Online Volunteer for Graphics Design Support

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key UN entity established to promote and protect human rights globally. The Regional Office for Southern Africa (ROSA) is located in Pretoria, South Africa, and serves multiple countries including Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The office is dedicated to providing technical support and guidance to various stakeholders, including UN Country Teams, national human rights institutions, and civil society organizations. OHCHR aims to enhance participation, protect civic space, strengthen rule of law, and address issues such as gender-based violence and discrimination. The office also focuses on integrating human rights into sustainable development and ensuring that human rights mechanisms are effectively engaged with by States and other stakeholders. The Regional Office employs a team of experts and collaborates with Human Rights Advisors across the region to fulfill its mission.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer for Graphics Design Support will play a crucial role in enhancing the communications and advocacy efforts of the OHCHR Regional Office for Southern Africa. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about human rights and have a flair for graphic design. The volunteer will work closely with the Public Information Officer (PIO) to create visual assets that effectively communicate the office's work and messages. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in a UN agency's communications department, allowing the volunteer to develop skills in internal and external communications while contributing to the office's strategic goals. The volunteer will be responsible for designing social media posts, website graphics, and publication layouts, ensuring that all materials align with the office's messaging and branding.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected Online Volunteer will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Creating draft designs for up to two social media posts daily, ensuring they meet the requirements discussed with the communications team.
• Developing three unique graphic designs per week based on specific needs and guidelines provided by the PIO and other staff members.
• Collaborating with the PIO and OHCHR staff to develop two social media messaging pieces each day, ensuring cohesive communication across platforms.
• Assisting in the design and layout of publications related to ROSA projects, contributing to the overall visual identity of the office.
• Engaging in regular feedback sessions with the communications team to refine designs and messaging strategies.
• Staying updated on current human rights issues and trends to inform design choices and messaging.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a strong understanding of graphic design principles and tools. Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate creativity and the ability to translate complex human rights concepts into visually appealing graphics. Strong communication skills are necessary to collaborate effectively with the PIO and other team members. A proactive attitude and the ability to work independently while meeting deadlines are also important for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A background in graphic design, communications, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have completed or be pursuing a degree in a relevant discipline, which will provide them with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for this role. Coursework or experience in human rights, social justice, or international relations may also be beneficial, as it will enhance the volunteer's understanding of the context in which they will be working.

Experience:
While prior experience in a similar role is advantageous, it is not strictly required. Candidates should demonstrate a portfolio of previous graphic design work that showcases their skills and creativity. Experience working in a volunteer capacity or within a non-profit or UN environment is a plus, as it indicates familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities present in such settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communications and design work will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in the Southern Africa region, such as Portuguese or French, would be considered an asset, as it may enhance the volunteer's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and audiences.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and as such, it may not offer financial compensation. However, it provides invaluable experience working within a UN agency and contributes to the important mission of promoting and protecting human rights in Southern Africa. The role is expected to be part-time, allowing flexibility for the volunteer to manage their time effectively while fulfilling the responsibilities outlined. The duration of the volunteer assignment will be determined based on the needs of the office and the availability of the selected candidate.