Adolescents and Youth Development Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to improve reproductive health and rights, empower adolescents and young people, and strengthen population and development strategies. The organization is committed to ethical practices and seeks principled staff who can deliver high-impact results. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2018-2021 emphasizes ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence. In Laos, UNFPA is initiating its 7th Country Programme, focusing on policy advocacy, communication, and innovative initiatives to achieve transformative results in the region.

Job Overview:
The Adolescents and Youth Development Associate will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of UNFPA's youth empowerment programs in Laos. This position involves working closely with the AY-Programme team to monitor and facilitate activities under the TUSIP UN Joint Programme on child marriage. The associate will coordinate with various stakeholders, including UNICEF and implementing partners, to ensure effective program delivery. The role requires organizing advocacy events, workshops, and liaising with communications teams to enhance donor visibility. The associate will also manage youth volunteers, engage them in events, and support the commemoration of international days related to youth and health. This position is vital for creating a supportive ecosystem for adolescents and young people in Laos, enabling them to achieve their full potential and contribute to sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Adolescents and Youth Development Associate include:

• Monitoring and facilitating the implementation of activities under the TUSIP UN Joint Programme on child marriage, including coordination with UNICEF Lao CO and providing administrative support to the programme team.
• Coordinating with implementing partners on reporting, planning field missions, and scheduling meetings/discussions.
• Supporting the organization of advocacy events and workshops with various stakeholders, preparing meeting minutes and reports.
• Liaising with communications teams to ensure donor visibility and event coverage on social media and print media.
• Regularly following up with the operations team to secure approvals and expedite procurement processes.
• Managing and engaging with Youth Volunteers, facilitating their participation in events, workshops, and policy dialogues.
• Managing UNFPA’s booth at AY-Programme events, policy dialogues, workshops, and dissemination events.
• Supporting the commemoration of UN international days, including International Youth Day, International Girl Child Day, World Aids Day, and World Population Day.
• Participating in regular programmes/all-staff meetings and contributing innovative ideas to promote young people's health and well-being. 1
• Coordinating with the Gender/GBV Programme Team to facilitate effective implementation of joint activities under TUSIP UNJP. 1
• Supporting financial management processes/documentation for the AY-Programme, including posting requisitions and facilitating travel for team members. 1
• Monitoring the financial outlook of the TUSIP project with support from the Programme Specialist. 1
• Performing any other tasks assigned by the supervisor and the UNFPA Representative.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Adolescents and Youth Development Associate position include a strong commitment to the mission and values of UNFPA, as well as the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. Candidates should possess excellent organizational and communication skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. A background in social sciences, public health, or a related field is preferred. Familiarity with youth empowerment issues and experience in program implementation, monitoring, and evaluation are highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate adaptability, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Adolescents and Youth Development Associate position should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field. A master's degree is an advantage but not mandatory. Educational qualifications should be complemented by relevant training or certifications in youth development, program management, or related areas.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in program implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, particularly in the context of youth and adolescent development. Experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, or government organizations in Laos or similar contexts is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing projects, coordinating with stakeholders, and engaging youth in program activities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of UNFPA. Knowledge of Lao language is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of engaging diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Vientiane, Laos, and offers a comfortable living environment. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to adapt to a tropical climate. The UNV Office in Laos will assist in finding suitable accommodation. The position may involve some travel within the country for field missions and stakeholder engagement. Candidates should be aware of COVID-19 precautions and protocols that need to be followed during their assignment.