How can you gain work experience if almost every job requires that same experience?
Many students are familiar with this vicious circle. That’s why NNLPD invites you to join an internship program.
We are not the organization that signs off on a document without offering real practice. We choose those who want to:
- try out real, practical tasks;
- gain skills that employers value;
- experience the inner workings of a charitable organization.
Students from the following universities have already completed internships with us:
- National University of “Kyiv-Mohyla Academy”
- Institute of Philology at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
- Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatyuk National Pedagogical University
- Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design
How to join us?
- Fill out the application form,
- Pass an online interview.
This helps us understand whether a student’s request matches our opportunities. For example, if a student has a ski-related profile, we are unlikely to help them develop their expertise.
What happens next?
After successful selection, we sign the internship agreement, prepare a personal program, assign a mentor, and define the skills to develop.
The first day is dedicated to meeting the team, projects, tasks, and the behind-the-scenes of the organization.
This approach allows us to work with motivated students, gain a fresh perspective on our daily tasks, and help students acquire valuable experience in their desired field.
There are cases when we don’t approve students for the internship. This happens when basic skills are lacking—for example, if a candidate cannot work with online tools, which are essential for us. Sometimes we also cannot provide the tasks the student expects.
Moreover, after completing the internship, students become candidates for employment if there are open positions. The organization prioritizes those who have already demonstrated their skills in joint work. There are always opportunities within the volunteer community if no vacancies are available.
Stories of those who have already completed an internship with us
Maria Klymenko, Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design, 5th year, Law, Business Law
In 2025, four female students completed internships with us. Maria was one of them—and the first to receive a job offer after finishing.
From day one, she dove into work: from interviewing community foundations to participating in large-scale events and partner communications:
“I wanted to feel part of positive changes in society. And that’s exactly what happened—I am thrilled and grateful for this.”
Maria’s internship was supervised by Kateryna Syvyrin, Project Manager at the “Resource Hub.” One of Maria’s most interesting tasks was conducting interviews with community foundations. This allowed her to learn how different regional initiatives work and to hear their unique stories:
“It was a chance to talk to foundations from different cities, learn about the importance of their work, and explore the history of their development.”
Another highlight was her participation in “Meeting for Change.” Maria not only observed but also joined the event organization:
“I’m so glad it took place during my internship, and I had the chance to be part of it.”
A crucial part of Maria’s experience was the support of her mentor. Smooth communication and readiness to help made the process comfortable and productive:
“When I started communicating with Kateryna, I immediately understood—it was a match. She was always in touch, explained everything, and we discussed it all during calls. Thanks to her, my internship went even better than I imagined.”
After the internship, Maria became even more confident in her career choice:
“I was certain this was my path. Now I know I want to continue growing professionally in this field.”
Maria is completing her second internship with Philanthropists and has accepted the offer to join the team.
“To other students, I would advise not to be afraid to try new things if you feel the drive inside. And never give up after the first attempt,” says Maria.
Viktoriia Korotkikh, Institute of Philology, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, English Philology and Translation (two Western European languages)
During her internship, Viktoriia’s main task was translating Ukrainian texts into English.
“I improved my communication skills, teamwork, time management, translation of different types of texts, and gained knowledge about what philanthropy is and how the National Network works,” she shares in the survey.
Most of her work was with the communications department and the Youth Bank of Initiatives project manager. All tasks were tracked in a table with all necessary additional information. Viktoriia also had the opportunity to work in the office.
She warmly recalls her experience:
“It was a great experience working in a young team that wants to grow and improve, where mutual understanding and respect prevail. Even if you are just an ‘intern,’ you are treated as a team member. I think it’s essential for a first work experience to see how it can be—and it can truly be great!”
We are ready to consider Viktoriia for available positions in the team and confidently recommend her for employment after her internship.
Dreaming of an internship that will change your perception of working in the civil society sector?
We are now accepting applications from students who want not just to “get credit” but to dive into real projects, communications, and social impact creation.
We are looking for those eager to learn, try new things, work in a team, and gain experience they can genuinely be proud of.
We are also open to collaborating with those writing term papers, theses, or research on philanthropy, community development, volunteering, or charity. If you need real cases, expert commentary, or consultations, we are here to help.
Fill out the application form to start your internship, and we will contact you.
