National Volunteer - Communication

Job Posting Organization:
VSO is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO believes in effecting change not by sending aid, but by collaborating with volunteers and partners to empower individuals in some of the world's most impoverished and fragile regions. The organization recognizes that people in developing countries possess the desire, power, courage, and determination to shape their own futures. Through its Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach, VSO prioritizes the most marginalized individuals, fostering active citizenship that drives community-led change and achieves sustainable development goals long after projects or grants conclude. VSO operates in numerous countries, focusing on creating impactful volunteer opportunities that contribute to social and economic development.

Job Overview:
The National Volunteer - Communication role is designed to enhance the capacity of Civil Society Groups (CSGs) in the area of communications. This position will also support Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) project staff in building their skills in participatory monitoring, learning, and documentation of outcomes. The volunteer will be responsible for translating citizen-led data and outcomes into accessible communication products, such as case studies, briefs, visuals, and digital stories. These products aim to enhance downward accountability, amplify community voices, and support advocacy and policy influence. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and experience working with diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as proficiency in creating communication materials using Microsoft Office and graphic design tools. This role is crucial in ensuring that the voices of the community are heard and that their stories are effectively communicated to various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strengthen the communication capacity of Civil Society Groups (CSGs) by providing training and support in effective communication strategies.
• Collaborate with M&E project staff to enhance their skills in participatory monitoring and learning.
• Develop accessible communication products, including case studies, briefs, visuals, and digital stories, that translate citizen-led data and outcomes.
• Ensure that communication materials are tailored to different audiences and stakeholders, enhancing community voice and accountability.
• Support advocacy efforts by providing evidence-informed storytelling and learnings that can influence policy decisions.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions for CSGs to improve their communication skills and strategies.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communication initiatives and make recommendations for improvement.
• Work collaboratively with other team members and stakeholders to ensure alignment with VSO's mission and objectives.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Experience in creating communication materials, including graphics and visual content.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, publishing, and graphic design tools.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment and respect diverse perspectives.
• Knowledge of participatory monitoring and evaluation processes is an advantage.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• A commitment to VSO's mission and values, particularly in promoting equality and social justice.

Educational Background:
A degree in communications, social sciences, international development, or a related field is preferred. Additional certifications in graphic design or communication strategies would be beneficial.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have prior experience in a communication role, preferably within a non-profit or development context. Experience working with civil society organizations or community groups is highly desirable. Familiarity with participatory approaches and monitoring and evaluation processes will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Bangladesh would be advantageous and is considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role, and while an allowance will be provided to cover reasonable living expenses in the country, it may not be sufficient to send money home. Accommodation will be basic, reflecting the organization's work with some of the poorest communities in the world. The contract type, length, and salary details are not specified, indicating that this role may be flexible in terms of commitment. VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, and reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received.