Charles Colvington Trust recipient, Jonty Cope, has completed his six month internship as a United Nations intern in New York.
Jonty from Laxey was successful in his application as a UN intern as a Programme Manager in New York.
He started the role, at the headquarters of the United Nations, after his graduation in the summer of 2024.
Journey to The United Nations
Jonty decided to apply for an internship in the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) after his studies at Durham University studying an MSc in Defence, Development and Diplomacy.
In his application, Jonty said he hoped the internship would provide an opportunity to understand the complexities of humanitarian security of UN operations in challenging environments from an insider’s perspectives.
Based in New York, the UNDSS is responsible for providing safety and security services to all UN agencies and departments operating in over 131 countries.
Working in the Division of Partnerships and Specialised Support, Jonty was able to experience the reality of working in the UNDSS.
He also had the opportunity to work directly with the people who offer security expertise and support to enable the safe conduct of UN missions, activities, and programs across the world.
Continuous Learning
Commenting on his experience, Jonty said: “What stood out most during my time at UNDSS was the people.
“I was impressed by the daily drive, commitment, and focus on continuous learning exhibited by UNDSS staff.
“I was struck by the mutual respect extended to interns, which fostered an incredibly supportive and professional environment.”
Jonty Cope.
“The team’s dedication to their work and ability to inspire and mentor was a defining feature of my experience.”
Charles Colvington Foundation
The Charles Colvington Foundation wants to give the opportunity for more young people to take advantage of educational and professional development in the United Nations Internship programme.
Chair of the Charles Colvington Foundation, Jennie Thompson said:
“It’s a privilege to be able to honour the wishes of Charles Colvington and his wife and support young Manx students wanting to take on a life changing experience at the United Nations through the Foundation and Trust set up for this purpose.
“We would encourage anyone with an interest in humanitarian affairs to consider the UN Internship Programme and to apply to the Charles Colvington Foundation for financial funding to help towards travel and accommodation costs.”
Jennie Thompson, Chair of the Charles Colvington Foundation.
New York is only one of many locations across the world where the United Nations offers internships, and across a multitude of disciplines.
You can find out more about the foundation by clicking here.
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