Position Overview:

The Public Relations & Community Engagement Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting Tribal communications, community outreach, event promotion, and programming under the mentorship of the Public Relations & Strategic Communications Coordinator and the Richey Community Center Coordinator. This internship provides an opportunity for a student to learn how communications and community engagement support the priorities of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and strengthen connections with Tribal members. The intern will assist with photography, digital content, communications planning, community events, outreach materials, calendars and timelines, and other projects supporting Tribal Administration and the Richey Community Center. The position is designed to provide practical experience while helping the intern develop skills in public relations, strategic communications, community engagement, project coordination, and Tribal government operations.

Schedule & Work Environment:

Program:

Pascua Yaqui Tribal Leadership Internship Program Cohort:

Spring 202

Internship Period:

January 18 - May 6, 2027

Estimated Commitment:

Approximately 10-12 hours per week

Supervision/Mentorship:

Public Relations & Strategic Communications Coordinator and Richey Community Center Coordinator Work Setting:

May include office-based work, community events, Tribal facilities, Richey Community Center activities, and other approved locations.

Pay:

$3,000 semester stipend The intern will participate in the broader Tribal Leadership Internship Program, including leadership development sessions, cultural and governmental learning opportunities, professional development activities, and a final reflection or presentation. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The intern may assist with: Taking photographs at Tribal programs, community events, meetings, and activities for approved communications and outreach purposes. Assisting with the development of digital and print content highlighting Tribal programs, services, events, and community initiatives. Supporting the development and organization of communications timelines, content calendars, event calendars, and project schedules. Assisting with social media content, announcements, flyers, community updates, and other public-facing communications. Supporting the Public Relations & Strategic Communications Coordinator with gathering information from Tribal departments for communications and outreach efforts. Assisting with storytelling projects that highlight Tribal programs, community members, events, accomplishments, and initiatives. Supporting communications and promotional efforts for Richey Community Center programs, services, resource fairs, cultural activities, and community events. Assisting with maintaining and developing the Richey Community Center's programming and community outreach calendars. Helping document community events and activities through photography, written summaries, and other approved forms of media. Assisting with event preparation, outreach, logistics, and day-of-event communications. Supporting efforts to gather community feedback and identify opportunities to improve outreach and engagement. Assisting with organizing photographs, digital files, communications materials, event records, and other program documentation. Collaborating with Tribal departments and community partners on approved communications and community engagement projects. Participating in meetings, events, and community activities to gain exposure to Tribal government operations and community-based service. Completing other communications, outreach, administrative, or special projects as assigned by internship supervisors. Learning Objectives Through this internship, the student will: Develop practical skills in public relations, strategic communications, photography, digital content creation, and community outreach. Understand how Tribal government communicates information, programs, services, and leadership priorities to the community. Gain experience developing communications calendars, project timelines, and coordinated outreach efforts. Learn how photography, storytelling, and digital media can be used responsibly to document and communicate Tribal programs and community activities. Gain experience supporting community events, programs, and engagement initiatives. Understand the relationship between Tribal Administration, communications, Tribal departments, and community-based programs. Strengthen professional communication, organization, teamwork, time management, and project coordination skills. Develop an understanding of the importance of cultural awareness, confidentiality, accuracy, and professionalism when communicating on behalf of a Tribal government. Build professional experience working directly with Tribal staff, community members, departments, and programs. Potential Majors or Areas of Interest Students from a variety of academic backgrounds may be considered. Areas of study or interest may include: Communications Public Relations Journalism Digital Media Marketing Photography or Visual Communications Public Administration Business Administration Community Development Sociology Indigenous Studies Political Science Public Policy Education Related fields or demonstrated interest in communications, Tribal government, or community engagement Preferred Skills and Interests The ideal intern should demonstrate: Interest in Tribal government, public relations, communications, or community engagement. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Interest in photography, digital media, social media, or storytelling. Basic computer and organizational skills. Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines. Willingness to attend community events and interact respectfully with Tribal members, staff, leadership, and community partners. Ability to work collaboratively while also completing assigned projects independently. Professionalism, discretion, cultural awareness, and respect for confidential or sensitive information. Willingness to learn Pascua Yaqui community priorities, governmental operations, and culturally appropriate communication practices.