As an IYIP intern, you’ll have the chance to:

• Gain valuable globally relevant skills and experience personal growth through transformative opportunities.
• Gain clarity on your future career direction and discover the steps you need to take to reach your goals.
• Collaborate with local communities to support sustainable development initiatives that align with our mission.
• Build strong mentoring relationships and contribute to impactful work through evidence-based research with partner organizations.
• Access professional networks, form lasting connections, and become part of a supportive community.

The program involves internships in Ghana and Liberia, with interns being selected from various locations across Canada.

This internship is designed to be accessible to all equity-deserving youth. You don’t need to be enrolled in (or have completed) a university or academic program, nor do you need previous work experience. The main qualifications are strong communication skills in English and the ability to complete tasks assigned under a research plan, with guidance from professionals.

This opportunity is perfect for individuals who:

• Are passionate about community development and research.
• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Can follow detailed instructions and adhere to protocols.
• Are comfortable with basic data collection tools and technology.
• Work well both independently and in a team.
• Are eager to develop leadership skills through hands-on learning, reflection, and data-driven insights.

Applications can be submitted for a cohort through the official application link, which will be available on the Empowerment Squared and McMaster University IYIP websites. Follow us on social media @empowermentsqd to stay up to date on important news and updates. 

You don’t need to submit any documents when you apply. However, if you’re shortlisted, we’ll contact you to provide documentation confirming your eligibility for the program and your ability to travel.

The application deadline for each cohort will be communicated on the Empowerment Squared and McMaster University IYIP websites, and through official communication channels. Be sure to check these regularly for updates and follow us on social media @empowermentsqd.

You will receive an automatic confirmation once your application has been successfully submitted and email communication from the program team on next steps throughout the process.

Applicants will be notified about the status of their application within four weeks after applications have closed.

The application process involves the following:

• Submitting a complete application using the official application link.
• Submitting the required documents to the program team if shortlisted for the next cohort.
• Participating in an interview.
• Final decisions will be communicated approximately six weeks after the applications have closed.

If you are unable to join the cohort for this round of applications, there will be an additional cohort scheduled to begin at a later time. Please indicate your availability when applying. Additional departure dates for 2026 will be communicated to all current and future applicants.

The fifth cohort will deploy in January 2027, additional cohorts will be announced for 2027 with specific dates to be provided closer to the time.

Each cohort will include between 12 and 20 interns, with placements divided between Liberia and Ghana. Although the specific numbers in each cohort will vary, your group size will never be smaller than 6.

The International Internship Program Training is structured into three distinct components, followed by a post-internship reflection:

• Global Citizenship Training – Interns will gain critical transferable skills to thrive in a global intercultural context and change attitudes and awareness of equitable ways of thinking, living and working. This training will be delivered through online training modules.

• Pre-departure Training – Interns will complete a 3 day in-person pre-departure training in Hamilton, Ontario. Costs related to travel for in-person training will be covered by the IYIP program.

• In-Country Acclimatization Training – On-site acclimatization training within each host country, which aims to educate interns about the host countries and how to react to certain situations and risks. Interns will also receive ongoing support during the internship.

Interns will be supervised by appointed researchers and supported by local coordinators in Ghana and Liberia. Additionally, mentors from McMaster University and Empowerment Squared will provide guidance.

Interns will work both individually and as part of a team, depending on the specific tasks and projects they are assigned.

The project focus in Ghana involves a focus on gender equity and aims to create better educational outcomes, environments, and facilities in rural areas. In Liberia, the program focus is on the needs and approaches to overcoming mental health challenges and substance abuse within local communities.

Your schedule will change depending on the project phase, but you can expect a mix of fieldwork, team meetings, training sessions, and data analysis. The program usually involves around 40 hours per week, but these won’t always be typical office hours. Additionally, community engagement and cultural activities may happen outside the usual 9-to-5.

Research findings will be reviewed by the project lead and host organizations before any publication or sharing. Any stakeholders who wish to publish components of their work must follow the program’s guidelines and obtain the necessary approvals.

Interns will be housed with host families provided by the program partners in Liberia. In Ghana, interns will share accommodation in a home owned by our local partners and supported by a caretaker resident on-site.

Travel expenses, including airfare and local transportation, will be covered by the program.

The program will assist with visa processing, travel arrangements, and provide a comprehensive orientation upon arrival.

Yes, the program provides emergency support and healthcare coverage, including health insurance and access to local healthcare facilities.

Yes, you will receive detailed information about your host family before departure, including their contact details and background.

Transportation options include program-provided vehicles, but will mainly rely on public transportation common to the host country contexts. Specific arrangements will depend on the research site and activities.

Yes, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa for your host country. The program will assist with this process.

English is widely spoken in both Ghana and Liberia. Additionally, support, which may include translation, will be provided by local program staff and community supporters as needed.

It is recommended that interns bring essential medications, such as an EpiPen, with them. While some medications are available locally, availability may vary. Applicants are encouraged to name their needs for any chronic medications at the start of the process to allow the program team to conduct enquiries to ensure their availability or any challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that you have access to the medications you need.

You will need to meet the vaccination and health requirements specified by the host countries. This typically includes vaccinations for yellow fever and other travel-related vaccines required or recommended for the destination countries. You will be supported in obtaining the necessary vaccinations.

Internet access will be provided at the accommodations and work sites, though connectivity may vary depending on the location. While internet access is generally available, it may be less reliable in some areas and the reliability of electricity supply also varies in some locations. The program will provide alternatives to ensure consistent communication.

Yes, interns will receive certificates of completion and letters of recommendation from the program partners.

This internship opportunity will equip you with real-world experience in international development work – from practical support to local organizations to exposure to research-related tasks in education and health. You’ll gain in-demand skills like cross-cultural communication, project management, and problem-solving, while building a global professional network. The program enhances your resume, leadership abilities, and career prospects through hands-on projects, mentorship, and career development support. Whether you’re aiming for graduate studies, NGOs, government, or global organizations, this experience sets you apart and prepares you to make a meaningful impact.

This internship opportunity will equip you with real-world experience in international development work – from practical support to local organizations to exposure to research-related tasks in education and health. You’ll gain in-demand skills like cross-cultural communication, project management, and problem-solving, while building a global professional network. The program enhances your resume, leadership abilities, and career prospects through hands-on projects, mentorship, and career development support. Whether you’re aiming for graduate studies, NGOs, government, or global organizations, this experience sets you apart and prepares you to make a meaningful impact.

Program news and updates will be communicated via email, the official program website, and through regular newsletters.