Gender & Safeguarding Officer at Ethnocentrique Limited

Project Summary

The Fashion Future Program (FFP), implemented by Ethnocentrique, is a skills and local economic development initiative aimed at equipping young fashion enthusiasts and entrepreneurs, particularly women, with the resources and opportunities needed to excel in the competitive garment, footwear, and leatherwork segments of the Nigerian fashion industry. Through apprenticeship training, mentorship, cluster development, and advocacy, FFP aims to enhance local production and drive sustainable development within local communities. 

Position Overview

As the Gender & Safeguarding Officer, you will support the gender lead in ensuring Ethnocentrique’s program initiatives are inclusive and uphold the highest standards of safeguarding for all participants, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Your work will be to assist in creating a safe, empowering, and equitable environment, enabling program participants to succeed and thrive. This role emphasizes advocacy, capacity-building, and partnership to create lasting systemic change within the communities served.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the design and implementation of inclusion strategies for women and PWDs, ensuring their active and meaningful participation in the skills training and entrepreneurial initiatives.
• Integrate Gender learnings and findings into program design and implementation to ensure inclusivity and responsiveness to the diverse needs of participants.
• Collaborate in training and mentorship to master craft persons (MCPs), facilitators, staff and all major stakeholders on gender-sensitive practices, fostering an inclusive program culture.
• Develop tools and resources for staff and stakeholders to incorporate gender equity principles in their activities.
• Support awareness campaigns, trainings, and tracking on safeguarding policies among staff, stakeholders and program participants.
• Conduct periodic safeguarding risk assessments to address vulnerabilities in training halls, internships, and project locations.
• Develop and implement effective risk mitigation strategies, ensuring a safe and conducive learning and working environments for all.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and participants to amplify the program's impact and sustainability.
• Collaborate with program leadership to align Ethnocentrique’s policies with global gender and safeguarding standards.
• Ensure all activities comply with ethical and regulatory frameworks while promoting the dignity and safety of participants.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in gender studies, social work, international development, or a related field.
• 3+ years of professional experience in gender equality, safeguarding, and inclusion in development programs, with experience in skills training or livelihood programs being highly desirable.
• Proven track record in developing and executing gender-sensitive and safeguarding strategies, with measurable impact.
• Strong facilitation, advocacy, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and guide diverse teams.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with marginalized groups, especially women and PWDs, and tailor interventions to their unique needs.
• Commitment to ethical standards and promoting a culture of safety, dignity, and respect for all individuals.
• Familiarity with Nigerian cultural contexts and challenges related to gender equality and safeguarding.