EmpowerLink connects motivated individuals
— both international and Iraqi — with meaningful internship and volunteering opportunities worldwide
We act as a professional placement agent, facilitating partnerships between candidates and host organizations across humanitarian, development, educational, and private sectors, ensuring a mutually beneficial and culturally enriching experience
What Makes EmpowerLink Unique
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A first in Iraq: One of the very few professional placement services operating in the country.
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Two-way exchange: International interns/volunteers in Iraq and Iraqi candidates abroad.
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Cross-sectoral reach: Collaborations with NGOs, companies, universities, and social enterprises (e.g., Mercy Hands, Seven Sense for Media, agro-business partners).
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Social impact through professional exchange: Organizations gain global perspectives while young professionals contribute to real projects.
Our Mission
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Facilitate Professional Placements: Connect interns and volunteers with high-quality hosting organizations worldwide
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Support Institutional Growth: Strengthen Iraqi civil society organizations and companies through knowledge exchange
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Promote Cultural & Professional Exchange: Foster collaboration between Iraq and the global community via work-based learning experiences
Who Can Apply?
Eligible Nationalities
Due to governmental visa restrictions, we can only accept applicants from the following countries:
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United Kingdom, European Union countries
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Canada, Switzerland
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Australia, New Zealand
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Japan, South Korea
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China, Russia
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Bachelor's or Master's degree in International Affairs, Global or International Studies, Non-Profit Management, or other relevant fields.
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Passion for humanitarian and development work, particularly in refugee contexts or the Middle East region.
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Ability to work at least 35 hours per week.
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Strong oral and written communication skills.
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Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
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Knowledge of the Arabic language is a bonus, though not required.
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Prior experience working in culturally diverse settings.
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Some project management experience is preferred.
TESTIMONIALS
Justine and Francesco, who joined the Expat Program Management Internship Program in early 2021, were among the first group of expat interns. They both secured full-time positions as Program Managers at Mercy Hands and later advanced to senior roles in international organizations. Listen to their insights on the program in this testimonial video.
Learning Arabic Language!
When possible, expat interns will be offered Arabic Language lessons! Watch one of our interns presenting her assignment to the Arabic tutor.
Interns Touring Iraq!
During their free time, interns will have the opportunity to explore Iraq and visit incredible natural and historic sites—some of which are unknown even to locals! These tours are organized by Mercy Hands' affiliate, Seventh Sense for Media and Art Production Ltd., which provides special discounts and customized tour packages exclusively for interns.
Watch the videos below to hear firsthand from interns as they share their experiences touring Iraq. In these testimonials, they talk about the memorable sites they've visited and how the tours have enriched their time in the country.
Intern Application
If you are an expat young professional who is interested in gaining field experience in a humanitarian or development sector then we encourage you to apply!
Host CSO Application
If you are an Iraqi CSO interested in hosting an expat young professional then drop us a message and we will be in touch with you soon!