ICA internship program shapes the next generation of cooperative leaders

From left: ICA Policy Director Joseph Njuguna, policy intern Lucas Bangsgaard, legislation intern Daisy Chissaque and ICA Legislation Director Santosh Kumar.

In an increasingly globalized world, the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) serves as a lighthouse of cooperative ideas and practices, supporting sustainable development and social justice. At the start of the year, three interns joined the ICA, each embarking on a transformational journey that broadened their understanding of the cooperative movement and greatly contributed to their professional development.

The ICA took on three interns to provide the organization with new insights and invest in the future generation of cooperative leaders. The interns, who come from many academic disciplines and geographic locations, were chosen for their commitment to cooperative ideals and ability to contribute significantly to the ICA's purpose.

The internship program aims to provide an intensive learning experience by integrating academic knowledge with practical experience. Each intern was able to participate in various projects that covered the ICA's wide range of operations. One of these included coming up with new ideas to engage young people.

Legislation intern Daisy Chissaque highlighted her diverse learning opportunities. "My experience working within the ICA's global legislation department has provided me with a unique and enriching insight into the functionality of cooperative laws across diverse cultural and economic landscapes. It's been truly captivating to observe the nuanced adaptation and application of cooperative principles within a myriad of legal frameworks worldwide."

"It's been truly captivating to observe the nuanced adaptation and application of cooperative principles within a myriad of legal frameworks worldwide." - legislation intern Daisy Chissaque

ICA's internship program requires active engagement. Interns were given duties that allowed them to gain valuable professional skills. They worked on research projects, policy papers and event planning to improve their analytical, communication, and project management skills.

Policy intern Lucas Bangsgaard shared his experience with the ICA. "Throughout my internship, I had the privilege of exploring the captivating cooperative model and its profound impact on communities worldwide from a global policy lens. Witnessing firsthand the nuanced dynamics of cooperative advocacy work was enlightening. I can hardly think of a more enriching initiation into the realm of cooperatives, a journey that has left me deeply inspired and eager to contribute meaningfully to their ongoing evolution."

Another policy intern, Jaydin Batista, says his internship with the ICA's Policy Department, where he was mentored by the department's Director Joseph Njuguna, was a positive experience.

"When I first started I did not know what cooperatives were or how they operated globally. Through Mr. Njuguna's leadership, I quickly learned about cooperatives and how they contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While at the ICA, I assisted Mr. Njuguna on policy-related topics for the [International Year of Cooperatives], researched the positive impact of cooperatives in their communities, and led youth-orientated initiatives. Overall, my experience at the ICA was incredible and insightful."

"[This] journey has left me deeply inspired and eager to contribute meaningfully to the cooperative movement." - policy intern Lucas Bangsgaard

With this internship program, the ICA has had a long-lasting influence on both the interns and the organization. The interns' experience has been transformational, broadening their views and providing them with the skills and information required to become future leaders in the cooperative movement. For the ICA, the influx of youthful energy and fresh thinking has reinvigorated its mission and increased its ability to effect positive change.

Overall, the ICA's internship program has proven to be a mutually beneficial endeavor, promoting professional growth for young people while furthering the organization's objectives. As these interns take on their future positions, they continue the tradition of collaboration, ensuring that the ideas of mutual help, democratic governance and sustainable development remain alive and well.

The ICA's Internship Program follows the ILO Recommendation on Quality Apprenticeships guidelines. Read more in this article written by the former ICA Legal Policy Intern Taylor Thorell.

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