join the IRF Roundtable team as an intern, or as we like to say, “ASSOCIATE."

Intern with us

At the IRF Secretariat, we recognize the significance of engaging the next generation in the global movement for religious freedom. Our internship programs are meticulously crafted to align with academic pursuits while offering invaluable hands-on experience. We aim to challenge students to cultivate their critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills in a real-world setting.

Throughout the year, we provide a range of internship opportunities catering to undergraduate, Master's, and PhD students, as well as recent graduates. Our goal is to ensure interns gain firsthand insights into NGO operations, collaborate with Roundtable members, contribute to working groups, analyze multi-faith Letters, and conduct legislative research on religious freedom issues.

Interns, whom we refer to as associates, play a pivotal role in advancing the IRF Roundtable's mission of advocating for religious freedom worldwide, irrespective of faith or belief. They actively contribute to fostering understanding and cooperation among diverse religious communities.

Intern Insights

Blog

What are IRF Associates learning? Hear from them!

Class of Summer '25

Creative

Innovative

Driven

Creative • Innovative • Driven •

AVA GROSS

The College of William & Mary, Religious Studies and Anthropology

Ava Gross, a rising senior at William & Mary, majoring in Religious Studies and minoring in Anthropology, is passionate about the preservation and expansion of American Indian sovereignty within the United States. Empowered by her time at the Institute for American Indian Studies in the summer of 2024, Ava is focused on the historical connection between cultural reclamation efforts and the discrete tribal relationship with the federal government as it impacts present-day Indigenous sovereignty. After spearheading the revival of the Anthropology Club at W&M, Ava served as president and will now be an advisor on the Board of Directors where she works closely with the Anthropology Department’s Undergraduate Committee

CHRISTINA GUTIERREZ

The Catholic University of America, World Politics, Philosophy and Global Studies

Christina is a dedicated student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in World Politics at The Catholic University of America, with minors in Philosophy and Global Studies, along with a Certificate in Intelligence Studies. She has built a strong global perspective through her diplomatic work as a representative of the Holy See Mission to the Organization of American States, where she engaged directly with international human rights issues and the dynamics of multilateral diplomacy across the Americas. Drawing on strong language proficiency and cross-cultural communication skills, she is passionate about international affairs and committed to making an impact in globally connected environments.

MOHAMMAD FURQAN (“FURQAN”)

University of Notre Dame, Global Affairs in International Peace Studies, Kroc Institute Fellowship

Mohammad Furqan (India) is a current student of the Master of Global Affairs in International Peace Studies and a recipient of a Kroc Institute Fellowship at the University of Notre Dame. He received a B.A. in English literature and an M.A. in Islamic studies from Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi. Before coming to Notre Dame, he was part of Contending Modernities' Madrasa Discourses (advancing scientific and theological literacy) project in India, first as a participant and later as an administrative faculty assistant. Most recently, Furqan served as a Young Leaders Fellow in the Indian state of Bihar, where he worked on a grassroots socio-political developmental project. His research interests include religion and peace, interfaith dialogue, pluralism, and freedom of religion.

LEANNA BAKER

Washington & Lee University, Religion and Politics, Poverty and Human Capability Studies

LeAnna Baker is a Religion and Politics double major with a minor in Poverty and Human Capability Studies at Washington and Lee University. She is passionate about the philosophy of religion, theology, and the intersection of religion and politics in both global and local contexts. LeAnna has studied migration and religious pluralism in Tunisia and Italy, completed community outreach work for an NGO in Cape Town, South Africa, and recently interned with the U.S. Department of State’s Strategic Religious Engagement Unit. A committed leader and community builder, she serves as a Resident Advisor and works to foster inclusive, supportive spaces on campus. She is also engaged in service initiatives that address food insecurity, sustainability, and equitable resource access in rural Virginia.

NED GABBAY

Boston College, International Studies and Spanish

Ned is an undergraduate at Boston College studying international studies with a concentration in cooperation and conflict and a minor in Spanish. Passionate about engaging with others on pressing issues, he has led efforts to promote cultural exchange and awareness among students internationally through the Global Conversations program at his university, as well as tutoring and other leadership roles. He is very eager to continue expanding his global perspective during the upcoming semester when he will be studying abroad in the Netherlands. Post-graduation, he plans to pursue a career in either the legal or diplomatic spheres of foreign policy.

TALA ALNASSER

Brigham Young University (BYU), Public Relations and French, Sociology

Tala Alnasser is a Muslim student at Brigham Young University studying Public Relations and French with a minor in Sociology. Having moved more than six times and served as the first Muslim Jordanian-Palestinian Executive Student Body VP at BYU, her experience has placed religion at the forefront of her mind allowing her to see the power of multi-faith work in bridge-building and advancing social causes. Tala wishes to continue being a public servant, researching the intersection of law and religion and using her background in mediation, foreign languages, and cultural competencies as an active medium for brokering social trust amongst various religious groups, governments, and other members of the community. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and playing chess.

PAST Associates

Internship Schedule

  • Fall

    Late August - Mid December

    Application Deadline: August 10

  • Spring

    Early January - Late May

    Application Deadline: December 10

  • Summer

    Early June - Late August

    Application Deadline: April 10

Internship

Opportunities

Areas of work

Not seeing exactly what you were looking for? Let’s chat and try to customize your role to what best suits your goals.

  • As a Communications Intern at the IRF Roundtable, you will play a crucial role in shaping and amplifying our messaging to diverse stakeholders. This internship offers a dynamic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in crafting compelling narratives, engaging content creation, and strategic communication strategies within the infrastructure sector.

    Key Responsibilities:

    1. Content Creation: Develop engaging content for various platforms, including website, social media, newsletters, and press releases. This may include articles, blog posts, infographics, and multimedia content.

    2. Social Media Management: Assist in managing IRF Roundtable's social media presence by creating and scheduling posts, monitoring engagement, and identifying opportunities for growth.

    3. Media Relations: Support the communications team in building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, drafting press materials, and coordinating interview opportunities.

    4. Research and Analysis: Research industry trends, policy developments, and best practices to inform communication strategies and messaging.

    5. Event Support: Assist in planning and executing virtual and in-person events.

    6. Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams within IRF Roundtable to ensure messaging alignment and support organizational objectives.

    Qualifications:

    1. Currently enrolled in a degree program in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.

    2. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an eye for detail and creativity.

    3. Familiarity with social media platforms and digital marketing tools.

    4. Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

    5. Proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and contribute to team goals.

    Benefits:

    1. Mentorship and professional development opportunities.

    2. Exposure to a diverse network of industry professionals and thought leaders.

    3. Hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization at the forefront of peace-building and advocacy.

    4. Flexible schedule and remote work options available.

    Note: This description is crafted to attract candidates who are passionate about communication and eager to contribute to the mission of the IRF Roundtable. Adjustments can be made based on specific organizational needs and preferences.

  • As an Operations Intern at the IRF Roundtable, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in supporting the IRF Roundtable’s day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. This internship offers a dynamic environment where you can contribute to various aspects of organizational efficiency, project management, and logistical support.

    Key Responsibilities:

    1. Administrative Support: Assist in general administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining organizational files and databases.

    2. Project Coordination: Support project managers in organizing and coordinating project activities, including tracking timelines, monitoring progress, and preparing project documentation.

    3. Data Management: Help in collecting, organizing, and analyzing data to support decision-making processes and evaluate program effectiveness.

    4. Event Logistics: Assist in planning and executing virtual and in-person events, including logistics coordination, participant registration, and on-site support.

    5. Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance organizational effectiveness through process optimization and implementation of best practices.

    Qualifications:

    1. Currently enrolled in a degree program in Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field.

    2. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.

    3. Detail-oriented approach with a focus on accuracy and quality.

    4. Proficiency in Google applications (Docs, Sheets, Forms) and familiarity with project management tools is a plus.

    5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

    Benefits:

    1. Mentorship and professional development opportunities to enhance skills in operations management and project coordination.

    2. Exposure to a diverse range of projects and initiatives within the infrastructure sector.

    3. Hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization at the forefront of infrastructure innovation.

    4. Flexible schedule and remote work options available.

    Note: This description is tailored to attract candidates with a strong interest in operations management and organizational efficiency. Adjustments can be made based on specific organizational needs and preferences.

  • Role Overview:

    As a Policy & Advocacy Intern at IRF Roundtable, you will play a vital role in analyzing government policies, regulations, and legislative initiatives related to international religious freedom and human rights. This internship offers a dynamic environment where you can gain hands-on experience in policy research, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement within the sector.

    Key Responsibilities:

    1. Policy Research and Analysis: Conduct in-depth research on government policies, legislative proposals, and regulatory frameworks affecting infrastructure development and renewal. Analyze the potential impact of policy changes on funding mechanisms, project financing models, and sustainability initiatives.

    2. Policy Briefs and Reports: Prepare concise and informative policy briefs, memos, and reports summarizing key findings, recommendations, and implications for IRF Roundtable stakeholders. Communicate complex policy information in a clear and accessible manner for diverse audiences, including policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public.

    3. Multi-Sector Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams and working group partners to gather input, solicit feedback, and build consensus around policy priorities and advocacy strategies. Participate in meetings, hearings, and working groups to represent IRF Roundtable's perspective on multi-faith action.

    4. Legislative Tracking: Monitor legislative developments, committee hearings, and regulatory updates at the federal and international levels.

    5. Data Analysis and Visualization: Use data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, statistical software) to analyze policy data and trends effectively. Create compelling visualizations, charts, and infographics to communicate key policy insights and findings to internal and external stakeholders.

    Qualifications:

    1. Currently enrolled in a degree program in Public Policy, Political Science, Government Affairs, or related field.

    2. Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to analyze government policies and regulations effectively.

    3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in preparing policy briefs, reports, or similar documents for government audiences.

    4. Familiarity with legislative processes, regulatory frameworks, and government decision-making processes.

    5. Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques, as well as data visualization software, is desirable.

    6. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

    Benefits:

    1. Mentorship and professional development opportunities to enhance skills in government policy analysis, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.

    2. Exposure to a diverse range of policy issues and stakeholders within the sector.

    3. Hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization at the forefront of the international religious freedom movement.

    4. Flexible schedule and remote work options available.

    Note: This description is tailored to attract candidates with a strong background in government policy analysis and a keen interest in religious freedom policy issues. Adjustments can be made based on specific organizational needs and preferences.

Let’s work together

Please note that this internship opportunity is unpaid. While we do not provide financial compensation, we offer invaluable hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. We believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth.

Meet the Internship Coordinator

“Investing in the growth of your early professional career is like planting seeds in fertile soil. The foundation you build today blossoms into the trees of tomorrow.”

— Kaylee Fisher, Global Operations Director

Favorite Books: Leadershift by John Maxwell & Atomic Habits by James Clear

Words to Live by: “To whom much is given, much is required.”

Fun Fact: Traveled to 18 countries