Translation and Multilingual Content for the YouthConnekt Africa Summit 2026
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global network dedicated to helping countries achieve sustainable development and build better lives. UNDP Rwanda focuses on advancing sustainable development, inclusive economic growth, and democratic governance, with strategic priorities in digital transformation and health innovation. The YouthConnekt Africa platform, a partnership between the Ministry of Youth and Arts and UNDP, aims to connect young Rwandans to foster inclusive economic transformation and address youth employment challenges.
Job Purpose
This role supports the YouthConnekt Africa Summit 2026 by ensuring its content is accessible across the continent. The assignment involves translating written materials and subtitling session content from English into French, Arabic, Portuguese, and Kiswahili. The goal is to make the Summit's discussions and outcomes understandable to a wider audience, particularly young people who may follow news in languages other than English or French. This contribution is crucial for the Summit's continental reach and impact.
Responsibilities
Online Volunteers will translate various Summit-related content, including social media posts, key messages, FAQs, programme summaries, and short articles from English into their target language (French, Arabic, Portuguese, or Kiswahili). Responsibilities also include translating and timing subtitles for short videos and recorded session highlights. Post-Summit, volunteers will translate session summaries and confirmed outcomes. Key tasks involve building and maintaining a shared glossary of Summit terms for consistency, reviewing each other's translations for accuracy and tone, and flagging content that may not translate well culturally, suggesting adaptations. Volunteers must meet agreed turnaround times, with expedited delivery expected during the Summit week.
Work Experience
Proven experience in translation is required, with a preference for experience in development, policy, or communications content. Familiarity with economic, trade, or development terminology is an asset. Experience with subtitling tools is also considered an advantage.
Skills
Strong translation and interpretation skills are essential. Candidates should possess excellent written English and native/near-native proficiency in one of the target languages (French, Arabic, Portuguese, Kiswahili). Attention to detail and the ability to meet short deadlines are crucial. Familiarity with youth-related issues, partnerships, and resource mobilization is beneficial. Cultural sensitivity in translation is also important.