Cultural Mediation and Community Engagement Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration management, including migration health, integration, and humanitarian assistance. IOM Ireland has been active since 2001, addressing migration issues such as Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, Resettlement, Family Reunification, Counter-Trafficking, Protection, and Integration Support.

Job Overview:
The Cultural Mediation and Community Engagement Coordinator will play a vital role in enhancing the psychosocial well-being of international protection seekers residing in the Citywest accommodation facility. This position involves implementing project activities that focus on community mobilization and engagement for international protection applicants. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Chief of Mission in Ireland and collaborate closely with various stakeholders to ensure that creative, cultural, and spiritual activities are organized for the communities. The role requires a deep understanding of the community's needs and the ability to facilitate inclusive activities that promote cultural initiatives, strengthen existing practices, and support the overall resilience of displaced communities. The coordinator will also be responsible for establishing effective communication channels between the MHPSS program and local stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of affected populations are heard and considered in program planning and execution.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Organize creative, cultural, and spiritual activities for communities and specific groups within the community.
• Map existing creative resources and processes within the community and mobilize them for visibility and training in MHPSS mainstreaming.
• Strengthen cultural, religious, and creative practices, including civic commemorations, religious rites, sports, theatre, and arts events.
• Assist displaced communities in reviving their cultural rituals and traditions that may have been disrupted due to displacement.
• Promote cultural initiatives such as social theatre performances, visual arts, music courses, handcraft workshops, storytelling, and sports tournaments based on community needs.
• Design structured plans for creative activities in collaboration with the Counsellor.
• Facilitate daily communication with affected populations, ensuring two-way communication and peer support.
• Support PMTs in ensuring accountability and receiving feedback from affected populations.
• Provide technical guidance and supervision to community focal points and volunteers. 1
• Assist in mobilizing various sectors of the community and identifying interventions for MHPSS activities. 1
• Develop awareness messages and campaigns related to MHPSS and community-based approaches. 1
• Support case workers in conducting needs assessments and mapping exercises to identify individuals and families in need of support. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma with four years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in Education, Communication, Arts and Media, or Humanities with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience.
• Accredited universities must be listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.
• Postgraduate studies in arts, media, or psychosocial support in emergency settings are an advantage.
• At least 2 years of experience in cultural mediation within the framework of migrant assistance.
• Previous experience in a similar role is preferred.
• Strong organizational, facilitation, communication, writing, and presentation skills.
• Computer literacy in standard software applications (MS Office, etc.).
• A valid driver’s license with at least five years of driving experience is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with four years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Education, Communication, Arts and Media, or Humanities. The educational qualifications must be from accredited institutions recognized in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Postgraduate studies in related fields are considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience, particularly in cultural mediation and community engagement within the context of migrant assistance. Experience in communicating and working with diverse populations, including migrants and refugees, is essential. Familiarity with direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is preferred, along with experience in a multicultural environment. Previous roles with international organizations, NGOs, EU agencies, or government departments are advantageous. Strong organizational skills and the ability to facilitate effective communication are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of any UN languages is considered an advantage, as it may enhance communication with diverse populations and stakeholders. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, but proficiency in English is essential for effective engagement in this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ireland will be considered. The appointment will depend on the candidate's medical fitness for the role, as well as verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the relevant government authorities. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's principles, including discrimination and harassment. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the IOM online recruitment system.