About Babel Institute

Babel Institute is an independent, nonpartisan public policy think tank dedicated to advancing practical policy solutions to the political, economic, and social challenges facing young people around the world. Our work spans research, youth programming, and public engagement across the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa.

Verity Voices Journal is the publishing arm of Babel Institute and a youth-centered platform for public commentary and storytelling. The journal is scheduled to launch on March 23, 2026 and will feature original articles, reports , interviews, and video explainers that examine policy issues affecting young people, including migration, climate change, education reform, youth justice, and affordable housing.

At Verity, we connect research with lived experience. Contributors are expected to ground their work in facts, data, and reporting, while also drawing from interviews, observation, and first-hand perspectives. The goal is to produce writing that is clear, credible, and accessible to a general audience, without sacrificing accuracy or substance.

Position Overview

The Youth Journalism Program provides students with hands-on experience developing strong journalistic writing and reporting skills. Participants learn how to translate complex issues into clear language, meet editorial standards, and contribute meaningfully to public policy conversations.

The Youth Journalist will contribute articles and digital content to Verity Voices Journal during a three-month term. This role is designed for students interested in journalism, media, public affairs, or storytelling, and who want practical experience producing public-facing work.

Responsibilities

• Produce articles, explainers, interviews, and commentary focused on youth-relevant policy issues for Verity Voices Journal.

• Conduct interviews with students, professors, and practitioners when appropriate.

• Stay current on news and policy developments, and pitch timely story ideas focused on issues affecting young people.

• Revise and edit work based on editorial feedback and publication standards.

• Meet agreed-upon deadlines and content expectations throughout the term.

Qualifications

• Current undergraduate or first-year graduate student enrolled at an accredited U.S. college or university.

• Strong writing skills and the ability to communicate ideas clearly to a general audience.

• Interest in journalism, public policy, global affairs, or youth issues.

• Experience researching topics, evaluating sources, and verifying facts.

• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and follow editorial guidance.

• Prior writing, media, or journalism experience is preferred but not required.

All applicants must be authorized to participate in a stipend-based program in the United States. Babel Institute does not sponsor visas.

Compensation

This position is compensated through a fixed stipend of three thousand dollars ($3,000) for the full three-month term, paid in monthly installments of one thousand dollars ($1,000). This is not an hourly wage position.

Time Commitment

The expected time commitment is approximately 8 to 10 hours per week. Scheduling is flexible and designed to accommodate academic commitments.

Benefits and Learning Outcomes

• Experience contributing articles and digital content to Verity Voices Journal.

• Opportunities to research, write, and revise articles on public policy issues affecting young people.

• Editorial guidance throughout the drafting and revision process.

• Writing samples suitable for academic or professional use.

• Exposure to the early operations of a nonprofit public policy publication.

How to Apply

Submit your résumé (CV), one writing sample, and a brief statement of interest (150–200 words) to contact@babelinstitute.us with the subject line:

Youth Journalist – Spring 2026 – [Your Name]

Application Timeline

• Applications will close on Monday, February 23, 2026.

• Candidates whose qualifications best align with the role will be contacted beginning February 27, 2026.

• The anticipated start date is March 11, 2026.

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, or veteran status.