Blue Dhow is a mission-driven organization dedicated to driving inclusive development and sustainable growth through effective and efficient resource mobilization and capital planning. We seek talented, curious, and impact-oriented individuals who share our commitment to innovation and transformation.
As part of our current opportunities, the Blue Lantern Program offers a dynamic entry point for emerging professionals to engage directly with our work—gaining hands-on experience while contributing to initiatives that build opportunities and strengthen communities. Working with us means becoming part of a transformative vision shaping Africa’s future.
Blue Lantern Programme
The Blue Lantern Program is The Blue Dhow’s flagship internship and mentorship initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of African thinkers, analysts, and leaders. Rooted in our mission to drive transformative growth across East Africa, the program offers a unique blend of hands-on professional experience, structured learning, and immersive exposure to both business and lifestyle ecosystems that define the Blue Dhow network.
Through active participation in core initiatives such as Blue Insights and Project 100, Blue Lanterns directly contribute to high-impact research, data analysis, and strategic content development. Simultaneously, the program goes beyond the traditional internship model by providing experiential learning through our sister organization, the Sailing Club of Uganda. Every Saturday, interns actively engage in sailing activities, including sailing sessions, race coordination, and recording results, swimming, and general event support. They also participate in social interactions and networking within the club environment, while producing structured reports that capture insights, experiences, and outcomes from these activities.
Designed for ambitious and curious individuals from diverse academic backgrounds, the Blue Lantern Program challenges participants to think critically, work independently, and communicate effectively across different audiences. It is more than an internship—it is a platform for growth, discovery, and meaningful contribution to Africa’s evolving narrative.
As part of our current opportunities, the Blue Lantern Program offers a dynamic entry point for emerging professionals to engage directly with our work—gaining hands-on experience while contributing to initiatives that build opportunities and strengthen communities. Working with us means becoming part of a transformative vision shaping Africa’s future.
Job Roles
Business Analyst: This role supports project teams with data analysis and strategic insights. Through conducting market and operational research, preparing financial and performance reports, and assisting in developing project recommendations, among other tasks. For consideration, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field paired with strong analytical skills, innovation, and excellent English communication.
Project Manager: This role leads client projects from planning through implementation; this is done through defining project scope and deliverables, coordinating team tasks, monitoring progress, and adjusting plans; liaising with stakeholders. This position will require an Advanced degree (e.g., MBA or sectoral), 5+ years of project management experience, and strong leadership and organizational skills.
Partnerships Coordinator: This role cultivates and manages strategic partnerships by identifying potential partners (NGOs, companies, funders); drafting collaboration proposals; coordinating joint initiatives; and maintaining partner relations as the major roles. To qualify for this position, one requires a Bachelor’s degree or higher; experience in stakeholder engagement or business development, and excellent interpersonal skills.
Operations Officer: This role ensures smooth administrative and operational support through managing office logistics and procurement; assisting with HR and finance processes; supporting travel and event planning, etc. To qualify for this position, a degree in business or a related field, 2+ years in admin/operations, and a detail-oriented, proactive approach are required.
Partnership Opportunities
Business Development Partnerships: Collaborations with local enterprises to scale impact. Partners provide field access and co-funding; Blue Dhow supplies expertise and training.
Community Organization Alliances: Working with NGOs and producer groups to leverage local knowledge for program rollout; partners contribute outreach and networks. Engagement often involves joint grants and capacity building
Innovation Funds and Investors: Engaging impact investors and foundations to launch new initiatives. Partners may co-invest and share technical input; Blue Dhow provides strategic design and management. This mirrors VentureBuilder‑type blended finance vehicles.
Academic/Research Collaborations: Partnering with universities or think tanks for research-driven projects. Partners lend subject-matter expertise; Blue Dhow integrates findings into programs, ensuring knowledge is put to use most efficiently.
