Advocacy with the 34 Gallery Initiative

Job Posting Organization:
Simuka Africa Youth Association is a registered voluntary charitable organization established in 200

• The organization was founded in response to pressing social issues such as poverty, gender-based violence, and limited access to educational programs that affect at-risk girls, marginalized youth, and families in Zimbabwe. With a mission to empower the youth and combat child marriage, Simuka Africa has been actively involved in various initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on SDG 1 to
• The organization has gained recognition for its impactful campaigns that highlight the importance of education in addressing poverty and gender inequality. Over the years, Simuka Africa has expanded its reach and influence, operating various programs aimed at equipping young people with the necessary tools to build better futures and establish careers. The organization is committed to maintaining high standards and is currently celebrating its 20th year of operation, which underscores its dedication to its mission and the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The position involves creating and developing a comprehensive online creative arts campaign that utilizes various artistic mediums to engage and educate the target audience. The role is crucial in amplifying the efforts of Simuka Africa through the 34 Gallery Initiative, which focuses on mental health advocacy and gender equality. The campaign aims to raise awareness about mental health issues, promote self-care, and highlight the benefits of art therapy, particularly for children. The selected candidate will be responsible for generating content that consolidates and publicizes artwork from Open Call participants, thereby fostering a dialogue around mental health and creativity. Additionally, the role includes assisting with the launch of a Mentorship Outreach Program aimed at individuals aged 55 and above, encouraging retirees to contribute their experience and knowledge to the initiative. The overall goal is to inspire global awareness and support for mental health and gender equality through artistic expression and community engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Create and develop a comprehensive online creative arts campaign that utilizes various artistic mediums.
• Engage and educate the target audience on mental health issues through artistic expression.
• Consolidate and generate publicity for artwork submitted by Open Call participants.
• Educate the public on self-care, art therapy, and the benefits of art for child development.
• Assist in the launch of the Mentorship Outreach Program for individuals aged 55+.
• Encourage volunteers to submit their own artwork based on Art Therapy Open Call themes.
• Collaborate with other art institutions for the monthly Art Therapy Open Calls.
• Highlight and promote the presence of international female artists through the Empower4Her initiative.
• Create short videos for social media platforms, including YouTube and Instagram Reels. 1
• Maintain high standards of content quality and engagement across all platforms. 1
• Foster positive mental health conversations and expand the online mental health community. 1
• Lay the groundwork for sustained advocacy efforts for gender equality.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong background in creative arts, including visual arts, writing, or multimedia content creation.
• Experience in campaign development and execution, particularly in the non-profit sector.
• Knowledge of mental health issues and advocacy, particularly as they relate to art therapy.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and independently.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and content creation tools.
• Passion for social justice, gender equality, and youth empowerment.

Educational Background:
A degree in Fine Arts, Communications, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with relevant certifications in art therapy or mental health advocacy will be considered favorably. Additionally, experience in community outreach or non-profit work will enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in creative content development, campaign management, or a related field. Experience working with marginalized communities or in mental health advocacy is highly desirable. Familiarity with the challenges faced by at-risk youth and an understanding of gender-based issues will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe, such as Shona or Ndebele, is a plus and will enhance communication with the target audience.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and may require flexible hours to accommodate campaign needs and outreach activities. The organization is open to recruiting both nationally and internationally, encouraging a diverse range of applicants. Compensation details are not specified, but the role offers an opportunity to contribute to meaningful social change and gain valuable experience in the non-profit sector.