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Ever wanted to travel the world, explore new places, and grow your understanding for global indigenous culture and forestry? Well, then this is your chance.

The BC First Nations Forestry Council, in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, Stratosphere International, and Global Affairs Canada are now accepting applications for the 2020 International Aboriginal Youth Internship.

This is a 3 month work placement in Uganda, Africa from May to August 2020 with all expenses paid.

Who can apply?

  • Aboriginal Canadian Youth, ages 19-35
  • Must have completed High School or equivalent
  • Must have or be able to acquire a passport (prior to departure)

What would you be doing over there?

The International Aboriginal Youth Internship (IAYI) provides an opportunity for Indigenous Youth to work on diverse projects in environmental and community sustainability and Indigenous forest conservation that could be applied in your community.

All costs are covered for selected applicants.

  • Community development activities
  • Participate in sustainable programs in local schools and community-based organizations
  • Share Indigenous cultural knowledge
  • Gain valuable and employable skills
  • Increase understanding & knowledge of international relations
  • Work collaboratively with local community partners

Roots & Shoots

Source: Jane Goodall Canada

Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots began in 1991 when Dr. Jane met with 12 Tanzanian high school students who wanted to tackle urgent problems in their community. Since that meeting, Roots & Shoots groups have multiplied many times over and can now be found in 50 countries around the world. Wherever there’s a group, young people are making changes that benefit people, animals and the environment.

Through Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots program, youth become part of the next generation of community leaders,  as they explore their communities, identify environmental problems and take action.

Through experiential learning that promotes leadership skills, team building and critical thinking, Roots & Shoots equips young people to become agents of community change.

Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots is a four-step experiential program that gives students a comprehensive understanding of sustainability, increased confidence, problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and opportunities to collaborate with others to achieve a common goal.

Interested? Here is how to apply:

  1. Fill out this form with your information
     
  2. Fill out this second intake form with your information
     
  3. Submit application to workforce@forestrycouncil.ca before Dec 31, 2019

    Make sure to submit your cover letter & resume along with your application form. Please note that your cover letter must answer the following questions:
     
    1. What does Nation mean to you?
    2. In your own words, describe or define international relations.
    3. What do you see as the biggest challenge being away from home for 3 months in another country and another culture?

If you have any questions, you can call us at +1 (778) 953-3408 or send an email to workforce@forestrycouncil.ca.

Additional Resources

Download a fillable application form

  1. Fill out this form with your information
     
  2. Fill out this second intake form with your information
     
  3. Submit application to workforce@forestrycouncil.ca before Dec 31, 2019

    Make sure to submit your cover letter & resume along with your application form. Please note that your cover letter must answer the following questions:
     
    1. What does Nation mean to you?
    2. In your own words, describe or define international relations.
    3. What do you see as the biggest challenge being away from home for 3 months in another country and another culture?

Frequently Asked Questions

International Aboriginal Youth Internship FAQs

 

  1. Do you have to stay in Uganda the whole time, or can I come home early?

Due to the complications and expenses with last minute flight bookings the interns are required to stay in Uganda the entire 3 month Internship except in the case of an emergency.

  1. Is there WIFI?

There is WIFI in some places, however it is not guaranteed and often very slow.

  1. Do I need Vaccines?

Yes, you will require some Vaccinations as recommended by your doctor for International travel as well as Malaria pills for the duration of your stay.

  1. Is it hot in Uganda?

Yes, very.

  1. Do they speak English there?

Yes, most people in Uganda speak English.

  1. What should I pack?

A pre-departure list of recommended items will be sent to you ahead of time.

  1. How much do I get paid?

The cost of the trip, flight, accommodations, meals, etc. are completely covered as well the Interns receive a small stipend for expenses.

  1. Will I be safe?

All interns are housed with other interns at the home stay locations and are never placed alone. Interns have supervisors and mentors available to them at all times. Pre-determined Rules need to be followed that will ensure your safety.Not following the rules could put you at risk.

  1. Can I drink Alcohol or do drugs?

The Internship is a “dry” internship. Alcohol and/or Drug use will not be tolerated.

  1.  What kind of work will I be doing?

Interns will be working in community on sustainability and with students in schools to share cultural experiences. Assisting with tree planting and conservation field work.

Interested? Here is how to apply:

  1. Fill out this form with your information
     
  2. Fill out this second intake form with your information
     
  3. Submit application to workforce@forestrycouncil.ca before Dec 31, 2019

    Make sure to submit your cover letter & resume along with your application form. Please note that your cover letter must answer the following questions:
     
    1. What does Nation mean to you?
    2. In your own words, describe or define international relations.
    3. What do you see as the biggest challenge being away from home for 3 months in another country and another culture?

Program Partners