I felt a deep sense of privilege and duty in preparation to begin my Public Interest Communications Fellow journey. I believe that as the field of media and communications grows more polarized and divisive, an opportunity like this becomes exceedingly important to support and work for organizations that educate, tell a story, and create strategic pathways for change.
From the very start of boot camp, it became clear the Frank Karel Fellowship was the right place for pursuing this goal. From the moment I stepped into the training session, I saw that every speaker was passionate about the power of inspiring action through their work. Whether discussing graphic design, media relations, or the significance of public interest communications itself, they advised us to craft narratives that engage people, foster understanding, and mobilize communities for justice. This environment energized me to begin my internship.
However, even though I felt optimistic about my experience, the first day at Greenpeace was daunting. Working for an international non-profit, I wondered if I could bring any new ideas to the table. My supervisor told me to conduct a TikTok audit of the organization as my first assignment. What initially seemed like a minor task soon proved to be a significant learning experience and offered me a window into how I could make a difference at Greenpeace.
By evaluating these short clips as both a consumer and a critic, I discovered the immense potential of TikTok to raise awareness and generate interest around critical issues. I witnessed first-hand how this communications platform could engage a younger audience and spark curiosity about environmental challenges, even as methods of engagement evolve.
Through this task, I learned that innovative methods—whether through memes, trending challenges, or creative storytelling—can effectively convey important messages. I realized that using these tools strategically can help bridge the gap between complex issues and the public’s understanding. This experience not only broadened my perspective on digital communication strategies but also reaffirmed my excitement about the role of public interest communications in fostering awareness and driving change.
Furthermore, I learned the effort and importance of continually developing innovative ways to interact with the audience. During a content team retreat, I participated in developing strategic plans for the upcoming months, focusing on delivering key messages. This planning allowed me to see the vision of Greenpeace. I have gained valuable insights and am thrilled about the work I will be a part of in the future.
As I reflect on these past four weeks, I cherish the opportunity to work towards the critical cause of climate justice. Finally, I am overjoyed to spend this time in a city where almost everyone shares the same goal: learning, growing, and absorbing the importance of the work we get to do every day.