Communications Advisor at Cuso International

Location: Cross River, Calabar
Employment Type: Volunteer
Start Date: October 2021
Placement Length: 5 months
Language Requirements: English Level 4-Advanced

About the Project and the Partner
Project - Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (SHARE):

• Cuso International will deliver the Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (SHARE) project, with a contribution from Global Affairs Canada (GAC) over seven years (2020-2027). SHARE aims to improve the economic and/or social well-being of the poorest, most marginalized and vulnerable people, particularly women and girls, in developing countries, with a view to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
• In addition to increasing engagement of Canadians in international development and key global issues, this project will aim to increase the performance of country partners to deliver more inclusive, innovative and environmentally sustainable development initiatives that advance gender equality, in support of the action areas of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.

The Volunteer’s Role

• If you are passionate about implementing communication initiatives this might be the role for you!
• As the Communications Advisor you will bring your experience to support all internal and external communication and support the project's website and social media platforms.
• Apply to this role and make together the difference!

As a Volunteer, You Will:

• Develop a research plan to understand the local context and capacities on the topic of Integrated Natural Resource Management & Climate Change for local. This research will be used to develop a work plan to increase capacities and/or incorporate a sustainable approach in economic and social development projects and activities
• Carry out a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of Natural Resources and Environmental Units (UMA) of local governments of Olancho; Yoro and Francisco Morazán to develop an action plan to increase local capacities on Integrated Natural Resource Management, Climate change, model forest and other approaches that promote participatory governance
• Develop facilitator’s guides and train staff on Integrated Natural Resource Management & Climate Change and Model Forest so they can implement actions and continue to replicate these modules with other field groups
• Contribute to incorporate a sustainable approach through developing measures into project proposals, activities developed with local partners, etc.
• Participate in events and/or meetings related as well as other support requires by Cuso Honduras

Essential Requirements

• University Degree in Environmental Studies, Biology, Water Resources Engineering or related careers and/or equivalent experience in a related field.

Essential Background:

• 3 - 5 years experience in Integrated Natural Resource Management & Climate Change.
• Watershed protection and management projects, governance, and water management through local, municipal or regional authorities.
• Knowledge of rural development processes in Latin America.
• Demonstrated experience working in multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience working with communities.
• Research experience.

Terms and Conditions

• Cuso International terms and conditions allow you to lead a modest and healthy lifestyle while being effective in your placement. This support package will cover basic living expenses for one volunteer and is not intended to cover home-based expenses (ex. loans, support payments, etc.) or luxury items such as imported items in placement or international personal travel.

Support Package:

• Modest monthly living allowance
• Accommodation while in placement, return airfare/transport and cost of health insurance for volunteers from outside the region
• Training and orientation (more details below)
• On the ground support through our Cuso International country program office
• Access to Employee Assistance Program while in placement and upon return

Training and Briefing:

• We commit to helping you prepare as best as possible for your placement. You will have an advisor to support you through the process and will receive essential training as part of your preparation. This training is designed to maximize your understanding of your placement and culture, help you identify and plan your own learning, and help you stay safe and healthy during your placement.

Overview of Pre-departure Training:

• Skills and Knowledge for Working in Development (SKWID) program - A 45-hour training program that uses a blended learning approach including 4 days of in-person sessions and online e-modules to be completed before and after the in-person session.
• Self-directed briefing documents, online training and external resources accessed through the volunteer portal
• Online health briefing
• Fundraising 101 Webinar

In-Country Training and Learning:

• You will receive an In-Country Orientation (ICO) that builds upon the pre-departure training. This will be conducted by either the country program office or the supporting partner organization. This normally lasts for 2-10 days (depending on language learning requirements and other factors). In some countries, volunteers will be able to access ongoing language training opportunities. In-Country Orientation equips you with the relevant skills, knowledge, and country-specific information to be successful in your placement. Furthermore, our Country Program Office or local partner will provide you with continuous in-country support throughout the duration of your placement.

Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse:

• Cuso International works with poor, vulnerable and marginalized people, mainly women and girls, to eradicate poverty and inequality. We understand the need to uphold and enforce the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct.
• At Cuso International, we believe that all people, regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed (religion), sex, age, record of offences, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity or disability have the right to live lives free of harassment, sexual exploitation and abuse.
• Cuso International considers all forms of harassment, sexual exploitation and abuse to be incompatible with fundamental belief in the human dignity of all people, international and national agreements and standards, and with its core values. Cuso International volunteers must agree to uphold the Child Protection, Prevention of Workplace Violence, Prevention of Workplace Harassment and Discrimination, and Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Polices and Code of Conduct.