UN Volunteer - Tribal Youth Advocate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, including India since 1974, with a mission to promote reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and youth. The organization works collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government bodies and civil society organizations, to implement programs that address critical issues such as maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer - Tribal Youth Advocate position is designed to support UNFPA's initiatives in enhancing the health and rights of tribal populations in India, particularly focusing on adolescents, women, and youth. The role involves working closely with local tribal communities to raise awareness about government schemes and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues. Volunteers will be deployed in targeted blocks and villages in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, where they will engage with community members to facilitate access to essential services and information. The position requires a commitment to community engagement and the ability to work collaboratively with government and non-governmental partners to achieve program objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Providing coordination support to capacity-building initiatives at the district, block, and village levels.
• Assisting trained government providers in developing costed village vision documents through a consultative process.
• Organizing village-level camps to create awareness and promote the uptake of various government programs and schemes among tribal populations.
• Promoting UNFPA’s ‘Just Ask Chatbot’ to young people in tribal communities to facilitate access to information on sexual and reproductive health and rights.
• Collaborating with local tribal welfare officers and UNFPA District Facilitators to ensure effective implementation of programs.
• Engaging with community members to foster trust and encourage participation in health initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. They should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in teams and possess a good understanding of the challenges faced by tribal populations in India. A background in community engagement, public health, or social work is advantageous. Additionally, candidates should exhibit a high level of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a degree in social sciences, public health, community development, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics of tribal communities and the ability to engage effectively with diverse populations.

Experience:
The position is suitable for individuals with varying levels of experience, including recent graduates and those with prior volunteer or work experience in community development, public health, or related fields. Experience working with tribal populations or in rural settings is highly desirable, as it will enhance the volunteer's ability to connect with the community and understand their needs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in local languages spoken in the targeted states (such as Hindi or regional dialects) is highly beneficial. This linguistic capability will facilitate effective communication with community members and enhance the volunteer's impact in raising awareness about government schemes and SRH issues.

Additional Notes:
This is an unpaid volunteer assignment, and volunteers will not receive any financial compensation for their work. The contract duration is for 2 months, during which volunteers will be provided with a UNV duty of care package, including insurance and medical clearance. Upon successful completion of the assignment, volunteers will receive a UNV Certificate of Service. Additionally, volunteers will receive a basic travel allowance from UNFPA. The position is full-time and requires a commitment to community engagement and collaboration with various stakeholders.