Online Volunteer for Communication and Gender

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, and to make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the principles of the United Nations and aims to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2, which is to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. FAO's Regional Office for Africa (RAF) focuses on addressing regional priorities and challenges, particularly in relation to gender equality and women's empowerment in agriculture.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer position is designed to support the FAO's Regional Office for Africa in enhancing awareness and visibility regarding gender-related initiatives and priorities. The selected volunteer will work closely with the FAO Regional Senior Gender Expert and the RAF communication team to produce and disseminate various communication and advocacy materials. This role is crucial in promoting FAO's efforts to address gender issues in agriculture and food security, particularly in the context of the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The volunteer will engage in activities that include creating brochures, project briefs, policy briefs, and other visibility products aimed at raising awareness and disseminating knowledge. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change while developing skills in communication and gender advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Online Volunteer will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at supporting the communication and advocacy efforts of the FAO's gender team. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the production and dissemination of communication materials such as brochures, project briefs, and policy briefs.
• Supporting the development of materials for the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
• Designing and disseminating quarterly Gender and Inclusion Highlights for GFP networks.
• Contributing to social media campaigns via @FAOAfrica targeting specific audiences.
• Developing written and audio-visual communication products, including photo galleries and videos.
• Drafting, editing, proofreading, and fact-checking newsletters, briefs, speeches, and publications.
• Organizing workshops and meetings and preparing reports.
• Ensuring compliance with FAO's global key messages, terminology, standards, and guidelines in all communication products. The volunteer will also have the opportunity to network with the RAF gender team and enhance their skills in gender and communications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Online Volunteer position should possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal. They should have a good understanding of gender issues, particularly in the context of agriculture and food security. Familiarity with social media platforms and experience in creating communication materials are highly desirable. The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and to manage multiple tasks effectively is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of FAO, particularly in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment.

Educational Background:
A background in communications, gender studies, social sciences, or a related field is preferred for this position. Candidates should ideally be pursuing or have completed a degree in one of these areas, as this will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of gender issues in agriculture and the role of effective communication in advocacy.

Experience:
While prior experience in a similar role is beneficial, it is not strictly required. However, candidates should demonstrate relevant skills and a willingness to learn and contribute to the FAO's mission. Experience in volunteer work, internships, or academic projects related to gender, communications, or advocacy will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communication materials and interactions will be conducted in English. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Spanish, would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the volunteer's ability to engage with a broader audience and contribute to FAO's global initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and as such, it may not offer financial compensation. However, it provides an excellent opportunity for personal and professional development, networking, and gaining valuable experience in the field of gender and communications within an international organization. The duration of the volunteer assignment is flexible, and candidates should be prepared to commit a certain number of hours per week to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. The position is open to individuals from various backgrounds, and FAO encourages applications from diverse candidates.