Best Anime Stores in Singapore for the True Otaku

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of anime culture! Derived from a thought-provoking essay by Akio Nakamori in Manga Burikko back in 1983, the term “otaku” encompasses a deep passion for anime, manga, video games, and technology.

The widespread popularity of anime has paved the way for a multitude of adaptations that extend beyond animated series. From live-action films to video games, music, and a diverse range of merchandise, the influence of anime knows no bounds. True anime enthusiasts find joy in collecting intricately detailed figures of their beloved characters and proudly incorporating anime-themed apparel and accessories into their personal fashion statements.

In the bustling streets of Singapore, you’ll find an abundance of stores offering a treasure trove of anime merchandise. To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of must-visit destinations that cater to all your anime needs. Whether you’re seeking the latest releases or nostalgic classics, these stores are sure to satisfy your cravings for the finest anime collectibles.

Let the allure of Singapore’s anime scene captivate you as you discover these six hidden gems.

#1: OTAKU HOUSE

Otaku House is one of the novelties stores that anime fans and enthusiasts in Singapore frequently visit. With three Otaku House branches across the city-state, you can shop for cosplay costumes and accessories, Japanese novelty items, and anime memorabilia in Bugis Junction, Suntec City, and Plaza Singapura.

Founded in 2006, Otaku House started as a small pushcart kiosk at Orchard Cineleisure. This anime store in Singapore is one of the first shops to supply ready-to-wear cosplay clothes for cosplayers in the city-state. They began their business at a time when cosplay outfits were not quite as popular as they are now.

Image Credits: facebook.com/otakuhouse

Aside from cosplay costumes, other exciting items you can score from Otaku House are action figures, jigsaw puzzles, posters, stationery, phone cases, shirts, pillows, plushies, and Lego-inspired bricks.

Location: Otaku House, 3 Temasek Blvd, #02-475

#2: LA TENDO

La Tendo is an anime and games retail store in Singapore that specializes in almost all types of Japanese-inspired collectibles like toys, books, accessories, apparel, and the like.

La Tendo’s toy figures come in a set of pre-painted statues, are very easy to assemble, and contain removable parts to customize the look of the character. They also sell fashion dolls in various shapes and sizes, complete with clothes, body parts, and accessories, so you can create your own style and add some personal touches.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Latendo

Aside from plushies and figures, the shop also has calendars featuring your favorite anime series such as Jujutsu Kaisen, Black Clover, and Demon Slayer. For fans of “Genshin Impact,” you should check out their collection of character badges, smartphone stands, plush charms, and keychains.

Location: La Tendo, 3 Temasek Blvd, #03-354

#3: PIKKU PLAY

Pikku Play is a small home-based business that has partnered with some of the leading anime distributors including Good Smile Company, Ichiban Kuji, Gachapon, Furyu Corporation, MegaHouse, and Medialink.

It offers affordable yet quality toys for customers who love to collect anime merchandise as their hobby. Just like other anime stores, it sells action figures, trading cards, convertible deck boxes, candy toys, and more in-stock items.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Pikkuplay

Location: Pikku Play, 1 Sophia Road (Peace Centre) #01-30

#4: SEIMON-CHO

Founded in 2007, Seimon-Cho is known for selling authentic Sanrio characters from Japan like Hello Kitty, Gudetama, My Melody, and Rilakkuma, among others.

Aside from their kawaii items, this shop in Singapore also has anime merchandise featuring famous characters from Demon Slayer, Pokemon, One Piece, Studio Ghibli, and more. Other gift items you can find at Seimon-Cho are stationery, towels, bags, kitchenware, figures, and socks.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Seimon.Cho

Seimon-Cho can be found in the IMM Building and Plaza Singapura.

Location: Seimon-Cho, 68 Orchard Rd, #03-03 Plaza Singapura

#5: SIMPLY TOYS

Simply Toys is the official distributor of Funko and Q posket, which creates movie thematic toys, statues, and collectibles.

Simply Toys brings Dragon Ball, Cardcaptor Sakura, Naruto, Demon Slayer, and more Q posket anime characters to its fans.

Image Credits: facebook.com/SimplyToys

Location: 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-32/33, Singapore 098585

#6: KINOKUNIYA SINGAPORE

If you’re a book lover in Singapore, then you’ve probably heard of Kinokuniya – the one-stop shop for all your reading needs. But did you know that they also have a massive collection of manga?

Image Credits: facebook.com/KinokuniyaSingaporeWeb

That’s right! Nestled in the heart of Ngee Ann City lies a manga paradise, with shelves upon shelves of manga titles in both English and Japanese. From the action-packed adventures of Naruto and One Piece to lesser-known gems, Kinokuniya has it all.

Location: 391 Orchard Road 04 – 20 / 20A / 20B / 20C / 21 Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872

Sources: 1 & 2

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Singapore’s Popularity Soars as Taylor Swift & Coldplay Attract Fans from Southeast Asia

With Coldplay scheduled to perform at Singapore’s National Stadium from January 23 to January 27, 2024, and Taylor Swift set to have six shows from March 2 to 4 as well as 7 to 9, 2024 fans are eagerly seeking tickets.

The popularity of Taylor Swift and Coldplay concerts are attracting travelers to Singapore. However, limited availability has sparked disappointment among locals, who believe the concerts should prioritize Singaporeans.

POPULARITY OF TAYLOR SWIFT AND COLDPLAY CONCERTS ATTRACTS TRAVELERS TO SINGAPORE

The concerts of both Coldplay and Taylor Swift are drawing in foreign visitors from the Southeast Asia region to Singapore. Coldplay has scheduled shows at Singapore’s National Stadium from January 23 to January 27, 2024.

Meanwhile, Taylor Swift will be performing six shows from March 2 to 4 and March 7 to 9, 2024 at the National Stadium, situated in Singapore’s central Kallang area. With a maximum capacity of 55,000, there are abundant opportunities to catch her performance during her only stop in Southeast Asia.

However, due to limited availability, many individuals have expressed their disappointment at having to compete with foreign fans for tickets. Some argue that the concert should primarily cater to Singaporeans since it is being held in Singapore.

RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGNERS

Associate Professor Terence Ho, a practitioner at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, highlights the significant benefits that foreign demand for concert tickets brings to Singapore’s tourism industry. Hotels, food and beverage outlets, and other attractions all reap the rewards. Professor Ho emphasizes that implementing restrictions on foreign tickets could damage Singapore’s reputation as an events hub and reduce its appeal to top performers in the future.

PURCHASING TICKETS FOR TAYLOR SWIFT’S ERAS TOUR IN SINGAPORE

Ticketmaster Singapore sells tickets on a first-come, first-served basis until inventory lasts. Like other platforms, you will receive a one-time password (OTP) on your phone for verification. However, a Singapore SIM card is not required.

Interestingly, fans of Taylor Swift are rushing to sign up for UOB credit and debit cards following the announcement that pre-sale tickets for her 2024 show will exclusively be available to UOB cardholders. Within just 30 minutes of the concert promoter’s announcement, a Telegram channel was created to guide fans on obtaining these cards. Some fans even plan to visit bank branches to expedite the card application process.

Ms. Jacquelyn Tan, the head of group personal financial services at UOB, acknowledges the tremendous interest in Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert, given her international stature and the fact that Singapore is her only stop in Southeast Asia for the Eras Tour. UOB cardholders in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam will enjoy privileged access to the pre-sale and reserved ticket allotment during general sales. Pre-sale tickets for UOB cardholders will be available from July 5, with general sales on Ticketmaster commencing on July 7.

In contrast, fans have already purchased over 300,000 tickets for Coldplay’s concerts. Coldplay plans to release a limited number of cheaper “Infinity Tickets” at a later date, priced at approximately $20 each. These tickets will only be sold in pairs, with a maximum of two tickets per buyer.

TICKET RESELLING

Some individuals who managed to secure Coldplay tickets have resorted to reselling them on platforms such as Carousell and Viagogo. On Carousell, a seller is demanding $10,000 for an ultimate Music Of The Spheres World Tour experience ticket, which originally retailed for $1,098 on Ticketmaster. The seller mentioned receiving three offers within 15 hours, with the highest offer reaching $9,000. However, the seller will not sell the ticket until someone meets the asking price. More than 600 sellers have listed Coldplay concert tickets at prices twice or more than the original cost.

In Malaysia, scalpers demanded RM43,000 (S$12,600) for Coldplay concert tickets in Kuala Lumpur, while the original prices ranged from RM228 to RM3,088. It’s important to note that scalping activities, where tickets are purchased at retail prices and resold at significantly higher prices, are not illegal in Singapore.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Nonetheless, the police have warned against the risks of purchasing illegitimate or non-existent tickets. Concert ticket scams have resulted in music fans losing approximately $170,000 as of March 2023.

Thus, UOB emphasizes that tickets purchased by their cardholders are strictly for personal use and should not be resold.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Latest WFH internships posted from 26 to 29 June 2023

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Still looking for a remote internship post-COVID?

Well, we don’t blame you.

The ability to work from home, without the need to chiong to the office every day and tahan long MRT rides or jam-packed buses can be very shiok.

So to make your search a little easier, allow us to introduce to you some available opportunities this week.

#1: Euforia Collective – Creative Intern

Website: euforiacollective.com.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $500 – 800 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing a degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
  • Strong passion for content creation, storytelling, and digital marketing.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail.
  • Proficiency in using various content creation tools and platforms, such as Adobe Creative Suite (especially Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop & Premiere Pro)
  • Strong understanding of social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok) and their respective best practices.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and adapt to fast-paced work demands.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist in the development and implementation of content strategies across multiple channels, including social media, websites, blogs, and email campaigns.
  • Collaborate with the Content Creation Department team to brainstorm and generate innovative ideas for content creation.
  • Conduct thorough research on industry trends, target audiences, and competitor analysis to inform content development.
  • Create engaging and visually appealing content, such as blog posts, social media posts, videos, infographics, and other multimedia assets.
  • Assist in managing content calendars, ensuring timely delivery of content across various platforms.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your application to [email protected].

#2: TechFin Consulting – Business Development Intern (Web 3 / Fintech)

 

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Website: techfinconsulting.org

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,300 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Excellent spoken and written skills in English
  • Work well in a fast-paced environment
  • Proficient and comfortable with Zoom, Figma, and digital tools
  • Independent, self-directed, and able to work without supervision
  • Able to multi-task and prioritize with a good problem-solving attitude
  • Relevant experience in Business Development would be an advantage
  • Personal laptop required for work
  • Minimum 3 months commitment
Key Responsibilities
  • Prospecting new businesses & speaking to new leads 
  • Coordinate and liaise with current partners and speak to new partners.
  • Pitching and presenting the various product offerings to new business opportunities and existing leads.
  • Execute programs operations during the commencement of plans
  • Researching on Web 3.0, AI, FinTech, Tech, and InsurTech
  • Providing support to new inquiries
  • Explore and reach out to new audiences through different channels
  • Collaborate with the marketing side to ideate collaterals for effective messaging to grow the business
  • Provide onsite support at events and manage meetings with partners
  • Monthly remuneration with a potential variable performance bonus during the Internship
  • Flexible working arrangement work from home/office (dependent on event schedule)
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your application to [email protected]. 

#3: AngelHack (Under TribeX) – Community Operations Intern

 

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Website: angelhack.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • You are available for at least 3 months full-time or 6 months full/part-time starting from August 2023.
  • Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident.
  • Based in Singapore.
  • Interest in and high capacity for numbers-based tasks and qualitative research.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with a flair for storytelling and creating narratives out of numbers. If you did/are doing Literature, English, and/or sociological sciences, we’d love to speak to you!
  • Interest and some involvement in the tech space, but you don’t have to be studying tech. Degree-agnostic.
  • Very good at multitasking, but also at prioritizing the initiatives and tasks that need to be done. There are always many problems to solve: we want to see what problems you think need to be solved first.
  • Eager to work in a largely-remote, cross-functional setting and not afraid to get your hands dirty with the running of actual projects and community initiatives (we still have a once-a-week face-to-face meeting though, but other meetings are more flexible).
Key Responsibilities
  • Primary and secondary market/community research: you’ll be in a constant, high-touch environment, and will be trained to be able to navigate social cues and read between the lines to discern community needs and wants. You will be exposed to the communities to gain primary research, but your main role is to find quantitative research that can be used, as well as try to quantify more qualitative points.
  • Long-term strategy planning for multiple demographics: you’ll be working with the current community managers to plan and iterate roadmaps for the community and work closely with the other departments to drive the process. You will be responsible for generating reports, and visual aids, pulling out metrics, and creating frameworks on multiple tools like Notion. You will also be expected to prove your case for certain initiatives with data.
  • Brainstorming and execution: you’ll learn to be able to rapidly test your theories and collect responses, very often on the spot, and to record the results in a manner that is usable by the rest of the team. They love new ideas, so you’re encouraged to just chime in!
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Yan Ning via this link.

#4: Lucror Analytics Pte Ltd – Sustainable Finance (ESG) Intern

lucroranalytics.com

Website: lucroranalytics.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Very strong attention to detail, a meticulous work attitude, and exceptional diligence
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Robust Microsoft Office skills, with an emphasis on Excel 
  • Genuine interest in the position and commitment to getting the job done
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist the ESG research team in ESG research report writing and ESG data mining
  • Provide ad-hoc support to the research team
  • Maintain internal databases and automate/optimize queries (mainly in Excel)
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Jie Lin via this link.

#5: Peakflo Pte Ltd – Data Science Internship

Website: peakflo.co

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,800 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience running or even uptraining the LLM models
  • Sound knowledge of relational, NoSQL database concepts, data modeling/architecture, and SQL
  • Education in Analytics, Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related fields
  • Desire to build AI models applied to finance
Key Responsibilities
  • Building products using LLM models and financial data;
  • Build predictive AI models based on financial and payment data collected by the platform.
  • Work directly with the CTO & Founder to help shape the product.
  • Provide horizontal, organizational-wide visibility through metric measurements and insights.
  • Uphold best practices concerning change management, documentation, and data protocols
  • Identify system and application metrics, develop dashboards, and set up alerts for metrics and thresholds
  • Participate in technical and product discussions, code reviews, and on-call support activities
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your application to [email protected]. 

Note: We’ve selected these internships based on the “remote” tag, but some positions may still require some face-to-face time. Please contact the employer directly for more deets.

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Want to aid cancer research and patient support in Singapore? Here’s how

FFC 2023

So I was browsing through the internet and I stumbled upon this amazing event—an incredible charity fashion show that combines fashion and cancer advocacy.

I thought you might be interested too if you’re into cancer research and patient support.

So who’s behind all this?

Ong Bee Yan.

I think I wrote an article about her collaboration with YACHT 21 last year.

Anyhow, she was inspired by her own experiences of heartbreak and hope and wanted to spread positivity to those affected by cancer in Singapore, so she organized this event called Fashion For Cancer (FFC 2023).

So, what’s FFC 2023 all about?

FFC 2023 is where cancer survivors become runway models, showing off their strength and victory.

From the young peeps, like 14, to the mature folks, like 59, these people come from all over, showing that cancer can happen to anyone, no matter what age, race, or gender.

The selection process is inclusive; all survivors from different backgrounds get a chance to share their unique stories on the runway.

So who’s going on stage?

The FFC Charity Fashion Show will see 16 cancer survivors becoming runway models. They will don fashion numbers from In Good Company, Charles & Keith, and Moss & Lupine.

Some familiar names like Mediacorp actress Pan Ling Ling will be part of the show.

Photographer-filmmaker Nicky Loh, will also walk the runway and direct the video with Chia Rong Liang, Ong’s son. This is part of his effort to show his appreciation and support for the cancer community.

“I think being onstage with the other cancer survivors and seeing us all glowing and growing strong after cancer is a very powerful thing.”

Arun Rosiah, the first runner-up of Manhunt Singapore 2021/2022, and also a colorectal cancer survivor, sees the fashion show as a platform to redefine the cancer journey with hope.

“Looking at all of us, cancer survivors, on stage, no one will be able to tell that we actually went through such a traumatic, debilitating journey.”

While Vivienne Wong who survived breast cancer believes this Fashion for Cancer initiative can show that the cancer journey is not all sad and sickly.

“I think it’s important to show the world that cancer patients and survivors can be vibrant and beautiful, and the Fashion for Cancer campaign brings that to life.”

So how can you support this cause?

All the money from ticket sales, priced at $200 each, will go to the NCCS Cancer Fund, which is also a part of the SingHealth Fund. It can help improve cancer care and make a positive impact on those fighting this tough battle.

So if you’re available on 25 August 2023, get your ticket and mark it on your calendar to support this event. But if you CMI, consider donating any amount that makes sense to you financially here: giving.sg/campaigns/ffc. Every dollar counts and your contribution (no matter how small you think it is) can make a meaningful difference. Consider being a part of it!

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Latest WFH internships posted from 19 to 22 June 2023

woman working on her laptop in bed

Are you eager to gain valuable experience and grow professionally without leaving your home? 

Look no further!

I’ve gathered a list of the latest WFH internships that are perfect for individuals like you.

Whether you’re a student wanting to apply your skills in the real world or someone looking to switch careers, these remote internships will spark your enthusiasm and fast-track your career.

Ready to roll? Let’s go.

#1: FDM Group – HR Intern

 

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Website: fdmgroup.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Degree level or currently working towards a degree
  • Passion for HR
  • Proven ability to appropriately handle sensitive information required
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Self-motivated, collaborative, and strong focus on service delivery, quality, and efficiency
  • Ability to prioritize
  • Strong attention to detail and quick turnaround
  • Technically proficient in the use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
  • Eligible to work in Singapore
  • Available from July 2023 until the end of December 2023
Key Responsibilities
  • Help support with day-to-day HR operations matters such as pre-board, onboarding new hires, and employee exits.
  • Maintain and update personal files and our internal HR system SuccessFactors
  • Prepare documentation for employment status changes or updates
  • Assist in resolving and responding to day-to-day employee queries; such as reference, annual leave, sickness, National Service
  • Generate reports or data requests from the internal team, clients, and vendors
  • Assist with MOM Surveys
  • May undertake project-based work in the area of employment, people analytics, well-being, employee events, benefits, and/or salary benchmarking
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your CV to [email protected].

#2: Foodnews PR Pte Ltd – Public Relations Assistant

 

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Website: foodnews.com.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Someone with a keen interest in entering the public relations industry
  • Should speak and write fluent English
  • Meticulous and an independent worker
Key Responsibilities
  • Writing of press releases
  • Disseminate and follow up with press releases
  • Manage all media-related materials
  • Media tracking (traditional and new media)
  • Events management (when required)
  • Organize media tastings and interviews
  • Prepare monthly/weekly media reports
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Ariel via this link.

#3: AutoWealth Pte Ltd – Growth Hacking Intern

 

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Website: autowealth.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Strategic thinking
  • You have a good working knowledge of marketing
  • You have basic knowledge of finance/investment
  • You are sociable and you can hold a good conversation with people of diverse background
  • Pursuing a university degree in a business or communications-related field
  • Nice to have: experience in marketing
  • Nice to have: experience in developing graphical marketing materials (e.g. flyers/infographics)
Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with the marketing team to conceptualize, develop, and execute creative social media campaigns and content across various platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.).
  • Design visually appealing and engaging graphics, images, and videos to support social media campaigns and content.
  • Monitor and analyze social media metrics to identify trends, optimize campaigns, and maximize audience engagement.
  • Conduct market research to stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging growth hacking strategies.
  • Assist in planning and executing marketing events, including trade shows, conferences, and promotional activities.
  • Actively engage with our target audience on social media platforms to build brand loyalty and foster meaningful connections.
  • Stay up to date with the latest social media tools, trends, and best practices, and make recommendations to enhance our social media presence.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your CV to [email protected].

#4: Zumvet Pte. Ltd. – Business Development Intern

 

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Website: zumvet.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $650 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Communication and negotiation skills
  • Basic computer skills
  • Proactive, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and promptly
  • Independent but also able to collaborate in a team environment
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform market research, identifying trends and market opportunities;
  • Support in writing business plans, and administration work, e.g. partnership proposals and market research;
  • Negotiating partnerships through professional communications with individuals/corporations through various channels, including phone, email, chat, and text;
  • Collaborate cross-functionally (strategy, marketing, operations) to ensure smooth business operations;
  • Identify growth opportunities within the industry and engage strategically alongside the different areas of the business with a clear roadmap for execution;
  • Suggest potential changes, strategies, and business processes to senior management using analytics to support your recommendations. Actively participate in the implementation of approved changes;
  • Curate sales pitches, presentations, and marketing materials as required to implement business growth strategies; and
  • Provide ad-hoc support to the corporate development team.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Adelina via this link.

#5: Sqkii Pte. Ltd. – Copywriter Intern

 

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Website: sqkii.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • High attention to details
  • Ideally a strong understanding of social media marketing
  • Creativity and the ability to understand and respond to clients’ needs
  • A high degree of self-motivation
  • Confidence in your abilities
  • Past creative writing samples are a plus
  • Some proficiency in graphics and/or video editing is another plus
  • Interest in human psychology and consumer behavior is a double plus
  • Commitment for at least three months, though the internship period is flexible
Key Responsibilities
  • Creating clear and compelling copy to best meet the stakeholders’ objectives
  • Acting as the guardian of Sqkii’s brand voice and those of our clients across different marketing campaigns
  • Producing engaging gameplay and UI copies that excite our players
  • Using Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) principles to maximize copy’s reach
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your resume to [email protected].

Note: We’ve selected these internships based on the “remote” tag, but some positions may still require some face-to-face time. Please contact the employer directly for more deets.

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