Cape Town City Centre: Operations Intern

1000 Ocean Startups is a global coalition dedicated to accelerating innovation in the “blue economy” to restore ocean health. It brings together a global ecosystem of incubators, accelerators, venture capitalists (VCs), and matching platforms to support startups focused on impactful, ocean-positive solutions. We are looking for a suitably qualified and energetic intern to support the Cape Town based operations team to grow their community structures as they prepare for the Our Ocean Conference in June 2026. You will be expected to coordinate community facing communications and help maintain governance processes as well as maintain shared infrastructure and coordinate workflows between regional coalition partners. Supporting the planning, logistics and coordination for the formal launce of the Our Ocean Conference, preparing conference material in collaboration with partners, ESOs and internal teams to ensure alignment of all aspects of the conference, are critical elements of this role. To be considered you will need to have a bachelors qualification in Environmental Studies, Business Studies, Development Studies or similar. Those with a post graduate qualification will be at an advantage. You must be able to demonstrate strong organisational skills with a collaborative approach to achieving multi player objectives. The ability to synthesise information and produce clear communications is paramount. An interest in impact driven work, sustainability or ocean related issues is an advantage. In return you will and enjoy the mentorship and collaboration with a dynamic, purpose-driven team. In addition to flexible, hybrid working arrangements and a generous monthly stipend, this role presents a unique opportunity to join a group of people who are focussed on making a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities whilst positively impacting sustainability, the environment and ocean economy. You will be exposed to and have the opportunity to create relationships with key industry players and thought leaders from around the world.