Program Overview The Freshwater and Community Conservation Externship, offered jointly by the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy, is an 8-week, part-time, fully remote program designed for young people interested in freshwater conservation, community engagement, and environmental storytelling. Open to participants ages 18–25 from around the world, the externship provides a structured opportunity to explore how global freshwater challenges intersect with local communities—and how sustainable, community-driven solutions can be advanced. Beginning on February 9, 2026, participants commit approximately 10 hours per week. All meetings and learning sessions are recorded to support flexible participation across time zones. Students who successfully complete the program receive a $500 educational stipend to help offset internet and technology costs associated with program participation. Applications close on January 25, 2026, and early submission is strongly encouraged. The Opportunity Freshwater ecosystems are under increasing pressure from climate change, pollution, habitat degradation, and inequitable access. This externship invites participants to critically examine these challenges while developing the skills needed to translate scientific research and global conservation strategies into meaningful local action. Externs work alongside scientists, conservation practitioners, and peers to investigate freshwater issues affecting their own communities. Through guided research, interviews, and storytelling, participants explore how freshwater health influences ecosystems, economies, and human well-being, and how community-led solutions can strengthen freshwater stewardship. The program emphasizes applied learning, systems thinking, and communication, equipping participants with tools that support future academic, professional, or advocacy pathways in conservation and sustainability. What Participants Will Work On Freshwater Conservation Exploration Investigate key freshwater issues, including water access and quality, watershed protection, river and wetland degradation, habitat loss, and emerging conservation solutions Examine how global freshwater challenges manifest at the local level Investigative Research Apply primary and secondary research methods to analyze freshwater conservation initiatives Identify data gaps, risks, and opportunities within local freshwater systems Community Engagement and Public Speaking Conduct interviews with community members, conservation leaders, scientists, and policymakers Explore the social, cultural, and economic relationships between communities and freshwater ecosystems Problem-Solving and Solution Design Assess existing local efforts and identify opportunities for improvement Develop realistic, community-centered strategies to strengthen freshwater protection Storytelling for Impact Translate research findings into compelling written, visual, and verbal narratives Create stories that raise awareness and motivate action around freshwater conservation Skills and Experience Gained Participants completing the externship will gain: Freshwater Systems LiteracyA foundational understanding of freshwater ecosystems, key threats, and policy and community-based solutions Research and Insight DevelopmentExperience conducting and synthesizing primary and secondary research into actionable insights Community-Focused Problem SolvingStructured approaches to identifying gaps in conservation efforts and designing feasible, impact-oriented solutions Cross-Sector CollaborationDirect exposure to how scientists, communicators, and community partners collaborate across organizations Portfolio-Ready DeliverablesCreation of an Esri StoryMap showcasing research, data visualization, and storytelling skills Global-to-Local Systems ThinkingStrengthened ability to connect global environmental processes to local outcomes for people and nature Program Highlights Hands-On ExperienceEngage with real-world conservation challenges alongside two globally recognized environmental organizations Global NetworkCollaborate with peers from diverse regions and learn directly from conservation leaders and experts Future-Ready SkillsBuild competencies valued in conservation, sustainability, policy, education, and environmental communication Flexible and Accessible FormatFully remote participation with recorded sessions to accommodate varied schedules Eligibility The externship is open to: Individuals ages 18–25 Applicants from any country or region Students and early-career individuals with an interest in freshwater conservation, community advocacy, or science communication No prior coursework or professional experience in conservation or environmental science is required. Curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn are essential. About the Partner Organizations The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit that leverages science, exploration, education, and storytelling to protect the planet. Since 1888, it has supported over 15,000 grants worldwide and reaches millions of learners annually through education and media initiatives. The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit dedicated to protecting the lands and waters upon which all life depends. By addressing the biodiversity and climate crises, the organization works to create a future where people and nature thrive. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit their application by January 25, 2026. Early applications are encouraged due to strong global interest. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY 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 seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible 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.