Apply to Join the Refugee Advisory Committee for Canadian Orientation Abroad in Canada: (Deadline 31 May, 2024)

Canadian Orientation Abroad (COA), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Government of Canada, is inviting formerly resettled refugees to apply for a position on its Refugee Advisory Council (RAC) as Refugee Advisors. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute your valuable experiences and insights to help shape pre-arrival orientation programs for future refugees.

Position Information

Position Title: Refugee Advisor – Canadian Orientation Abroad

Contract Type: Consultancy Category B

Place of Duty: Local (Canada)

Work Modality: Home-based (remote); may require occasional evening work to accommodate time zone differences.

Contract Duration: 7 months

Compensation: Hourly Fee – CAD $40, up to a maximum of 70 hours for the entire duration of the contract.

Application Deadline: 31 May 2024

Expected Start Date: 1 August 2024

Organizational Context and Scope

Since 1998, the COA program has been providing essential pre-arrival information and orientation sessions to refugees approved for resettlement in Canada, operating in over 100 locations worldwide. We are now looking for dedicated individuals to join our Refugee Advisory Council (RAC) and contribute to this impactful work. Under the supervision of the COA Senior Curriculum Assistant in Ottawa, Refugee Advisors will offer recommendations and feedback to enhance the COA program through structured engagement within the RAC.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Collaborate with COA staff and other RAC Advisors to amplify refugee voices and provide targeted feedback on pre-arrival orientation topics, such as travel, supports and services, housing, health, and employment.
• Actively participate in monthly virtual RAC meetings, sharing migration experiences, discussing viewpoints, and formulating recommendations.
• Prepare for meetings by reviewing materials and completing preparatory work.
• Provide input on pre-arrival orientation materials tailored to refugees’ needs through surveys, feedback forms, user testing, and focus groups.
• Review and provide feedback on program initiatives, curricula, and resources, including fact sheets, videos, apps, and digital platforms.
• Participate in individual video interviews for COA session development and public awareness.
• Perform up to one (1) duty travel for an in-person RAC meeting.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Experience

• Passion for innovation and refugee leadership.
• Availability and interest to work on a temporary, consultancy basis.
• Ability to commit to 5-10 hours per month for 7 months.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience resettling to Canada as a refugee.
• Experience in providing constructive feedback.
• Knowledge of the challenges faced by refugees during resettlement.
• Experience in advocacy or non-profit sector projects is an asset.

Skills

• Ability to analyze and interpret information from various sources.
• Capability to follow instructions and complete tasks on time.
• Attention to detail.
• Basic digital literacy, including the ability to join Zoom calls and review online documents.
• Access to a personal computer or tablet with a stable internet connection.

Languages

Required: Proficiency in English to participate in discussions and provide feedback.

Notes

IOM welcomes applications from qualified individuals, irrespective of their race, religion, skin color, nationality, age, disability status, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family structure, mental health status, or any other characteristic. IOM’s policies encourage a workplace free from discrimination and any form of harassment. Visit our website for more information about diversity and inclusion at IOM.

To apply for this position, read the FAQ here and submit this application form by 23:59 EDT on 31 May 2024. Please contact coaoce@iom.int for questions and inquiries regarding the application process.