Partnership and External Affairs Internship

TEAM: External Affairs & Policy

LOCATION: Rotterdam, the Netherlands or Nairobi, Kenya

LOCATION: 6 months (with possibility of extension)

LEVEL OF EFFORT: Full time – 40 hours per week

START DATE: As soon as possible

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, 02 June 2025

SALARY INDICATION: Netherlands: EUR 500 per month | Kenya: EUR 375 per month

WHO WE ARE

The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) is an international organization working to accelerate action on adapting to climate change. We support adaptation solutions at the international and the local levels, partnering with the public and the private sector.

Our focus is firmly on those who are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change; communities least prepared to withstand the health, social, and economic impacts of the climate emergency are our priority.

Founded in 2018, our organization operates with a unique dual-headquarters model. Our Global North headquarters is based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, housed in the world’s largest floating office — a landmark of sustainable innovation. Our Global South headquarters is located in Nairobi, Kenya. In addition, we maintain a growing global presence with regional offices in Côte d’Ivoire, Bangladesh, and Beijing, as well as a dedicated knowledge and research hub in Groningen, the Netherlands.

Our work encompasses high-level policy development, research, agenda-setting and advocacy to drive faster and deeper climate adaptation. We collaborate closely with partners to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of results where they are most needed.

WHAT WILL YOU DO

Are you passionate about climate change adaptation and looking to deepen your understanding of political and strategic engagement in Africa? This internship offers a unique opportunity to be at the heart of high-level climate diplomacy and partnership building through the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) and its second phase, AAAP 2.0. Reporting directly to the Senior Partnerships Manager for Africa, you will gain firsthand experience in shaping and delivering impactful engagement strategies in collaboration with leading institutions such as the African Development Bank, African Union, UNECA, NEPAD, and other key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities and Learning Outcomes

• Understand political and strategic climate dynamics by supporting the preparation and implementation of high-level political events and meetings, and contributing to engagement strategies with strategic partners.
• Strengthen research, analytical, and contextual awareness through preparing background briefs, monitoring regional climate and adaptation developments, and summarizing outcomes from key continental and global climate meetings.
• Develop communication and stakeholder engagement skills by attending preparatory meetings with senior leaders, producing concise meeting notes, and supporting outreach to influential partners.
• Enhance digital communication and storytelling abilities by creating post-event content such as blog posts, website updates, and social media materials that reflect key outcomes and promote the AAAP’s impact.
• Build your project coordination experience through active involvement in organizing strategic events and supporting partnership-building efforts across Africa and beyond.

Requirements

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree (or currently enrolled) in International Relations, Economics, International Business, Political Science, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
• Strong interest and demonstrated motivation in climate change adaptation, sustainable development, and international cooperation, particularly in the African context.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver high-quality outputs within tight deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and French
• Ability to interact confidently and diplomatically with senior officials, partners, and diverse stakeholders.