Are you a talented graphic designer looking to make a tangible impact on global sustainable development? The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is offering an exciting Graphic Design Internship (Job Opening ID: 261730), providing a unique opportunity to contribute your skills to the vital work of the Land, Housing and Shelter Section (LHSS). This six-month, in-person internship, based in the vibrant city of Nairobi, Kenya, is perfect for individuals eager to gain invaluable experience in an international setting.
About the Role and UN-Habitat:
UN-Habitat is the UN’s focal point for urbanization and human settlement matters. Its mandate is to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities, working towards the long-term goal of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11: “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.” The Land, Housing and Shelter Section, where the intern will be placed, is instrumental in developing norms, standards, and regulatory frameworks to ensure equitable land supply, efficient land management, secure tenure for all, and universal access to adequate housing.
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Under the direct supervision of an Associate Programme Management Officer within the LHSS, the Graphic Design Intern will be a key player in visually communicating the section’s impactful work. This is a full-time, unpaid internship, requiring five days per week of dedication. While the primary work location is in-person in Nairobi, there is a possibility for a short period of remote work, subject to discussion with the supervisor, to accommodate travel constraints.
Key Responsibilities of the Graphic Design Intern:
The intern’s duties will be diverse and impactful, including:
- Designing and formatting knowledge products: Visually preparing policy briefs, data analysis, reports, case studies, and human-interest stories to ensure clear and engaging presentation.
- Creating infographics and visual assets: Conceptualizing and producing visuals that effectively communicate complex data, research findings, and key messages in accessible formats.
- Developing communication materials: Designing flyers, cards, roll-ups, social media graphics, and short videos for advocacy and visibility.
- Sourcing images: Assisting in finding relevant images for internal and external communications.
- Supporting advocacy campaigns: Contributing to the visual aspects of land and housing-related advocacy initiatives.
- Enhancing knowledge platforms: Supporting the visual identity and graphic design standards for platforms like the Housing Knowledge Platform, Arab Land Initiative, and Global Land Tool Network websites.
- Event support: Assisting with the organization of events, workshops, webinars, and training sessions, providing both on-site and virtual support.
- Meeting documentation: Attending meetings and preparing summaries or reports as needed.
- General support: Performing other related tasks to contribute to the LHSS’s objectives.
Who UN-Habitat is Looking For:
To be considered for this I-1 level internship, applicants must meet one of the following academic requirements at the time of application:
- Be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher).
- Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent).
- Have already graduated with a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s, Ph.D., or equivalent.
Preferred areas of study include Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Visual Arts, Fine Arts, Digital Media, Architecture, or related fields. While prior professional work experience is not required for UN Internships, a field of study closely related to graphic design and communication is essential. Experience in graphic design and communication is desirable.
Candidates must be computer literate in standard software applications (Microsoft Office Suite) and demonstrate a keen interest in the work and ideals of the United Nations. The ability to successfully interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is also highly valued.
Language Requirements:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language is desirable.
Important Considerations:
It is crucial for applicants to understand that UN- Habitat internships are unpaid. Interns are responsible for their own costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Successful candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya may need to obtain appropriate visas and work/employment authorization, and these requirements should be discussed before accepting the internship offer.
This internship is an exceptional launchpad for aspiring graphic designers passionate about contributing their skills to global issues. The deadline for applications is August 13, 2025. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to apply your creativity to promote sustainable urban development, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
For full Job details and to apply, please visit the United Nations Careers portal