National Consultant on Youth Ecosystem Mapping and Youth Engagement
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. UNICEF Turkmenistan is implementing its Country Programme of Cooperation for 2026–2030, aligning with national priorities, children's rights, SDGs, and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. Climate action and youth are flagship areas.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this consultancy is to develop a comprehensive and practical evidence base on the youth ecosystem in Turkmenistan. This will inform UNICEF's programming and partnerships by systematically understanding existing youth initiatives, volunteer networks, youth interests, capacities, opportunities, and regional differences. The consultant will conduct a thorough mapping of the youth ecosystem and develop actionable tools and recommendations to enhance youth participation, volunteering, leadership, and youth-led initiatives. This initiative is crucial for designing more inclusive, relevant, and geographically balanced opportunities for young people, aligning with UNICEF's commitment to empowering youth as agents of change and strengthening climate resilience through education and engagement.
Responsibilities
Conduct a comprehensive mapping of the youth ecosystem in Turkmenistan, identifying key stakeholders, existing youth organizations, volunteer networks, and youth-led initiatives across all regions. Analyze current youth interests, capacities, and opportunities, paying attention to regional disparities and specific needs. Gather and synthesize data on youth engagement in climate action and other community development areas. Develop practical tools and methodologies for data collection and analysis related to the youth ecosystem. Formulate evidence-based recommendations for UNICEF and national partners to strengthen youth participation, volunteering, leadership, and youth-led action. Design strategies to enhance the inclusivity, relevance, and geographical balance of youth programming. Prepare a final report detailing the findings, analysis, and actionable recommendations, including proposed frameworks for future youth engagement. Present the findings and recommendations to UNICEF Turkmenistan and relevant stakeholders. Ensure the mapping process is participatory and involves youth representatives in data collection and validation where appropriate. Support the development of a consolidated evidence base to inform the design and implementation of UNICEF's Country Programme for 2026-2030.
Work Experience
At least 5 years of professional experience in youth development, programme management, research, or a related field. Experience in conducting ecosystem mapping or similar research in the context of Turkmenistan or similar countries is highly desirable.
Skills
Youth Engagement Strategies, Ecosystem Mapping, Research and Data Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Report Writing, Programme Design, Community Development, Project Management, Communication Skills, Knowledge of SDG Framework, Climate Action Awareness, Youth Leadership Development