Brief Description:

DURATION: 8 months

EXPECTED DEPARTURE DATE: Departure date is contingent upon completion of administrative file and approval of visa. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and position will remain open until filled.

OVERVIEW:
Uniterra is a leading Canadian international volunteer cooperation and development program, jointly implemented by the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI) and World University Service of Canada (WUSC).

Uniterra contributes to improving the socio-economic conditions of poor and marginalized communities in 14 countries and with over 200 partners in Africa, Asia and the Americas through the exchange of expertise and knowledge of Canadian and international volunteers. Uniterra believes that economic growth, when inclusive, is the most powerful driver of poverty reduction. The purpose of the Uniterra program is to improve the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable populations by stimulating growth and facilitating access to the benefits of growing and diversified markets. To make this happen, we are working with our local partners to enhance the income of poor and marginalized women and youth through better access to employment and income generation opportunities. Uniterra country program staff work with our local partners to design Uniterra assignments in the context of the country strategy, supporting the inclusion of women and youth in key economic subsectors.

For more information on the Uniterra program, our approach and countries of focus please visit: Uniterra.ca

PARTNER DESCRIPTION:
COMSIP is a member owned union of savings and investment cooperatives across Malawi that promotes the growth and sustainability of member-owned cooperatives through flexible products and services. They are working to become leaders in promoting a vibrant, sustainable culture of savings and investment amongst Malawians in rural and peri-urban communities. This includes collaborating with stakeholders to mobilize domestic savings for sustainable social and economic development and creating opportunities for access to financial and marketing services. To learn more visit comsip.org.mw/

The Cooperative Governance Advisor volunteer will contribute toward Uniterra Program objectives by supporting the capacity development of COMSIP staff and members in governance and business management.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct an organizational review, including the participation of women and youth in associations and cooperatives;
- Support the identification of institutional governance gaps and make suggestions for addressing them;
- As necessary, provide training or mentorship to partner staff and cooperative members on improving cooperative management and governance;
- Identify business management knowledge gaps and provide training for staff and cooperative members;
- Promote the equal participation and representation of women and youth in all program activities; and
- Produce reports as required by COMSIP and the Uniterra program.

QUALIFICATIONS:
- Degree or diploma in management, development studies or a related discipline
- Demonstrated experience in institutional governance
- Knowledge of cooperative management and development, with experience being an asset
- Strong training and facilitation skills, preferably including training the trainer
- Experience in multicultural environments overseas

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT:
- Support and guidance prior to departure and while on assignment in country.
- Participation in a pre-departure training where you will have the opportunity to learn about the program, gain practical skills for living and working in an intercultural context and meet other volunteers. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.
- In-country orientation and briefing upon arrival in-country.
- Language training in-country where required.
- Return flights, visas and work permits.
- Cost of required country specific vaccinations and antimalarials.
- Health insurance.
- Modest monthly living allowance while overseas.
- Accommodation while overseas.
- Vacation leave entitlement.
- Return debriefing in Canada after completion of assignment. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.
- An incredible opportunity to enhance your professional skills and participate in an experience of a lifetime!

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada between the age of 18-70.
- Departure date is contingent upon the timely completion of all administrative requirements (e.g. visa processes, medical clearance, police checks, travel documentation).
- With the support of the program, all volunteers shall undertake to make a minimum financial contribution of $1,500 for participating in the program.

TO APPLY VISIT:
http://agora.ceci.ca/SGC/WUSProje.nsf/va_WPO/8926E69001DD0064852582DC0047FE5B?OpenDocument&lg=enok

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