Join Our Team

Join the Cultural Vanguard: Opportunities at NYAFF

Be part of something extraordinary this summer. The New York Asian Film Festival—celebrated for its bold, diverse, and dynamic programming—seeks passionate volunteers to help shape our 25th season this July. Your talents will directly strengthen this vital platform that fosters cross-cultural dialogue and champions the innovation, creativity, and richness of Asian storytelling. Gain invaluable industry connections and exclusive festival access while making a meaningful impact. Transform your passion for Asian cinema into action—join our dynamic team today. We are working on it now!

Benefits

  • • Free access to select festival screenings and events
  • • Build connections with filmmakers, industry professionals, and fellow cinephiles in Asian/American film industry
  • • Gain an insider’s view and valuable experience in film exhibition, festival operations, and arts administration
  • • Join a passionate group dedicated to celebrating Asian cinema and culture
  • • Receive acknowledgment in festival materials and potential recommendation letters
  • • For eligible positions, transportation costs may be covered

Open Positions

Guest Relations Assistant (Seasonal, Hybrid, Unpaid)

The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF)/New York Asian Film Foundation is seeking Guest Relations Assistants to assist ...

The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF)/New York Asian Film Foundation is seeking Guest Relations Assistants to assist with guest management and hospitality during the 25th edition of NYAFF in July 2026. This role is essential in ensuring that filmmakers, industry professionals, and special guests have a seamless and enjoyable experience at the festival.

This is an unpaid internship running from May 4 - July 28, with full-time on-site availability required during the festival dates, July 10-26.

Key Responsibilities

  • • Maintain and update guest data (flights, hotels, schedules); track statuses and ensure accuracy
  • • Draft and update itineraries (travel, hotel, screenings, Q&As, press, events); ensure completeness and version control
  • • Cross-check against master schedules and databases; flag gaps, conflicts, and inconsistencies
  • • Assist with booking transportation (airport, hotel, official events); update records and track booking status, flagging issues proactively
  • • Support on-site ground transportation bookings for guests in a timely and efficient manner
  • • Respond to guest needs on-site, ensuring a professional, comfortable and safe experience

Qualifications

  • • Highly detail-oriented and organized, with a strong standard for accuracy
  • • Comfortable working with structured data (Airtable/Google Sheets) and maintaining reliable records
  • • Able to handle repetitive, detail-heavy tasks with consistency and focus
  • • Proactive in identifying gaps, inconsistencies, and missing information
  • • Able to manage multiple updates in a fast-paced environment
  • • Fluent in English; proficiency in an Asian language (Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Japanese, Thai) is a plus
  • • Prior experience in administrative support, events, hospitality, or operations preferred

How To Apply

Interested candidates should email their resume and a brief cover letter to guestrelations@nyaff.org with the subject line “Guest Relations Assistant (language you speak) – NYAFF 2026.”

Guest Handler (Seasonal, Unpaid)

The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF)/New York Asian Film Foundation is seeking Guest Handler to assist with guest ma...

The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF)/New York Asian Film Foundation is seeking Guest Handler to assist with guest management and hospitality during the 25th edition of NYAFF in July 2026. This role is essential in ensuring that filmmakers, industry professionals, and special guests have a seamless and enjoyable experience at the festival.

This is a non-paid volunteer position running from July 9–27, with on-site availability required during the festival period (July 10–26), subject to individual availability. Attendance at a half- or full-day orientation in early July is also required.

Key Responsibilities

  • • Assist with airport pickups and hotel check-ins, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure experience for guests
  • • Ensure smooth communication between guests and festival staff
  • • Escort guests to venues and assist with any logistical needs
  • • Reserve and arrange Uber, Lyft, or other car services for guests to travel between venues, events, and accommodations
  • • Address last-minute changes and problem-solve effectively to maintain a professional guest experience

Qualifications

  • • Hospitable, professional, and reliable, with the ability to engage confidently with guests, including high-profile individuals
  • • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to navigate cross-cultural interactions
  • • Able to operate in fast-paced environments and remain calm under pressure
  • • Fluent in English and at least one Asian language (Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Japanese, Thai) required
  • • Prior experience in hospitality, events, or coordination roles preferred

How To Apply

Interested candidates should email their resume and a brief cover letter to guestrelations@nyaff.org with the subject line “Guest Handler (language you speak) – NYAFF 2026.”

Public Relations Intern (Seasonal, Hybrid, Unpaid)

NYAFF is looking for two enthusiastic and motivated interns to join our Public Relations team. Reporting to the PR Manag...

NYAFF is looking for two enthusiastic and motivated interns to join our Public Relations team. Reporting to the PR Manager and working closely with the Digital Marketing, Guest Relations, and Operations teams, PR interns will play a key role in supporting media outreach, coordinating press opportunities, and ensuring publicity efforts before and during the festival.

This internship begins immediately. A minimum of 20 hours per week required leading up to the festival. Full-time on-site availability is required during the festival dates (July 10-26).

Key Responsibilities

  • • Assist the PR Manager with media relations, managing interview requests, and following up on press releases
  • • Coordinate with Guest Relations, press, and interpreters to schedule interviews and press conferences with filmmakers
  • • Follow and help execute the press schedule, manage time effectively, and ensure interviews on track
  • • Support red carpet events and manage press check-in on-site
  • • Help handle on-site press requests with professionalism
  • • Communicate clearly and effectively with the PR manager, other NYAFF staff, and festival volunteers to help ensure a seamless festival run

Qualifications

  • • Detail-oriented team player with excellent communication skills
  • • Professional and personable when working with press and high-profile guests from diverse backgrounds
  • • Strong multitasking and problem-solving abilities
  • • Comfortable with working in a fast-paced environment and under pressure
  • • Proficiency in Google Workspace suite and Microsoft Office
  • • Fluency in any Asian language (especially Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Japanese, and Thai) is a plus
  • • Prior PR experience including media relations and premiere events is a plus

How To Apply

Please email your resume and cover letter to info@nyaff.org. Feel free to drop us an email with any questions you may have!

Volunteer Coordinator (Hybrid, Seasonal, Unpaid)

Join a creative team dedicated to the exhibition and appreciation of Asian film culture in all its forms. For the 25th e...

Join a creative team dedicated to the exhibition and appreciation of Asian film culture in all its forms. For the 25th edition of the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF), taking place from July 10-26 at Film at Lincoln Center, the SVA Theatre, among other theaters across New York City, we are looking for a Volunteer Coordinator.

The Volunteer Coordinator's responsibilities include recruiting and training new volunteers, keeping a database of volunteer information and skills, matching volunteers to opportunities that suit their skills, keeping volunteers informed, and conveying the organization's purpose to the public.

This hybrid position runs from May 11 - July 31, with full-time on-site availability required during the festival dates, July 10-26.

Key Responsibilities

  • • Recruiting, training, and supervising new volunteers.
  • • Collecting volunteer information, availability, and skills, and maintaining an up-to-date database.
  • • Using marketing tools such as outreach programs, e-mails, and volunteer databases.
  • • Keeping new and existing volunteers informed about the organization and volunteer opportunities.
  • • Matching volunteers to opportunities that suit their skill sets, and ensuring they understand their responsibilities and receive the proper training.
  • • Organizing training and leading on-the-job training.
  • • Keeping schedules and records of volunteers' work.
  • • Preparing codes of conduct and operating procedures to uphold the organization's values.

Qualifications

  • • Experience in volunteering and recruitment.
  • • Working knowledge of databases.
  • • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • • Excellent organization and team-building skills

How To Apply

Please send your application materials to info@nyaff.org. Your application should include: (1) Resume or CV, (2) brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience, and (4) your availability from now to July 2026.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact us at info@nyaff.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the NYAFF team as we celebrate the vibrant world of Asian cinema!

Event Planning Intern (Hybrid, Seasonal, Unpaid)

The Event Planning Intern will work closely with the Operations team on the gala, red carpets, industry parties, recepti...

The Event Planning Intern will work closely with the Operations team on the gala, red carpets, industry parties, receptions, panels, and other public and VIP events. This is a great opportunity for someone interested in gaining hands-on experience in film festivals, event production, and community outreach.

This is a hybrid position with a minimum of 20 hours per week. Full-time and onsite availability during the festival dates (July 10-26, 2026) is highly preferred. We would like this role to start as soon as possible.

Key Responsibilities

  • • Assist with the planning and execution of festival events, including red carpets, panels, receptions, and industry gatherings
  • • Support event logistics and communications before, during, and after events
  • • Conduct outreach and coordinate with vendors, venues, and food & beverage partners
  • • Assist with outreach and event promotion within the Asian/American community and filmmakers circle
  • • Coordinate with photographers and videographers to document events
  • • Provide hospitality and on-site support for guests and participants
  • • Assist the team with general production and organizational tasks as needed

Qualifications

  • • Strong interest and familiarity in film festivals, arts/cultural and community building events
  • • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • • Comfortable with outreach and professional communication with vendors, community partners, and guests
  • • Collaborative attitude and ability to work in a fast-paced team environment
  • • Familiarity with local Asian American businesses, community organizations, or cultural networks is preferred
  • • Experience with event planning and production is a plus

How To Apply

Please send your application materials to info@nyaff.org with "Event Planning Intern” in the subject line. Your application should include: (1) Resume or CV, (2) brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience, and (3) your availability from now till the end of July 2026.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact us at info@nyaff.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the NYAFF team as we celebrate the vibrant world of Asian cinema!

Digital Marketing Intern (Hybrid, Seasonal, Unpaid)

The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) is seeking Digital Marketing Interns to manage and grow our presence across soc...

The New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) is seeking Digital Marketing Interns to manage and grow our presence across social media platforms. Working closely with the Digital Marketing Manager and the Programming team, this is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in arts and entertainment marketing while contributing to one of New York’s premier cultural events leading up to NYAFF’s 25th anniversary in July 2026.

This is an hybrid internship running through July 31, 2026, with a minimum commitment of 20 hours per week prior to the festival and full-time on-site availability required during the festival dates (July 10-26, 2026).

Key Responsibilities

  • • Assist with developing, scheduling, and publishing content across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X/Twitter, and other platforms under the supervision of the Digital Marketing Manager
  • • Support digital campaigns that promote festival programming, special events, sponsors, and community partners
  • • Collaborate with members of the marketing team on cross-platform content creation and audience engagement
  • • Monitor social media activity and assist with responding to comments, messages, and audience inquiries
  • • Assist with influencer, community, and partner outreach
  • • Help track social media analytics and contribute to weekly marketing debriefing
  • • Support on-site social media coverage and content creation during the festival

Qualifications

  • • Familiarity with major social media platforms and trends
  • • Knowledge of digital marketing, social media, film festivals, and/or arts and cultural programming
  • • Strong interest and knowledge of Asian/American cinema and popular culture
  • • Strong writing, editing, communication, and organizational skills
  • • Collaborative attitude and willingness to work in a fast-paced environment
  • • Familiarity with basic graphic design and/or video editing tools (Canva, Adobe Suite, CapCut, etc.) is highly preferred
  • • Experience with social media content creation, influencer outreach, or community engagement is a plus
  • • Fluency in any Asian language (especially Korean, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, and Thai) is a plus

How To Apply

Please send your application materials to info@nyaff.org with "Digital Marketing Intern” in the subject line. Your application should include: (1) Resume or CV, (2) brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience, (3) your portfolio (if applicable), and (4) your availability from now till the end of July 2026.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact us at info@nyaff.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the NYAFF team as we celebrate the vibrant world of Asian cinema!

Community Outreach Specialist (Seasonal, Unpaid)

NYAFF is seeking a Community Outreach Specialist to help strengthen the festival’s relationships with Asian and Asian Am...

NYAFF is seeking a Community Outreach Specialist to help strengthen the festival’s relationships with Asian and Asian American communities, organizations, businesses, and cultural partners for its 25th anniversary. Working collaboratively with the Digital Marketing, Operations, and Programming teams, the candidate will be self-motivated and strategic in leading outreach initiatives, expanding NYAFF’s community partnerships, and supporting community engagement efforts that expand the festival’s visibility and accessibility across New York City’s diverse cultural landscape.

This is a seasonal, unpaid position with a minimum commitment of 20 hours per week from now till the end of July 2026. Onsite presence is preferred during the festival dates (July 10–26, 2026).

Key Responsibilities

  • • Develop and maintain relationships with Asian and Asian American organizations, nonprofits, educational institutions, local businesses, cultural groups, and community partners
  • • Lead outreach efforts to expand NYAFF’s engagement with diverse communities across New York City and help boost festival visibility and attendance
  • • Coordinate community partnerships and cross-promotional opportunities in collaboration with the Digital Marketing and Operations teams
  • • Maintain outreach databases, partnership records, contact lists, and communication timelines
  • • Represent NYAFF in communications with community partners, local organizations, and collaborators

Qualifications

  • • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • • Demonstrated experience in outreach, partnership development, and community engagement
  • • Strong familiarity with Asian American organizations, nonprofits, and local cultural networks and grassroots initiatives in New York
  • • Strong interest in and knowledge of Asian cinema and popular culture
  • • Collaborative, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced festival environment
  • • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and database management systems
  • • Affinity with Asian/American nonprofits and/or Asian/American filmmaking community is a plus

How To Apply

Please send your application materials to info@nyaff.org with "Community Outreach Specialist” in the subject line. Your application should include: (1) Resume or CV, (2) brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience, and (3) your availability from now till the end of July 2026.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact us at info@nyaff.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the NYAFF team as we celebrate the vibrant world of Asian cinema!

Graphic Design Intern (Seasonal, Unpaid)

The New York Asian Film Festival is seeking Graphic Design Interns to support the festival’s branding and promotional ma...

The New York Asian Film Festival is seeking Graphic Design Interns to support the festival’s branding and promotional materials. Working closely with the Lead Graphic Designer and the Digital Marketing team, interns will contribute to the creation of digital and print assets for festival screenings, events, social media, and community outreach campaigns. This internship is a great opportunity for emerging designers interested in film, arts, and Asian/American cultural programming to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced festival environment.

This is a seasonal, unpaid internship with a minimum commitment of 20 hours per week from now till the end of July 2026. Onsite presence is encouraged during the festival dates (July 10–26, 2026).

Key Responsibilities

  • • Assist with the design and creation of visual assets for print, digital media, and events
  • • Work within NYAFF’s established visual identity and branding guidelines
  • • Adapt and revise graphics across multiple formats and platforms as needed
  • • Contribute creative ideas that help strengthen and evolve the festival’s visual presence
  • • Assist with organizing design files and maintaining efficient production workflows

Qualifications

  • • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Photoshop and Illustrator
  • • Knowledge of photo/video editing and layout techniques for promotional and social media
  • • Ability to produce high-quality graphics with guidelines in an efficient and timely manner
  • • Strong organizational and proofreading skills and attention to detail
  • • Self-motivated, collaborative, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
  • • Strong interest in Asian/American film and media culture
  • • Familiarity with major social media platforms and digital trends is a plus
  • • Reading proficiency in an Asian language, especially Korean, Japanese, Chinese, or Thai, is a plus

How To Apply

Please send your application materials to info@nyaff.org with "Graphic Design Intern” in the subject line. Your application should include: (1) Resume or CV, (2) brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience, (3) portfolio, and (4) your availability from now till the end of July 2026.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact us at info@nyaff.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the NYAFF team as we celebrate the vibrant world of Asian cinema!

Volunteer Photo/Videographers (Seasonal, Unpaid)

Join a creative team dedicated to the exhibition and appreciation of Asian film culture in all its forms. For the 25th a...

Join a creative team dedicated to the exhibition and appreciation of Asian film culture in all its forms. For the 25th anniversary of the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF), taking place July 10–26, 2026 at Film at Lincoln Center, the SVA Theatre, among other venues across New York City, we are seeking volunteer photographers and videographers to help capture the unforgettable moments of one of North America’s leading celebrations of Asian cinema.

Key Responsibilities

  • • Photograph and/or film festival events, including red carpets, Q&As, receptions, and special programs
  • • Capture portraits and candid moments featuring filmmakers, guests, and audiences
  • • Edit and organize photo/video materials for festival publication and social media use
  • • Deliver media files in a timely manner following events
  • • Coordinate with the Digital Marketing and Operations teams on coverage priorities and schedules
  • • Assist with maintaining consistent visual documentation of the festival experience

Qualifications

  • • Experience with photography and/or videography, particularly live events and portrait
  • • Familiarity with photo/video editing software and access to personal equipment/laptop
  • • Strong organizational skills and ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines
  • • Portfolio or samples of previous work preferred

How To Apply

Please email your portfolio and availability during July 10-26, 2026 to info@nyaff.org with "Photographer” or “Videographer” in the subject line. For questions, please contact us at info@nyaff.org. We look forward to welcoming you to the NYAFF team as we celebrate the vibrant world of Asian cinema!

Festival Volunteers (Seasonal, Unpaid)

Join a fun and passionate team celebrating the best of Asian cinema from around the world! For the 25th anniversary of t...

Join a fun and passionate team celebrating the best of Asian cinema from around the world! For the 25th anniversary of the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF), taking place July 10–26, 2026 at Film at Lincoln Center, the SVA Theatre, and venues across New York City, we are looking for festival volunteers to help bring the excitement of the festival to life.

Volunteering at NYAFF is a great chance to meet fellow film lovers and professionals from around the world and gain behind-the-scenes knowledge of a leading Asian film festival. Whether you’re interested in cinema, art and cultural events, or simply want to be part of an exciting summer experience in NYC, we’d love to have you on the team!

Key Responsibilities

  • • Greet and assist audiences, guests, and filmmakers at festival venues
  • • Support front-of-house operations, including ushering, ticket checking, crowd management, and line coordination
  • • Distribute festival materials, merchandise, raffle tickets, and audience surveys
  • • Assist with Q&A sessions, including running microphones and supporting festival staff
  • • Answer audience questions regarding screenings, venues, schedules, and festival information
  • • Assist with light event setup, breakdown, and post-event cleanup when needed

Commitment:

  • • A minimum of three shifts during the festival (a typical shift may include two screenings or events, approximately 4-5 hours)
  • • Attend one in-person volunteer orientation in early July
  • • Participate at least one pre-festival move-in shift (2-3 hours, during July 6-9) and one post-festival move-out shift (2-3 hours, during July 27-30)

Qualifications

  • • Friendly, professional, and enthusiastic attitude
  • • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • • Reliable, punctual, and comfortable working in fast-paced public environments
  • • Ability to work on shifts across multiple venues in Manhattan
  • • Fluency in any Asian language (especially Korean, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, and Thai) is a plus

How To Apply

Send an email with why you are interested in volunteering and your availability during July 6-30, 2026 to volunteer@nyaff.org. Feel free to drop us an email with any questions you may have!