Empowering Next Generation Leaders: Advanced Skill-Building with H2OO Internships

For youth who have demonstrated a commitment to protecting our shared Blue Planet and one another, and who wish to further develop their skills, Heirs To Our Ocean offers internships that meet the needs of the intern and the organization.

“During my internship at Heirs to Our Ocean this summer, one of the most meaningful experiences I had was coordinating preparations for the 5th Cohort of the U.S. Youth Action Council for the UN Ocean Decade. I played a key role in organizing the interview process, drafting the US YAC UNOD handbook/manual, and onboarding new members, which allowed me to connect and manage a diverse group of youth. This project helped me hone my project management skills, and I experienced more growth in collaborating effectively across teams, including coordinating between H2OO staff and the youth leaders. I not only gained invaluable skills in communication and coordination but also developed a deeper understanding of how youth leaders can shape meaningful programs. This experience enhanced my confidence in my abilities and reaffirmed my passion for youth engagement. I look forward to continuing this work now as the Project Coordinator & Fundraising Associate of the US YAC UNOD.” – Armon Alex, 24, H2OO Intern & Global Youth Leader

“Supporting Catarina over the past year as an intern and a supporting adult has been an incredibly meaningful experience that provided me with valuable learning opportunities and unique insights. Together, we participated in various events, including the Human Rights Council Session, where we advocated for free pre-primary and secondary education for all children, and the Climate Resilience Summit at the Vatican, where we addressed the Pope, calling for a new encyclical on children and climate change. We also engaged in numerous consultations and projects to advance the protection of children’s rights and their effective implementation.

Representing H2OO as an intern with Child Rights Connect allowed me to experience decision-making first-hand and to strengthen my skills in communication, coordination, and empathetic leadership. This internship enabled me to adopt new perspectives and learn how to effectively engage in a network closely aligned with the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, while critically working to improve children’s meaningful participation in high-level forums to ensure their voices are heard and taken seriously.” ” – Raina Ivanova, 20, H2OO Intern & Global Youth Leader