Inside GCF's Dynamic Environment
Emma's internship journey gives us a broad perspective as she initially worked in accreditation with external stakeholders, and later transitioned to investment operations, gaining perspective on both external partnerships and internal project management. This dual experience highlights GCF's evolving nature as a relatively young organisation that continues to adapt and grow.
"Because of the wide variety of people who are here, you get to speak with people who have been at the Fund since its founding and really have seen all iterations," Emma explains. "At the same time, you get to meet lots of new recruits who bring experience from a variety of backgrounds - MDBs, UN, private sector."
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Interns
For those interested in following Emma's footsteps, she offers several practical insights:
- A master's degree appears to be an unofficial prerequisite for successful applications
- Being a self-starter and showing initiative is crucial
- Understanding GCF's challenges through resources like Independent Evaluation Unit reports can give candidates an edge
- Informal networking through "elevator conversations and coffee chats" proves invaluable
Beyond the Obvious
Perhaps most surprisingly, Emma reveals that many GCF staff aren't primarily climate change practitioners, but rather experts in specific niches that contribute to the organisation's broader mission. The internship itself is notably hands-on, with interns often handling overflow tasks from supervisors and being deeply involved in day-to-day operations - offering real-world experience in international climate finance.
Listen to this unique short Impactpool Podcast episode to hear more about Emma's experience and get detailed advice on pursuing an internship opportunity at the Green Climate Fund.