Internship – Project Officer

Contribute to the conversations and initiatives shaping Africa’s political, economic and diplomatic future. The Africa Political Outlook (APO) is seeking a motivated and talented Project Officer Intern to support the preparation and delivery of its 2027 Summit, taking place in Brussels on 18–19 March 2027, as well as its year-round programmes and initiatives. This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of African affairs, international relations, public policy and high-level institutional engagement, while contributing to a platform that connects African and European decision-makers. About the Africa Political OutlookThe Africa Political Outlook is a strategic platform dedicated to Africa’s political and diplomatic renaissance. It convenes high-level political leaders, policymakers, institutional representatives, business executives and experts to rethink governance models, strengthen institutions and amplify Africa’s voice in global decision-making. Through its annual Summit in Brussels and year-round initiatives, including the APO Leadership Prize and the APO Future Leaders Fellowship, APO serves as a platform for strategic dialogue, intellectual exchange and action-oriented partnerships. Learn more: www.africapoliticaloutlook.org The RoleThe Project Officer Intern will support the planning, coordination and delivery of APO’s activities, with a particular focus on the 2027 Summit and its associated programmes. The position combines project coordination, policy research, content development, institutional relations and event management. It offers direct exposure to the preparation of a high-level international summit and engagement with stakeholders across Africa and Europe.

Key Responsibilities
1. Project Management & Coordination
• Support the planning and implementation of the APO 2027 Summit, including workplans, timelines, deliverables and task tracking.
• Monitor progress across programme, partnerships, communications and logistics workstreams.
• Assist in coordinating APO’s year-round initiatives and activities. 2. Speakers & Institutional Relations
• Support engagement with ministers, ambassadors, senior officials, institutional representatives, experts and business leaders.
• Prepare invitations, speaker briefings, biographies and follow-up communications.
• Contribute to the coordination of institutional partners and strategic stakeholders. 3. Research & Programme Development
• Conduct research on African governance, geopolitics, economic transformation, regional integration and Africa-Europe relations.
• Contribute to concept notes, background papers, panel descriptions, briefing notes and programme materials.
• Support the development of substantive content for APO discussions and publications. 4. Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
• Maintain and update APO’s institutional and partner databases.
• Assist in preparing partnership proposals, presentations and correspondence.
• Support partner visibility, engagement and impact reporting. 5. Communications & Visibility
• Contribute to website updates, social media content and newsletters.
• Monitor relevant political, economic and diplomatic developments across Africa and Europe.
• Support the communication and visibility of APO events and publications. 6. Events & Operational Delivery
• Support venue coordination, registrations, participant management and event materials.
• Assist with logistical preparations and on-site coordination during the Summit.
• Contribute to post-event reporting, impact assessment and follow-up actions. Profile & QualificationsWe are looking for a candidate who combines intellectual curiosity, strong organizational abilities and a genuine interest in Africa’s political and economic transformations. Academic background
• Currently pursuing a Master’s degree or recently graduated in Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, Economics, Public Policy or a related discipline.
• Strong interest in African affairs, governance, diplomacy and EU-Africa relations. Knowledge & competencies
• Good understanding of African political, economic and diplomatic dynamics.
• Interest in multilateralism, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), institutional reform, economic transformation, digital innovation and international cooperation.
• Excellent research, writing, analytical and synthesis skills.
• Strong organizational and project coordination abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a dynamic, international environment. Languages & working tools
• Excellent command of English or French, both written and spoken.
• Working proficiency in the other language is a strong asset.
• Good command of Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.
• Experience with CRM systems, event management platforms, digital communications or design tools is an advantage. Personal attributes
• Proactive, rigorous, resourceful and detail-oriented.
• Comfortable interacting with senior institutional and private-sector stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment.
• A genuine commitment to APO’s vision of an Africa that actively shapes its political, economic and geopolitical future. Practical Information
• Position: Project Officer Intern
•

Location:
Brussels / APO coordination activities
• Duration: 4 to 6 months, covering the preparation and delivery period of the APO 2027 Summit.
• Supervision: The intern will report to the APO Project Manager and work closely with the Summit coordination and partnerships teams.
• Remuneration: An internship allowance in accordance with organizational policy and applicable local regulations, with potential transport support during key APO events.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
• A CV (maximum 2 pages).
• A cover letter (maximum 1 page) explaining their interest in APO, their relevant experience and how they could contribute to the organization.
• Their academic availability, including any university requirements or scheduling constraints. Applications should be sent to: join@africapoliticaloutlook.org Email subject: APO 2027 Internship – [Your Name] We welcome applications from candidates with a strong interest in African affairs, international cooperation and the institutions shaping the continent’s future. Join us in contributing to the ideas, partnerships and initiatives shaping Africa’s future. #AfricaPoliticalOutlook #APO2027 #Internship #AfricanAffairs