Mariama Fofana Former Africa Agenda intern, Mariama Fofana, during a study abroad trip to Paris, France. 2025
I had the privilege of an internship at Africa Agenda from March to December 2021. This was my very first internship before graduating from the Metropolitan State University of Denver. Those early experiences became the foundation for everything that came later on my academic and professional paths.
After my internship, I went on to write for the American Red Cross Colorado Chapter, serve as a Media and Communications Response Volunteer with the Peace Corps in Togo, and interned for a U.S. State Representative in Washington, D.C. I am currently completing a master’s degree in international and Intercultural Communication with a concentration in Humanitarian Intervention and Development at American University in D.C.
My studies have focused on the intersections of communication, global policy, culture, and humanitarian systems. As I prepare to graduate in May, I am working at the United Nations Foundation as a Communications and Project Coordinator for the OA Alliance.
Looking back, Africa Agenda taught me that communicating is not just about content but about a real connection to the people and the cause. It is about shaping narratives that matter.
To Georges Bamu at Africa Agenda, thank you for trusting a young student with big ambitions and little experience. The foundation you provided continues to shape my work today. And to current interns and young professionals, you never know which opportunity will change the course of your life. Sometimes, it begins with drafting your very first post.
