The last year marked a new chapter in my professional journey. I packed my life into a suitcase and headed to a city ten times the size of my hometown, where I embarked on a six-month Journalism and Marketing internship with ICAO. The decision to move to Montreál, Canada, on the other side of the world, hit when I arrived at work for my first day. I joined the Product Management Unit under the Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau at ICAO’s headquarters.
Before I started with ICAO, the aviation industry was largely foreign to me. My only interaction was as a consumer, passing through airport security and boarding planes to safely get to my desired location. Thankfully, with the help of my team, I was brought up to speed on the history, current affairs, terminology, and outlook for the sector.
This included its climate impact. I was particularly struck by the industry’s commitment to the long-term global aspirational goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Through the efforts of those around me and plenty of reading of the extensive literature available through ICAO, it was a learning curve I was thrilled to be on. I developed a much broader knowledge and appreciation for those working in this field.
Throughout my six months, I found myself immersed in all things ICAO and somewhat in disbelief that I had the privilege of working for an agency of the United Nations I worked on a variety of projects that challenged and stretched me. I worked alongside skilled professionals who supported the organization’s strategic objectives by expanding ICAO’s brand awareness and publishing important information via media channels.
One of the highlights of my time with ICAO was working closely with the senior editor of this blog platform. Under her guidance, I explored topics ranging from measures to address aircraft engine emissions to unmanned aviation in the Asia-Pacific region. Writing on various topics, particularly those I was less familiar with, helped me to develop my writing, researching, and editing skills.
Alongside working with editor, I provided support to the Head of Marketing and marketing specialists. Collaborating with the marketing team enabled me to explore my creative side. I crafted marketing campaigns for a variety of events, training, and products. From creating static visuals to animated social media content, I discovered a passion for art that I hadn’t previously explored.
ICAO fueled this passion by allowing me to work with graphic designers who took me under their wings to teach me the nuances of Photoshop and Illustrator. From then on, I was away, creating and updating thumbnails for ICAO TV and populating content onto ICAO’s event app.
The journey from Christchurch, New Zealand, to Canada has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the bustling offices of ICAO to the charming streets of Montreál, here are my key takeaways:
- Having a mentor matters, and I was fortunate to have several. ICAO actively fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation. Despite the complex nature of the work and their own schedules, my colleagues were always approachable and supportive. Overcoming challenges became a shared endeavor, and the emphasis on teamwork made every obstacle a valuable learning opportunity.
- Montreál city is beautiful and vibrant and may have ruined all other cities for me. With its rich blend of cultures and architecture, it was an idyllic backdrop for an internship. Getting lost and exploring new eateries, markets, and parks meant immersing myself in the local environment was a daily pleasure.
- Being adaptable, proactive, and taking the initiative is rewarded with interesting work. I was always willing to take on new challenges, and the team dynamic welcomed and encouraged new ideas and a willingness to collaborate and contribute.
- I am reminded of he tāngata, the Māori proverb for “it is people.” My colleagues became mentors and friends. From casual coffee catchups, ice hockey games, and team bonding sessions to engaging discussions in team meetings, in the end, it is always the people that matter most.
Beyond the projects and professional growth, I have treasured the time spent with my team the most. Moving abroad alone at a young age meant my team became my second family. Working alongside a group from diverse backgrounds with a wealth of knowledge created an environment where I felt comfortable and respected. My time with my team has been invaluable professionally, but their kindness, patience and generosity toward my ongoing development have been special.
I leave with a newfound appreciation for the varied work of the agencies of the United Nations, the challenges, opportunities and resolve within the aviation sector, and an understanding of what a nurturing work environment looks and feels like. I have gained a lifetime of memories, and I hope friends.
My gratitude extends beyond my immediate team to all of ICAO for their support and friendship. You have all enriched my time here and will always hold a special place in my heart. Thanks to you, I am wiser, more astute, well-read, and far more of a coffee and food connoisseur.
It was bittersweet when my internship with ICAO came to an end, but my journey is just the beginning. The lessons learned and friendships forged will remain invaluable assets as I transition into my next adventure with the Australian Government.
