Online UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Regional Service Centre for Africa (RSCA) is one of five UNDP Regional Service Centres globally, dedicated to developing high-quality knowledge and policy for UNDP in Africa. Established to enhance the organization's interface with regional and continental bodies such as the African Union and Regional Economic Communities, it serves 46 Country Offices in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on sustainable development and empowerment initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Online UN Volunteer position is aimed at supporting UNDP's Youth Engagement and Empowerment portfolio by promoting Culture and Creative Industries (CCI) across 46 African countries. This role is crucial as it aligns with UNDP's strategic recognition of the creative sector as a vital engine for youth employment, social innovation, and sustainable development in Africa. The creative industries, often referred to as the 'orange economy', encompass a wide range of fields including arts, crafts, film, video games, fashion, and music. These sectors not only preserve cultural heritage but also provide significant employment opportunities, particularly for youth aged 15 to 2

• The volunteer will draft a comprehensive concept note that articulates how arts, media, design, and storytelling can be leveraged to tackle development challenges, promote peace and social inclusion, and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This assignment is particularly timely as Africa's Creator Economy is projected to grow significantly, presenting vast opportunities for youth empowerment and innovation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Online UN Volunteer will be responsible for several key tasks:

• Review background materials, including existing draft texts, data sources, and regional strategies, focusing on cultural and creative industries and youth engagement in Africa's evolving creator economy.
• Conduct additional desk research on relevant trends, actors, and best practices in Africa's creator economy, emphasizing youth-led initiatives and the role of young creatives in driving innovation and inclusive economic growth.
• Support the drafting of a detailed, well-structured concept note that integrates thematic elements such as cultural and creative sectors, youth empowerment, and inclusive development. This includes outlining rationale, objectives, proposed youth-centered activities, potential partners, and expected outcomes.
• Ensure that the concept note aligns with UNDP's strategic priorities on youth empowerment, peacebuilding, and inclusive development, with a focus on youth participation and leadership in the cultural economy ecosystem.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize information from various sources into coherent and actionable insights. Excellent writing skills are essential, as the role involves drafting a comprehensive concept note. Familiarity with the cultural and creative industries, particularly in the African context, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate an understanding of youth empowerment and sustainable development principles, as well as the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across sectors.

Educational Background:
A background in social sciences, development studies, cultural studies, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of the cultural and creative industries and their impact on youth and development.

Experience:
While specific professional experience may not be required for this volunteer position, any prior involvement in youth engagement, cultural initiatives, or development projects will be considered an asset. Experience in research, writing, or project management in related fields will also be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in this language. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those spoken in the African region, would be advantageous but not required.

Additional Notes:
This is an online volunteer position, allowing for flexibility in work hours and location. The assignment is expected to contribute to a significant project aimed at empowering youth through the cultural and creative industries, with a focus on sustainable development. The duration of the contract and specific compensation details are typically outlined by UNDP's volunteer program guidelines.