Mentor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration. It operates under the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. As a related organization of the United Nations, IOM supports migrants worldwide by developing effective responses to the changing dynamics of migration. It serves as a crucial source of policy and practice advice on migration issues. The organization intervenes in emergencies, strengthens the resilience of all people on the move, especially those in vulnerable situations, and contributes to building the capacities of governments to manage all forms and consequences of mobility. IOM is guided by the principles outlined in the UN Charter, particularly the respect for human rights for all, and prioritizes the rights, dignity, and well-being of migrants.

Job Overview:
The mentor will work under the direct supervision of the Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Project Assistant or any other designated person from the IOM, including staff from an implementing partner. The mentor will provide basic emotional and practical support to returning migrants as part of the EU-funded Migrant Protection, Return, and Reintegration (MPRR) program implemented by IOM, aiding their reintegration process. Community volunteers will dedicate a maximum of 10 to 15 hours per week, approximately 2 to 3 hours per day, depending on planned activities, allowing them to pursue other opportunities alongside their volunteer engagement with IOM.

Duties and Responsibilities:
- Ensure close coordination with IOM/implementing partner staff. A focal point within the Organization will be assigned to each mentor. - Provide one-on-one basic psychosocial support, including supportive communication, encouragement of positive coping, and psychological first aid (PFA) to certain migrants as needed. - Facilitate the development or reactivation of social connections, peer support mechanisms, and other forms of social networks among returning migrants (note: peer support groups must be co-facilitated by a member of the MHPSS staff). - Assist in organizing and facilitating community MHPSS activities and other events under the program, as agreed with IOM/implementing partner. This includes recreational, creative, and other sociocultural activities and community awareness initiatives that enhance the perception of returning migrants. - Share and discuss with the focal point all innovative ideas and culturally appropriate community strategies for providing community psychosocial support. - Identify migrants with additional MHPSS needs and refer them to the focal point. - Be available to accompany any migrant with more severe MHPSS issues to appointments with a MHPSS professional. - Beyond MHPSS, disseminate information and raise awareness about various aspects of reintegration, following the guidelines of IOM/implementing partner. - Offer other forms of practical support to returnees to assist them in engaging with reintegration assistance, such as advice on waiting times and responses to common questions. - Maintain an updated mapping of useful services in the area for returning migrants, including health, social, legal, and economic services, and refer migrants to these services as necessary. - Produce a monthly activity report detailing the work done. IOM/implementing partner will provide the dedicated tools for these tasks. - Participate in monthly check-ins with the focal point. - Perform other tasks that may be assigned. - Adhere to ethical standards and codes of conduct in the performance of duties.

Required Qualifications:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills. - Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. - Experience in community engagement and support. - Understanding of psychosocial support principles and practices. - Cultural sensitivity and awareness of the local context.

Educational Background:
- A background in psychology, social work, or a related field is preferred. - Training in psychosocial support or mental health is an asset.

Experience:
- Previous experience in providing psychosocial support or working with vulnerable populations is highly desirable. - Familiarity with migration issues and the challenges faced by returning migrants is beneficial.

Languages:
- Proficiency in French is mandatory. - Knowledge of local languages is an asset and can enhance communication with migrants.

Additional Notes:
- The position is voluntary and does not establish any employment relationship with IOM. - The role requires flexibility and adaptability to work in potentially challenging and risky conditions, with limited comfort. - The IOM disclaims any responsibility beyond what is stated in this document regarding your participation as a mentor. - Candidates will undergo background checks and must receive confirmation and authorization from the United Nations Department of Safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (UNDSS).