Mentor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is recognized as the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration. With a mission to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, IOM works closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. The organization has 174 member states and 8 observer states, with offices in over 100 countries. IOM's activities are focused on ensuring the orderly and humane management of migration, promoting international cooperation on migration issues, and providing humanitarian assistance to migrants in need, including refugees and internally displaced persons. The organization operates in four broad areas of migration management: migration and development, facilitating migration, regulating migration, and addressing forced migration. IOM also emphasizes the importance of international migration law, the protection of migrants' rights, migration health, and the gender dimension of migration.

Job Overview:
The Mentor position is designed to provide emotional and practical support to returning migrants in Senegal as part of the Migrant Protection, Return, and Reintegration Program (MPRR), funded by the European Union and implemented by IOM. Under the direct supervision of the National Protection Officer (Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support), the Mentor will dedicate approximately 10 to 15 hours per week to assist migrants in their reintegration process. This role allows for flexibility, enabling volunteers to pursue other opportunities alongside their commitment to IOM. The Mentor will be responsible for providing one-on-one psychosocial support, facilitating social connections among returning migrants, and organizing community activities that promote positive reintegration experiences. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying and addressing the psychosocial needs of migrants, ensuring they receive appropriate support and guidance throughout their reintegration journey.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mentor will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Coordinating closely with IOM staff and implementation partners, with a designated focal point assigned for each Mentor.
• Providing basic psychosocial support on a one-on-one basis, including supportive communication, encouragement of positive adaptation, and psychological first aid (PFA) as needed.
• Facilitating the development or reactivation of social connections, peer support mechanisms, and other forms of social networks among returning migrants.
• Assisting in organizing and facilitating community SMSPS activities and other events as agreed with IOM/implementation partners, including recreational, creative, and sociocultural activities that enhance the perception of returning migrants.
• Sharing innovative ideas and culturally appropriate community strategies for providing psychosocial support with the focal point.
• Identifying migrants with additional SMSPS needs and referring them to the focal point.
• Accompanying migrants with more severe SMSPS issues to appointments with professionals.
• Disseminating information and raising awareness about various aspects of reintegration according to IOM/partner guidelines.
• Offering practical support to returnees to assist them in engaging with reintegration assistance, including advice on waiting times and responses to common questions. 1
• Maintaining a mapping of useful services in the region for returning migrants, including health, social, legal, and economic services, and directing migrants to these services as necessary. 1
• Producing a monthly activity report detailing the work accomplished. 1
• Participating in monthly check-ins with the focal point. 1
• Performing other tasks as assigned and adhering to ethical standards and conduct in the execution of duties.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Mentor position should possess the following qualifications:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to provide empathetic support to migrants.
• Experience in community engagement, social work, or related fields is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of mental health and psychosocial support principles and practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances and needs.
• Commitment to promoting human rights and dignity for all individuals, regardless of their background.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally have a degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field. Additional training or certifications in mental health and psychosocial support would be advantageous and enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of migration or humanitarian assistance. Experience in providing psychosocial support or community-based services is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges faced by returning migrants and possess the skills necessary to support their reintegration process effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory for this position, as the role involves direct communication with returning migrants in Senegal. Proficiency in English or other local languages would be considered an asset, enhancing the Mentor's ability to connect with a broader range of individuals and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program, which promotes equal opportunities and welcomes applications from qualified professionals. The role is voluntary and requires a commitment of 10 to 15 hours per week, allowing for flexibility to pursue other opportunities. The IOM is committed to diversity and inclusion, and all volunteers are expected to uphold the values of the UNV program, including combating discrimination and promoting respect for human rights. Selected candidates may be subject to background checks and vaccination requirements as per the policies of the host entity.