International Youth UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Its mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA works in over 150 countries, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and youth empowerment, aiming to improve the lives of individuals and communities through comprehensive health services and advocacy.

Job Overview:
The International Youth UN Volunteer will play a crucial role in supporting the UNFPA Namibia Country Office in advancing national priorities related to Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH), youth empowerment, and gender equality. This position is aligned with UNFPA’s 2025–2029 programme framework, which emphasizes the importance of engaging and empowering adolescents and young people, particularly those who are marginalized. The volunteer will contribute to the implementation of various ASRH and youth programmes, focusing on youth engagement, participation, and advocacy. This includes supporting youth-led initiatives, enhancing platforms like the Youth Advisory Panel, and ensuring that young people's voices are heard in policy discussions and programme designs. The role also involves collaboration with other UN agencies, government bodies, and partners to create integrated solutions that address sexual and reproductive health rights, gender equality, HIV prevention, and youth economic empowerment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake several key tasks under the supervision of the Adolescents and Sexual and Reproductive Programme Analyst. These tasks include:

• Contributing to the development and implementation of the annual work plan for Adolescent and Youth programmes, ensuring strong integration with related areas such as gender and data.
• Supporting the coordination and management of the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) by organizing meetings, developing work plans, documenting recommendations, and facilitating follow-ups with UNFPA teams and government counterparts.
• Assisting in the development and distribution of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials on ASRH, GBV, and mental health, gaining exposure to social behavioral change communication strategies.
• Acting as the junior focal point for coordination with the Embassy of Japan, learning diplomatic correspondence protocols and donor relations management.
• Supporting youth economic empowerment initiatives by integrating financial literacy and entrepreneurship components into SRHR and GBV prevention programmes, collaborating with various stakeholders.
• Contributing to risk reduction and emergency response efforts, focusing on the connections between climate-related emergencies and SRHR, GBV, and harmful practices.
• Assisting in drafting and reviewing reports, capturing results, and documenting best practices and lessons learned, while learning about results-based management approaches.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and build trust among diverse groups. Creativity, integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity are essential values for this role. The volunteer should also demonstrate self-management skills, technological awareness, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Educational Background:
A background in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong understanding of sexual and reproductive health issues, youth empowerment, and gender equality.

Experience:
While specific years of experience may not be required, candidates should have some exposure to youth engagement, advocacy, or programme implementation in a relevant context. Experience working with diverse communities and understanding the challenges faced by adolescents and young people is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNFPA. Knowledge of local languages or other UN languages would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The UN Volunteer position is based in Windhoek, Namibia, which is classified as a family duty station with excellent living conditions. The city offers a range of amenities, including housing, shopping, and recreational facilities. The position may involve a full-time commitment, and the UN provides comprehensive security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security guidelines and support to ensure the safety of personnel. The volunteer will receive a mandatory security briefing upon arrival.