PARTIALLY FUNDED BY EDUCATION NEW ZEALAND’S PRIME MINISTER’S SCHOLARSHIP FOR LATIN AMERICA
AGRICULTURE AND SUSTAINABILITY IN MEXICO CITY
DELIVERED BY PAGODA PROJECTS
Pagoda are delighted to be working with Massey University as an approved internship provider of Education New Zealand to facilitate a partially-funded and fully-supported Mexico City Programme.
Key Dates:
- 30th Sept 2022 – Application Deadline for both the Pagoda Application AND the Massey Application
- 3rd January 2023 – Arrival in Mexico City
- 4th January – 17th February 2023 – Programme Takes Place
- 19th February – All students have departed for New Zealand Return
Students taking part will embark on a structured onboarding filled with engaging activities and high-profile guest speakers, designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to Mexico City and contemporary bilateral considerations between Mexico and New Zealand. Following the introductory programme, students will embark on full-time internships of approximately six weeks. Internships will be arranged with successful applicants in advance.
The theme of the programme is agriculture and sustainability and therefore we encourage those with a keen and demonstrable interest in this area to apply. Whilst internships can cover a variety of sectors and aren’t dependent on fields of study, preference will be given to those majoring in the following or similar disciplines: dairy, fishery, food & beverages, environmental services, farming, food production, international trade & development, international relations, renewables & environment, and sustainable agriculture.
The programme includes quality accommodation, assistance with the required visa and full in-country staff support from Pagoda to ensure you only have to focus on making the most of this fantastic opportunity!
NAVIGATION
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
MORE THAN JUST AN INTERNSHIP
6-week full time summer internship following comprehensive onboarding activities
Private accommodation, inclusive of all bills & Wi-Fi, on good transport links, sharing with other students on the programme.
Visa processing and comprehensive travel/medical insurance as an optional extra.
Airport pickup, transfer to accommodation, welcome pack & detailed orientation.
Regular organised events, trips & activities throughout the programme.
24/7 on-site emergency and general support from the friendly Pagoda team.
Access to Pagoda’s online Skills Courses to improve your employability, cultural fluency & digital skills.
Join over 4000 previous students in the Pagoda exclusive alumni network for future employability opportunities across the globe.
FUNDING
Massey University have secured government funding from Education New Zealand via the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Latin America (PMSLA) to help their students towards the cost of completing this Pagoda summer internship programme.
There are 20 places available for those who are currently enrolled at Massey, with funding available to help cover the cost of the programme, accommodation, flights, visa and insurance.
Before the programme, your university will be able to confirm the exact amount of funding you’re eligible for, and what (if any) contribution costs will be needed. All confirmed participants will be required to pay a refundable $200 NZD deposit to Pagoda Projects upon accepting the award, which will be returned following successful completion of the programme in line with our participant terms and conditions.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Pagoda will be accepting applications from July until the application deadline of October 9th.
To be eligible you must:
- Be enrolled at Massey University for the full duration of the programme
- Fulfil the eligibility criteria of Education New Zealand and key considerations:
- At the time of your application, you must: A. be a New Zealand citizen, or B. have permanent residence status; and C. be ordinarily resident in New Zealand (i.e., at the time of your application, you had resided in New Zealand for at least 12 of the previous 24 months).
- If you have already been awarded a PMSA/LA Scholarship as a member of a group programme, you may apply for a second PMSA/LA Scholarship as an individual (and vice versa).
- You are only eligible for a maximum of two awards in total (for previous PM Scholarship recipients, please disclose details upon application).
- The maximum PMSA/LA Scholarship funding that you are eligible to be awarded, whether as an individual, as part of a group programme, or both, is for 72 weeks over 24 months of active study time. For example, if a student is awarded a PMSA/PMSLA Scholarship as part of a group programme which is funded for 10 weeks, the same student is eligible to apply for a PMSA/LA Scholarship as an individual and could receive up to 62 weeks funding for the individual programme.
- You may hold other scholarships, awards or grants in addition to your Scholarship, provided that is permitted under the terms of the other award/s.
- You cannot apply for additional PMSA/LA Scholarship funding to extend your Programme after your Offer of Scholarship has been made.
Applicants will be required to submit a video recording of 3-5 minutes with instructions and guidelines provided. The pre-recorded video format has been chosen to give applicants the chance to record themselves on their own terms, removing the pressure of live interviews whilst letting them practice important skills. As part of the video, please disclose if you belong to any of the below equity groups.
- Māori and Pacific applicants who are identified as such by their community;
- Applicants who have a long-term medical condition or disability which impacts their study;
- Applicants who can demonstrate financial disadvantage, through receipt of means-tested support;
- Applicants who are typically based in a regional area and/or have relocated to study;
- Applicants who are current or former refugees;
- Applicants who identify as LGBTQI+;
- Applicants who are the first in their immediate family (partner, parent, grandparent, children, siblings) to attend university; or
- Applicants who are from a non-English speaking background, namely a language other than English is spoken at home.
Questions are framed to elicit a merit-based application process that also draws upon personal circumstances, thus enabling the selection panel to also consider not only who is the ‘best’ candidate, but who will benefit most from the experience.
- Tell us about any previous work experience you have and the skills you have that make you a good candidate for this programme?
- How do you think this experience will benefit your future career?
- What type of internship role are you looking for, what responsibilities are you expecting to have on place and what skills are you looking to practice during the internship?
- If successful, what potential challenges do you think you could face during your programme?
- Why do you think you should be awarded the scholarship?
The interview guidelines and scoring matrix can be accessed here for full visibility.
Our recommendations will be provided to your University with successful applicants provided with an offer in mid-September, and the final outcomes announced on or before the 30th of September. Upon accepting the award, participants will be required to sign a booking form and pay a refundable $200 NZD deposit to Pagoda.
Applicant scoring and shortlist recommendations will be completed by Pagoda Projects’ staff who have experience conducting equivalent exercises for the British Council’s Generation UK Programme, as well as for various University-funded programmes and previous Prime Minister’s Scholarship-funded programmes on behalf of Education New Zealand. The final decision on successful funding awardees will be made by representatives of Massey University.
1
STEP
Apply to Pagoda via the application below AND the Massey application by September 30th. We will then follow up with instructions. You will be asked to submit a video interview so your application can be assessed as part of the initial selection process.
2
STEP
If there are any follow up questions or clarifications, our team will be in touch, otherwise please sit tight until awardees are notified of their successful outcome by the end of October 2022.
3
STEP
Successful participants will be provided with detailed predeparture instructions and guided through the process to make sure everyone is ready to embark onto this fantastic, prestigious programme.
INTERNSHIPS
WE HAVE YOUR IDEAL POSITION
Successful applicants will be guided through various opportunities, across a wide variety of sectors, company sizes and roles.
Our team goes to great lengths to source meaningful internship opportunities for our participants, with extensive vetting of each company. Our internships are enjoyable, high quality and align with students’ academic and career goals.
Let us know your interests, and successful candidates will receive individualized guidance from our teams.
SOME POTENTIAL INTERNSHIPS:
EXPAND FOR MORE DETAILS
Position Code: MXBS68
Organisation Description:
This association is a non-profit civil society organisation that works to promote the prevention and control of water, air and soil pollution, and the preservation and restoration of the ecological balance, while encouraging the participation of the population in actions that improve their own subsistence conditions for the benefit of the community and its natural environment.
This association is looking to encourage the development of society in harmony with the natural environment through information and environmental education channels, to promote in all sectors the protection of ecosystems, the efficient use of natural resources and respect for living beings.
Role:
Sustainable Tourism Manager
Internship Description:
Possible tasks and projects include:
- Ecotourism Event Planning and Costing
- Event strategies creation
- Execution and monitoring of ecotourism events
- Reporting and proposals for event improvements
- Content capture and production
N.B. tasks and projects may vary depending on current priorities. Specific projects and responsibilities will be discussed during an interview.
Internship Requirements:
- Teamwork skills
- Responsibility
- Positive attitude
- Great communication skills
- Office skills
Don’t exactly match these requirements? If you have the enthusiasm and want to learn – then speak to Pagoda about this position and we’ll see what is possible!
Position Code: MXBS66
Organisation Description:
This association is a non-profit civil society organization that works to promote the prevention and control of water, air and soil pollution, and the preservation and restoration of ecological balance, while encouraging the participation of the population in actions that improve their own subsistence conditions for the benefit of the community and its natural environment.
This association is looking to encourage the development of society in harmony with the natural environment through information and environmental education channels, to promote in all sectors the protection of ecosystems, the efficient use of natural resources and respect for living beings.
Role:
Sustainability Project Manager
Internship Description:
Possible tasks and projects include:
- Support in the development of environmental education courses
- Measurement of business impacts
- Support in training sessions
- Audit visits
- Monitoring visits to Natural Protected Areas
N.B. tasks and projects may vary depending on current priorities. Specific projects and responsibilities will be discussed during an interview.
Internship Requirements:
- Teamwork
- Responsibility
- Positive attitude
- Communication skills
- Microsoft Office skills
Don’t exactly match these requirements? If you have the enthusiasm and want to learn – then speak to Pagoda about this position and we’ll see what is possible!
Internship Reference: MXSC01
Company Description:
This company is a Mexican civil society organisation dedicated to the conservation and resilience of biodiversity and environmental services that contribute to building a just and fair society in harmony with nature.
Since its creation this company has focused on fostering behavioural changes in society to achieve better patterns of natural resource use and management, which have made it possible to address problems such as marginalisation, unemployment, migration and other challenges that threaten the communities that own priority lands for biodiversity conservation.
Internship Position:
Environmental Impact Analyst with Environmental Organisation
Internship Description:
You will have the opportunity to work side by side with a Mexican civil society organisation dedicated to the conservation and resilience of biodiversity and environmental services that contribute to building a just and equitable society in harmony with nature.
You will work with the organisation to restore and conserve Mexico’s biodiversity through three programmes: Water, Climate Change and Nature.
Your position will consist of, but not be limited to:
- Reviewing academic literature related to relevant ecosystem assessments
- Research ecosystem assessment case studies to determine methodology, approach and data used
- Conduct interviews with practitioners and academics
- Build a framework for conducting a comprehensive ecosystem assessment, based on a review of the literature and case studies, as well as interviews
- Inventory and compile the relevant datasets set out in the framework and identify gaps
- Support the organisation in its three programmes Water, Climate Change and Nature as required.
Internship Requirements:
- We are looking for applicants who are studying or recently studied an environmental science related degree.
- Interest in environmental and energy issues
- Effective interpersonal communication skills
- Strong writing and research skills
- Data and information management
Position Code: MXSC02
Organisation Description:
This organisation believe that urban agriculture is a tool for profound social transformation, as well as a strategy to combat climate change, to assert our sovereignty and food security. Urban gardens provide the environmental benefits of a quality urban green area, and create microclimates and habitats for fauna and flora; They allow to close the cycle of nutrients by generating fertile soil, reducing food waste, producing nutritious vegetables and integrating the community.
Build regenerative, educational, training and social bonding models around the cultivation of food, the closing of the nutrient cycle; expanding local food production and access, to promote healthier, more participatory and sustainable communities. We aim to contribute to the development of healthy and resilient cities through the construction of comprehensive and replicable projects for the recovery and transformation of spaces through urban agriculture, sustainable trades and community outreach.
Role:
Urban Agriculture Internship
Internship Description:
Possible tasks and projects include:
- Preparation and elaboration of hot compost.
- Greenhouse: Germination and vegetable transplants.
- Growing beds maintenance: organic matter, weeding and seeding.
- Harvesting and cleaning seeds.
- Elaboration and application of bio fertilizers and bio repellents.
N.B. tasks and projects may vary depending on current priorities. Specific projects and responsibilities will be discussed during an interview.
Internship Requirements:
Preferably candidates with studies or knowledge in:
- agriculture
- agroecology
- biology
- natural resources
- ability/knowledge of gardening.
Other Skills:
- Responsible
- Proactive
- Team-working
- Punctual
Don’t exactly match these requirements? If you have the enthusiasm and want to learn – then speak to Pagoda about this position and we’ll see what is possible!
Position Code: MXBS63
Organisation Description:
This chamber of commerce is a non-profit civil association that was created in 1987 with the commitment to support and promote the sustained economic development of Mexican and Brazilian companies, fostering and facilitating successful business relationships between companies and institutions of both countries.
They were one of the first Bilateral Chambers of Latin America in Mexico and since our beginning, they have maintained leadership by developing important events: Mercosur, BRICS and Sectorial: Automotive, Agribusiness, Aerospace, Energy, Petrochemical, Human Training and Social Responsibility, among others.
They are currently part of the Mexico Brazil Latin America AC Council and we are integrated into a network of Bilateral Chambers within the entire American Continent. This allows them to expand and enhance the business horizon of our partners, effectively and efficiently linking companies and entrepreneurs from commerce, industry and tourism in Mexico and Brazil to the entire region.
They generate and maintain alliances with several of the most outstanding national and international institutions and companies, universities, cultural and technological centres, among others.
Role: Research & Events Assistant
Internship Description:
Possible tasks and projects include:
- Assist with the planning for upcoming trade missions to Mexico
- Research contacts in targeted countries and sectors
- Approach potential leads for participation in upcoming trade missions focused on sectors such as Aerospace, Automotive, Agrobusiness and Energy.
- Liaise with key business contacts regarding plans
- Participate in webinars with our members
N.B. tasks and projects may vary depending on current priorities. Specific projects and responsibilities will be discussed during an interview.
Internship Requirements:
- An interest in international relations
- Good research skills
- Professional demeanour
- Sector knowledge for the Agrobusiness, Aerospace or Automotive industries would be useful
- Good written English is essential
- Portuguese and Spanish language skills are useful but not a requirement
Don’t exactly match these requirements? If you have the enthusiasm and want to learn – then speak to Pagoda about this position and we’ll see what is possible!
NAVIGATION
ACCOMMODATION
FURNISHED APARTMENT ACCOMMODATION
The on-site Pagoda team in each destination sources and manages apartment accommodation for participants, in line with our accommodation quality policy.
You will always be provided with your own private bedroom and any shared facilities will always be with Pagoda participants only. Female-only accommodation is available and provided at no additional cost, with all located on good transport links in a secure area of the cities where Pagoda delivers programmes.
SUPPORT
PERSONALISED SUPPORT THROUGHOUT YOUR PAGODA EXPERIENCE
Our Student Support Outline gives a comprehensive guide to our support. 24/7 emergency support is included in every in-person programme.
Our local teams organise regular optional social, networking and travel activities for participants. This includes weekly dinners and weekend trips to fit around participants’ schedules. Our local knowledge helps students discover hidden gems and visit sites on a student budget.
PAGODA PORTAL
Pagoda Projects have developed a bespoke Pagoda Portal which allows users to engage, share and communicate with each other whilst maintaining a high level of privacy.
NAVIGATION
DESTINATION
MEXICO CITY
Mexico City is the capital and largest city of Mexico. The city homes 21 million people and stretches across 200 kilometers/120 miles. What began as the home of the Aztecs has now grown to become one of the most productive urban areas in the world. The city has become known for its colonial architecture, spicy delicacies and rich cultural heritage.
NAVIGATION
FAQ’s
What funding am I eligible for?
Successful applicants are entitled to partial funding from the Education New Zealand’s Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Latin America Funding to cover the cost of the programme. Your university will confirm your eligibility and associated costs with regards to taking part in the programme.
What happens if the programmes are cancelled due to COVID-related restrictions?
Pagoda Projects will be following government travel advice and we will keep you updated should any restriction changes affect your programme. In the event of a programme cancelation, your deposit and any other programme financial contribution will be refunded in full**.
What are the internships I can choose from?
Scholarship awardees can discuss positions with our team. However, you can only choose one company to proceed your internship with after a successful interview with your potential host.
What is the refundable deposit for and how much is it?
The deposit is $200 NZD and it is a refundable sum of money which guarantees your place on our programme and covers your accommodation deposit. If your accommodation is left in the same standard as it is found, your deposit will be refunded within 6 weeks after your internship programme. See our Terms & Conditions for more details.
What vaccinations will I need to travel?
Vaccinations will depend on the relevant government and travel advice at the time.
Pagoda Projects will direct you to your GP for vaccine recommendations and COVID-related vaccine advice. We will also run a detailed pre-departure session which will cover this and other key information.
What visa will I need for the programme?
Pagoda Projects will be here to support you throughout the entire process, including the visa application. The visa application guidance will be covered as part of the pre-departure session.
IMPORTANT: To avoid any complications with the visa process, your passport must be in date for more than 12 months from your programme start date, i.e. if your programme start date is 20/06/2022, your passport expiry date cannot be any date before the 21/06/2023.
What is Pagoda's previous experience with delivering internship programmes overseas?
Established in 2007, Pagoda Projects have over a decade’s worth of experience in successfully delivering international programmes on behalf of governmental bodies and universities worldwide.
Our internship and employability programmes have spanned over 20 destinations worldwide, and have welcomed over 4000 students and counting. We are confident in our team’s ability to deliver meaningful career developing opportunities to prepare the next generation of global graduates!
When will I have my summer internship confirmed by?
We aim for all scholarship awardees to have their internship host companies confirmed by the end of October. The time it takes to secure a host company will depend on the engagement of the participant and availability of the respective supervisor(s) for your preferred positions.
How does the internship placement process work?
We will give preference to applicants who have a demonstrable interest in the programme theme, as well as being flexible in terms of the nature of the internship (as it isn’t always possible to find an exact match when it comes to hosts and tasks).
Pagoda Projects will be here to support you throughout the entire application process to our host companies. We will keep you updated regularly and provide guidance each step of the way.
What other costs should I budget for?
Accommodation costs are covered by the programme funding. However, there are daily costs you should budget for, including food, drink, social events and transport.
It may be useful to refer to our blogs about budgeting in our various destinations, found here: https://pagodaprojects.com/cost-of-living
Use this link to find out the current daily exchange rates: https://www.xe.com/currency/nzd-new-zealand-dollar/
Are the internships paid?
Our short-term internships (less than 12 weeks) are unpaid; however, our short-term internship programmes are university-funded where the cost of Pagoda supporting you throughout the process and in-country, along with your accommodation is typically paid for on behalf of Pagoda participants.
What insurance will be required?
Fully comprehensive travel and medical insurance will be provided either by Pagoda or your University. This is subject to review depending on the latest government travel advice, but no student completing any Pagoda programme will be able to take part without the appropriate insurance.
ANY QUESTIONS?
APPLY NOW
APPLICATION DEADLINE – 30TH SEPTEMBER 2022 – FOR BOTH THE PAGODA APPLICATION AND THE MASSEY APPLICATION