ABOUT THE INTERNSHIP

Application Deadline: Sunday, August 23, 2026
Interviews: August 24-September 2, 2026
Offer Notifications: Friday, September 4, 2026
Internship Duration: September 8–November 13, 2026 (10 weeks)

Weekly Hours:
Typically 5–10 hours per week, with additional hours during the Festival weeks on O’ahu (Oct 22 – Nov 1 at Consolidated Theatres Kahala and Nov 3 – Nov 5 at Consolidated Kapolei)

ELIGIBILITY
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Currently enrolled at a Hawai‘i college or university
  • Maintains a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • Available to participate in-person during the internship period

Love movies? Curious about film and the power of the arts to bring communities together? An internship with the Hawai‘i International Film Festival (HIFF) offers a hands-on opportunity to gain valuable professional experience.

Now celebrating its 46th year, HIFF has championed independent cinema, emerging filmmakers, and cultural exchange through film. Based in Kaimukī, Honolulu, HIFF is a nonprofit arts organization and the only statewide film festival in the United States. HIFF is also the world’s only Academy Award®–qualifying festival dedicated to spotlighting Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander voices.

As an intern, you’ll gain a behind-the-scenes look at how a nonprofit arts organization operates—from film programming and education initiatives to community screenings, special events, and industry programs. You’ll collaborate with HIFF staff and engage with filmmakers, patrons, students, and community partners, gaining firsthand experience across a range of arts and cultural programs.

We’re looking for motivated and collaborative individuals who are excited to learn, contribute, and help create meaningful experiences through the arts. If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! 

HIFF provides mentorship, hands-on experience, and opportunities to build valuable professional skills while contributing to the festival’s mission and programs. As this is an unpaid position, students are encouraged to explore opportunities to earn volunteer hours or academic credit through their school or institution.

For any questions, email [email protected]. To apply, please complete this application by August 23.