WBG Pioneer - Inclusive Internship Program

Description

WBG Pioneers, the World Bank Group’s Internship Program, offers undergraduate and postgraduate students a high impact learning experience at the heart of global development. Participants gain hands on experience in a diverse and dynamic environment, contribute fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, and connect with international professionals working to end poverty on a livable planet.

WBG Pioneer

Background/Organizational Context 

This track reflects the WBG's recognition that systemic barriers based on race and ethnicity continue to limit equitable access to international professional opportunities for Indigenous and Afro-descendant populations across Latin America. Interns are placed across all functional areas of the Bank — in economics, technology, operations, communications, legal, climate, finance, and more — based on their academic and professional qualifications. 

The Inclusive Internship Program aims to create mutual value by offering meaningful career opportunities for Indigenous and Afro-descendant candidates from Latin America, while also generating insights, building inclusive capabilities, and strengthening team practices across WBG units. 

Program Objectives: 

• Build a more representative talent pipeline that reflects the population of the region the WBG serves. 

• Enrich teams with the cultural knowledge, lived experiences, and problem-solving perspectives of Indigenous and Afro-descendant professionals. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Interns will take part in substantive work aligned with their qualifications and the hosting team's priorities. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to: 

• Research and Analysis: Conduct research on development topics, policies, and projects; summarize findings in reports, presentations, or briefing notes. 

• Data Collection and Management: Collect, clean, and analyze data to support ongoing projects, evaluations, or reports; maintain accurate records and databases. 

• Project Support: Assist teams in planning, monitoring, and implementing initiatives; support coordination with internal and external stakeholders. 

• Communication and Outreach: Draft communication materials such as newsletters, social media content, and internal updates; assist in preparing materials for workshops, webinars, and events. 

• Knowledge Management: Document lessons learned, best practices, and project updates; contribute to knowledge-sharing platforms. 

• Administrative Support: Provide logistical support for meetings, events, and reporting as needed, while ensuring smooth project operations. 

Selection Criteria

•Candidates must be currently enrolled in, or in the final year of, an undergraduate or postgraduate (master’s/PhD) program  
•Candidates must have 0–6 years of relevant professional experience  
•Academic background must align with the requirements outlined in the job description 
•Demonstrated interest in development work and the World Bank Group’s mission 
•Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills 
•Effective written and verbal communication skills 
•Ability to work effectively in diverse, team-based environments 
•Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities within tight deadlines 
•Proficiency in English; additional languages may be required depending on the role 
•Candidates must identify as Indigenous and/or Afro-descendant, and reside in, or hold citizenship from, a Latin American country. 
•Candidates must hold, or be able to obtain, a valid work permit or authorization to work in the country where they reside and/or the country where they wish to complete the internship. 

Note: Please limit your applications to a maximum of three positions. Applications exceeding this limit will not be considered.

WBG Culture Attributes:
1. Sense of urgency: Anticipate and quickly respond to the needs of internal and external stakeholders.
2. Thoughtful risk-taking: Challenge the status quo and push boundaries to achieve greater impact.
3. Empowerment and accountability: Empower yourself and others to act and hold each other accountable for results.

The World Bank Group values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of World Bank Group member countries to apply, regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.  Sub-Saharan African nationals, Caribbean nationals, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.