Public Relations & Media Specialist

Company Description AfriGenetry Link (AGL) is a movement-driven organization dedicated to restoring identity, connection, and health for Africans and the global African diaspora through ethical DNA testing, education, and community-centered initiatives. AGL addresses the historical and ongoing impacts of the transatlantic slave trade by helping individuals reconnect with their ancestral roots and relatives across the African continent. Through free community DNA pop-up events, Campus Identity & Reconnection Tours, DNA on Wheels, and genetic literacy programs, AGL expands access to DNA testing for underserved African communities. By increasing African representation in genomic data, the organization supports more accurate health research, improved early detection of inherited conditions, and more equitable healthcare outcomes. AGL envisions a world where every person of African descent can trace their roots, understand their health, and feel fully connected.

Role Description: The Volunteer Public Relations & Media Specialist will support AfriGenetry Link by developing and executing communication strategies that amplify the organization’s mission, programs, and impact. This remote volunteer role involves drafting press releases, preparing media kits, and coordinating outreach to journalists, bloggers, and relevant media outlets. The specialist will manage media inquiries, support interview scheduling, and maintain relationships with key media contacts. Day-to-day tasks may include crafting stories and talking points, monitoring media coverage, collaborating with team members on campaign messaging, and ensuring consistent brand voice across communications. The role also involves helping to plan and promote events, digital campaigns, and community initiatives that highlight AGL’s work in reconnecting the African diaspora.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess skills in Public Relations and Media Relations to build, maintain, and grow relationships with media outlets and partners.
• Candidates should possess skills in Press Releases and Strategic Communications to craft clear, compelling messages and coordinate outreach campaigns.
• Identify relevant journalists, reporters, bloggers, podcasters, publications, radio programs, television outlets, and digital media platforms.
• Build and maintain targeted media contact lists across local, national, African, diaspora, health, science, genealogy, nonprofit, and community media.
• Develop and send compelling media pitches around AGL programs, events, initiatives, experts, and organizational stories.
• Draft press releases, media advisories, story pitches, talking points, media briefs, and other PR materials.
• Pitch AGL leaders and subject matter experts for interviews, podcasts, articles, panels, and other media opportunities.
• Identify timely news angles and opportunities where AGL can contribute expertise or perspective.
• Candidates should possess strong Communication skills, including the ability to present complex information in an accessible language for diverse audiences.
• Experience with social media management, digital storytelling, or content creation is beneficial.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting, collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team, and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Previous experience in nonprofit communications, advocacy, or health-related initiatives is an advantage but not required.