Weber Shandwick and Media Trust launch internship promoting diversity

Weber Shandwick has teamed up with UK communications charity Media Trust to create a paid internship programme which aims to bring in diverse talent to the PR industry.

Following a successful pilot project in 2015, Weber will recruit three or four young people for the programme from a range of backgrounds each year. Initially, it will focus on engaging “less advantaged” potential recruits in London.

During the four month internship, each participant will spend a month  in four specialist departments gaining experience in different PR and communications disciplines, including digital and social media.

Caroline Diehl, chief executive and founder of the Media Trust, said: “Media Trust is delighted to be a partner in this powerful initiative. Strengthening diversity across the UK’s media and creative industries is vital for our communities, as well as bringing innovation and new talent into the sector.”

Media Trust piloted a ‘Transforming Hidden Talent’ programme with Weber Shandwick in 2015 which helped Qadar Arif, who took part in the initiative, secure a full-time role with Weber’s London-based corporate communications practice.

Arif said: “After I finished university it was very difficult to find a stable position in communications, but this internship programme gave me an opportunity that I didn’t think was possible.  Everyone at Weber Shandwick has been incredibly supportive to help me grow and start my career.”