twitter) and find ways to build our networks. Monitor FOCAL pages regularly and moderate discussions if necessary.
- Monitor the Canadian media (English and French) and identify reporters interested in Latin America and the Caribbean. Strategize on how best to make them aware of our work.

Qualifications:

- Student in Communications, Journalism or a related degree;
- Excellent written communications skills in English; good comprehension of French;
- Proficiency with InDesign an asset;
- Knowledge of social networking tools;
- Knowledge of Canadian media;
- Ability to work independently, with limited supervision;
- Interest in Latin America and the Caribbean an asset;
- Spanish is an asset.

This is a voluntary, non-remunerated position. The intern could work 2-3 days per week for 3-4 months, beginning in September. To apply, submit your resume along with a cover letter stating what you can bring to FOCAL. Send your application to Ruth Mestechkin at rmestechkin@focal.ca by August 23, 2010 and write “Internship” in the subject line. We thank all applicants; however, only the candidates short listed for an interview will be contacted. FOCAL is an equal opportunity employer.