Press

25th September 2024 

First successful applicant of the Charles Colvington Foundation reflects on enriching experience with the UN in Bangkok 

The Charles Colvington Foundation is pleased to share the success of the first recipient of the Charles Colvington Trust, Finn Shimmin, who had the experience of a lifetime as a United Nations intern in Bangkok 

Finn Shimmin, an Economics graduate, has returned from a transformative six-month internship at the United Nations ESCAP in Bangkok.  Finn spent six months in Bangkok on a United Nations internship with the Space Application Section, Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction Division. His internship was part-funded by the Charles Colvington Trust, a bequest from Mr and Mrs Charles Colvington, set up in 2019, supporting post-graduate students from the Isle of Man to undertake an internship at the United Nations. 

Finn’s experience highlights the Colvington’s commitment to supporting Manx students pursuing international opportunities. He was the first recipient of funding since the Trust moved from being administered within the United Nations Association, Isle of Man to a standalone Foundation. Former Trustee and Chair of UNAIOM, Chris Thomas said: 

“I am delighted that funds from the generous bequest from Mr and Mrs Charles Colvington have been used to part fund Finn’s fulfilling opportunity. It’s gratifying to read that the Foundation is able to offer assistance for such a positive experience and I am confident that under the new structure, many more young people will be able to benefit from similar opportunities.”  

Through his internship, Finn was working in a global organisation but in a specialist area. He gained invaluable experience of learning the importance of pushing personal boundaries and challenging yourself. He said about his experience: “The highlight of my internship was undoubtedly the friendships I made. The opportunity to connect with talented individuals from around the world and immerse myself in a new culture was invaluable. It’s been a profound learning experience, both professionally and personally.” 

By providing funding to support UN internships, the Charles Colvington Foundation aims to support educational and professional development opportunities for Manx students. Finn said in support of these ideals;  

“The world of tomorrow will not be determined by climate accords, security councils, or trade agreements alone. It will be shaped by how well we understand and respect one another today, and how we pass on our knowledge of science, culture, and ethics for future generations to build upon.” 

For anyone interested in a United Intern internship, Finn has broken down the steps from researching opportunities, applying to the United Nations and the process of applying for funding through the Charles Colvington Foundation on his blog post here: http://www.charlescolvingtonfoundation.com/news 

Finn would encourage anyone considering applying for a United Nations Internship to take the opportunity and apply: “If you're hesitating, just go for it.”