Public Information Assistant
Plan and organize awareness events for the United Nations initiatives in Abyei.
Overview
Plan and organize awareness events for the United Nations initiatives in Abyei.
You have:
- Experience in translation, community outreach, event management, public relations, graphic design, and website management/design is required.
- Solid computer skills, including full proficiency in PowerPoint and various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc) and other IT applications and office technology equipment.
- Strong and proven knowledge of graphic design software, including InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Ability to operate digital recording equipment.
- Ability to adapt to challenging living and working conditions, including extreme temperatures, seasonal flooding, and limited infrastructure.
- Ability to comply with all UN security regulations and be prepared to work in a dynamic environment.
Contract
This is a UNV contract. More about UNV contracts.
This position is located in the Strategic Communication and Public Information Office of the United Nations Mission Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), located at the mission headquarters in Abyei. The incumbent directly reports to the Chief Strategic Communication and Public Information Officer.
Under the direct supervision of the Chief Strategic Communications and Public Information Officer, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: •Plan and organize thematic awareness-raising events by employing drama, dance, music, sports and other entertaining methods to promote the mandate and priorities of UNISFA and garner better understanding of the Mission among the people of Abyei; •Conceptualize an outreach plan and produce on-point promotional materials such as posters, fliers, banners, photo panels, PowerPoint slides, and t-shirts; •Organize celebratory events for UN-related International Days (e.g. International Day of UN Peacekeepers on 29 May, International Day of Peace on 21 September, and United Nations Day on 24 October) and assist other partners in organizing other "International Day" events; •Create and maintain networks of contacts with high profile officials and influencers in Abyei, including the local administration, traditional leaders, civil society groups, faith-based groups, women and youth organizations, local media and other relevant actors, and contact them directly at a moment’s notice; •Screen and analyze local media and produce informative media monitoring reports for the Mission leadership; ••Travel within the Mission Area of Operation, to cover stories and events; •Supervise the efficient physical distribution of SCPI print products (e.g. calendars, leaflets, brochures) within UNISFA and to other stakeholders; •Assist in the capacity building of Abyei Journalist Association and other relevant stakeholders; Write and edit content on UNISFA outreach activities, and contribute to the UNISFA Web site, Facebook and other platforms, as well as research and generate content for outreach-related promotional materials; •Design clear, engaging graphic materials catered to target audiences, using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and/or InDesign (e.g. logos, branded promotional materials, web site and social media graphics, posters, flyers, publication layout and other marketing materials as needed); •Perform administrative functions in the SCPIO section including procurement and budgeting including carrying out daily administrative functions in the section. •Perform other duties as assigned by CPIO and Spokesperson.
Expected Results / Outputs •Produce timely media monitoring reports and analyses to support informed decision-making by Mission leadership. •Increase public awareness and understanding of UNISFA’s mandate and priorities through effective outreach activities and community engagement. •Organize and coordinate UN International Days and other high-profile events to enhance UNISFA’s visibility and stakeholder engagement. •Build and maintain strong relationships with local administration authorities, community leaders, civil society organizations, media, and other key stakeholders. •Cover mission activities through field reporting, photography, videography, storytelling, and multimedia content production. •Ensure effective distribution of communication and outreach materials to targeted audiences across the Mission area. •Support the strengthen of the capacity of local journalists and stakeholders through training, mentoring, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. •Create engaging content for the UNISFA website, social media platforms, and other communication channels. •Design professional graphics and branding materials in line with UN communication standards. •Manage administrative, procurement, and budget-related tasks efficiently and in compliance with UN regulations. •Provide strategic communication support to the Chief Public Information Officer and Spokesperson to advance Mission Objectives.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) •Number of outreach events, campaigns, and public engagement activities conducted. •Increased stakeholder participation and community engagement. •Timely and high-quality media monitoring and analytical reports. •Number and reach of communication, promotional, and multimedia products produced. •Growth in website and social media engagement and visibility. •Number of capacity-building activities delivered for journalists and stakeholders. •Effective coverage and dissemination of UNISFA activities and key messages. •Timely completion of administrative, procurement, and budgeting tasks.
Furthermore, UN Volunteers are encouraged to integrate the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme mandate within their assignment and promote voluntary action through engagement with communities in the course of their work. As such, UN Volunteers should dedicate part of their working time to some of the following activities suggested: • Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark International Volunteer Day); • Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country; • Provide annual and end of assignment self-reports on UN Volunteer actions, results, and opportunities. • Contribute articles or write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publications, websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.; • Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly arrived UN Volunteers; • Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible.
Roles and Responsibilities of Host Entities UN Volunteers should be provided with equal duty of care as extended to all host entity personnel. Host entity support to the UN Volunteer includes, but is not limited to: • Introductory briefings about the organization and office-related context including security, emergency procedures, good cultural practice, and orientation to the local environment; • Support with arrival administration including setting up bank accounts, residence permit applications, and completion of other official processes as required by the host government or host entity; • Structured guidance, mentoring, and coaching by a supervisor including a clear workplan and performance appraisal; • Access to office space, equipment, IT support, and any other systems and tools required to complete the objectives of the assignment including a host entity email address; • Access to shared host entity corporate knowledge, training, and learning; • Inclusion of the volunteer in emergency procedures such as evacuations; • Leave management; • Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA) for official travel, when applicable; • All changes in the Description of Assignment occurring between recruitment and arrival or during the assignment need to be formalized with the United Nations Volunteer Programme; • Investigate misconduct: sharing reports with the UNV; • Provide emergency assistance, e.g., in the event of the death of a volunteer or medical evacuation, in collaboration with UNV. Accept letters of guarantees or potential liabilities for covering medical costs not claimable under medical insurance in extraordinary situations (e.g., isolation facilities’ services during pandemics).
•Accountability: Takes ownership of responsibilities, delivers results, and upholds the highest standards of integrity and accountability. •Adaptability and Flexibility: Adapts effectively to changing priorities, challenges, and diverse work environments while maintaining performance. •Creativity: Applies innovative thinking and resourceful problem-solving to improve processes and achieve results. •Judgement and Decision-Making: Exercises sound judgement and makes timely, informed decisions based on analysis and organizational priorities. •Planning and Organising: Effectively plans, prioritizes, and manages resources to achieve objectives within established timelines. •Professionalism: Demonstrates expertise, integrity, and commitment to the values, principles, and ethical standards of the United Nations. •Self-Management: Maintains resilience, professionalism, and effective workload management in demanding and dynamic environments
Experience in translation, community outreach, event management, public relations, graphic design, and website management/design is required. Solid computer skills, including full proficiency in PowerPoint and various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc) and other IT applications and office technology equipment. Strong and proven knowledge of graphic design software, including InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop. Ability to operate digital recording equipment.
This National UN Volunteer assignment is based in Abyei, a remote and non-family duty station characterized by challenging living and working conditions, including extreme temperatures, seasonal flooding, and limited infrastructure. National UN Volunteers are responsible for securing their own accommodation and meeting their daily living needs. Food options in the area may be limited, and volunteers should be prepared for restricted access to a variety of goods and services. Health risks, including malaria and other tropical diseases, require appropriate preventive measures and medical preparedness. Volunteers must also comply with all UN security regulations and be prepared to work in a dynamic environment where security and access conditions may change.
Living conditions in the UNISFA camp are basic residential camp facilities, which includes running water and electricity. National UNVs are not provided accommodation on the mission premises. The duty station is considered non - family duty stations for international staff. The security level of UNISFA is classified by the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) who will brief on arrival.
Potential interview questions
| Describe a situation where you successfully organized an outreach event. What challenges did you face? | The interviewer is assessing your event management skills and ability to overcome obstacles. | Provide a concise overview of the event, your role, and how you navigated challenges. |
| How do you ensure effective communication with diverse stakeholders in a community? | This question evaluates your communication and networking abilities across different groups. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you give an example of how you have used graphic design to enhance communication? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What steps do you take to produce high-quality media monitoring reports? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you handle tight deadlines when organizing events? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe a time you worked with local community leaders. What was the outcome? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you keep up with the latest trends in public information and outreach? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| In what ways can you contribute to capacity building of local journalists? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |