My supervisor approved of the four ideas which I have been working on throughout my internship period. I developed key ideas for the Mentoring Program and have it structured in a Concept Note Format. I used my skills from Research in UN to draw up a concise proposal and submit it. Through this process I got approval from my supervisor to start building the program within the UN Together Mentoring Platform. I was given access by the UN Together team leader in New York. I learned how to build the program, and how to use the Together Platform as an Administrator. My supervisor was also closely monitoring me, especially when tailoring the program objectives, and questions to fit interns. I conducted surveys and interviews with several interns to learn about their expectations if we were to participate in a mentoring program. I also drafted goals and objectives, communication materials, and other tasks to ensure the program is fully developed.

Aside from building a new program, I was also processing internship certificates and internship offers. Every week we receive an average of 7 internship requests. I learned how to use the systems in processing the offers and certificates also how to carefully check all details before issuing an offer. This exercise has taught me to be very thorough and to read all the details. Throughout my entire internship, I processed 70+ offers and 40+ certificates.

Collaborating with my fellow intern colleagues in the HRM unit, we organized four social intern activities during my onsite internship period (3 months). These activities allowed us to network, share valuable experiences, and discuss UN-related topics of mutual interest.

Lastly, I had the privilege of participating in the Asia Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development as a volunteer for SDG 17 Round Table Discussion and served as a liaison officer to Brunei for a day. These experiences exposed me to insightful dialogues as I listened and learned a lot from different diplomats.

●The linkage between the internship program and UNFA Course contents / 国連・外交コース授業での学びとインターンシップ
Most of the courses I undertook were directly linked to my internship at ESCAP. These courses proved immensely useful as I was able to apply what I learned during my internship in various ways. For instance, the proposal I developed drew heavily from the knowledge and skills I gained in the Research in UN Class, where we were tasked with creating 2 proposals. Additionally, my involvement in the Asia Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD) was influenced by my interest in SDG 17, which stemmed from my studies in Global Sustainable Development.

During my time at ESCAP, I attended meetings and conferences where country representatives passionately debated policy amendments. This experience allowed me to connect these discussions to my Multilateral Negotiations Classes, providing a real-world perspective on diplomatic negotiations and the careful choice of words by diplomats. I also attended online sessions on climate change and raised a question about climate finance and sustainability, particularly concerning Pacific islands, which I learned about in the Environmental Policy Class.
The synergy between the courses I took and my internship experience was remarkable. It provided a hands-on understanding of working in an international organization, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained in class. This immersive experience has not only broadened my perspective but has also fueled my determination to pursue a career as an international civil servant, driven by a desire to contribute to my country and region.

●Future career plan / 将来の目標、キャリアプラン
After completing my UNFA courses and internship, my determination to pursue a career as an international civil servant has strengthened significantly. Despite the competitive nature of entering the UN as staff, I am committed to at least attempting to apply for the Young Professional Program. I've noticed that my country, Vanuatu, is still underrepresented in the UN, which further motivates me to strive for this opportunity.

If the YPP does not materialize due to its competitiveness, I am open to exploring other avenues to achieve my goal of becoming an international civil servant. This might involve seeking alternative programs or opportunities within the UN system or other international organizations.
Regardless of the path I take, my overarching career goal remains clear: to serve as an International Civil Servant. This aspiration is fueled by a deep-seated desire to contribute meaningfully to global initiatives and represent my country on the international stage.

●What you thought after the internship / インターンシップに参加しての感想
I am immensely grateful for the opportunity that led me to secure this internship, especially under the guidance of UNFA professors. Their wealth of experience and practical teaching on theories and case studies have significantly broadened my understanding of international affairs.It was surprising and disappointing to note that there was not a single intern from the Pacific region during my time at ESCAP nor in the past years. This observation prompted me to make recommendations to the Chief of the Human Resource Section regarding the inclusion of interns from the Pacific Community, considering the financial constraints for unpaid internships.

My proposal was inspired by the words of Professor Shinyo, who once mentioned something along these lines; If there's a will, there is a way, regardless of how small your country/ region may be.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to UNFA and my wonderful advising Professor Miwa, for the opportunity, support, and guidance throughout this journey. Tank Yu Tumas (Vanuatu Way). 

  ◆関西学院大学大学院副専攻「国連・外交コース」について◆