The Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF) has officially launched the call for applications for its 2026 Internship Program, offering university students and recent graduates based in Istanbul a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in an international, multicultural environment. This youth-driven program allows participants to extend their academic learning into practical professional experience while contributing to impactful initiatives across the OIC region. Application Deadline: 18 February 2026 (23:59 Istanbul Time) Why Join the ICYF Internship Program? The ICYF Internship Program is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and professional practice. Interns benefit from: Practical experience aligned with their academic background Exposure to professional development opportunities Opportunities to build valuable professional networks Experience working in a diverse, multicultural environment By joining ICYF, interns gain insight into international cooperation, youth empowerment, diplomacy, media, and entrepreneurship within the framework of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). ICYF Departments and Internship Opportunities Interns may apply to one of the following units, provided they meet the relevant criteria: 1. Department of Projects This department develops and implements youth-focused programs aligned with the OIC Youth Strategy. It designs and oversees multi-dimensional projects targeting leadership development, media, volunteering, environment, arts, culture, academia, Islamic heritage, social entrepreneurship, mental health, and combating Islamophobia. Ideal candidates should: Be skilled and passionate about youth work Have experience in youth-related initiatives Demonstrate research and reporting skills Show enthusiasm for exploring regional and global youth trends 2. Department of Foreign Affairs This department manages bilateral and multilateral relations with ministries, embassies, international institutions, and youth organizations. It prepares diplomatic correspondence, agreements, resolutions, and official communications. Preferred backgrounds include: International Relations Political Science International Law Journalism International Political Economy Strong research, analytical, communication, and organizational skills are essential. 3. Department of Education and Training This department supports educational development initiatives, including the Model OIC (MOIC) simulation programs and youth-focused training activities. Preferred qualifications: Degree in Social Sciences, Law, Management, or related fields Interest in education and youth training Enthusiasm for working with university and high school students Arabic language skills (recommended) Turkish language skills (a plus) 4. Media Coordinatorship The Media unit manages ICYF’s public image, digital content, website, and social media platforms. Responsibilities include content creation, video production, graphic design, and media monitoring. Candidates should: Study Communication, Fine Arts, or related disciplines Have experience in media production or visual communication Be proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, and Premiere 5. Young Business Hub (YBH) The Young Business Hub focuses on youth economic empowerment through startup competitions, investment summits, entrepreneurship forums, bootcamps, TVET programs, and the International Incubation Center (IIC). Ideal applicants should: Demonstrate passion for entrepreneurship Show strong communication and networking skills Stay informed about global startup trends Internship Modality and Duration The internship will primarily require physical attendance at the ICYF Headquarters: Location: Istanbul World Trade Center, A3 Block, 7th Floor, Yeşilköy, Istanbul Note: Depending on internal procedures, some tasks may be conducted online. Program Terms: Term 1: 01 April 2026 – 31 August 2026 Term 2: 01 September 2026 – 31 January 2027 Interns are eligible for a one-month vacation during their term. Eligibility Requirements Generic Criteria Applicants must: Be between 18 and 35 years old Be based in Istanbul Be currently enrolled in a degree program or have graduated within the last six months Be from an OIC Member State, Observer State, or Muslim minority in a non-OIC state Demonstrate strong English proficiency (Arabic or French is an asset) Have good knowledge of MS Office Be willing to work in a multicultural setting Gender balance will be considered in the selection process. Important Notes The internship is unpaid. Only food and transportation allowances are provided according to ICYF regulations. Applicants must meet the qualifications specific to the department they apply for. Late applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. Application Requirements Applicants must submit: 1. Motivation Letter (Maximum 2000 Characters) The letter should address: What inspired the applicant to apply How the internship will support personal and professional growth How the knowledge gained will be applied in future endeavors 2. Curriculum Vitae Must be uploaded in English only Maximum length: 2 pages Certification Interns who successfully complete the program with full attendance and satisfactory performance will receive an Internship Certificate. Contact Information For inquiries, applicants may contact: internship@icyforum.org The 2026 ICYF Internship Program presents a valuable opportunity for young professionals in Istanbul to gain international exposure, enhance their professional skills, and contribute to youth empowerment initiatives across the OIC region. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before 18 February 2026. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.