Internship Project: Students Contribute to Sundsvall’s Attractiveness
Five weeks go by quickly—at least according to business students Anas Alhanouti and Lukas Lindbäck, who recently completed their internship at the communications department of Sundsvall Municipality.
Their tasks were both varied and challenging. They worked on strategies and marketing plans linked to the SAM project (Strengthened Attractiveness and Reception Capacity), which aims to boost talent attraction in the High Coast and Sundsvall region. They also contributed to the Destination Sundsvall platform and even joined a film shoot. Another part of their assignment involved mapping the history of Gärdehov Arena.
“It was a real detective job and super exciting. By digging through historical sources at the library, we uncovered the story of the place. This work will be part of the storytelling used to enhance the site’s future appeal,” says Lukas.
“Getting to participate in the innovation sprints organized by the SAM project was a real highlight,” says Anas. He explains that the sprints led to a prototype for an exhibition booth that will be used in the region’s ongoing efforts to attract and welcome new students and residents.
Lukas and Anas had different tasks during the internship but found it beneficial to be placed at the same site, as they could exchange ideas and support each other throughout the period.
Johanna Åkerlund, communications strategist at the municipality, was their internship supervisor.
“We host a group of interns every year, and it’s always rewarding. They help us develop ideas and projects that we might not have time for in our daily work, while also bringing fresh insights and perspectives to our organization. It’s always valuable to get an outside view of what we do—it strengthens both our work and the department as a whole.”
“It also feels important to support students like Lukas and Anas in their education. Hopefully, this is one way we can contribute to strengthening the region’s future talent pool.”
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