Join UNICEF Zimbabwe as a Nutrition Youth Engagement Intern – Empower Young Voices for Healthier Futures

The Assignment

UNICEF Zimbabwe is seeking a Nutrition Youth Engagement Intern to support the Nutrition and Child Development Section in driving youth-focused initiatives. The intern will work closely with the Nutrition Specialist and other teams to promote nutrition among adolescents and school-aged children through advocacy, engagement, and education.

About UNICEF

UNICEF works in the world’s most challenging environments to reach the most disadvantaged children. Across 190 countries and territories, UNICEF strives to save lives, defend rights, and help every child reach their full potential regardless of who they are or where they live.

UNICEF’s mission is anchored in equity: ensuring that every child, especially the most excluded, has access to the services and support they need to survive and thrive. The Nutrition and Child Development section in Zimbabwe is at the forefront of driving change in child health, nutrition, and early development outcomes.

Context and Background

Undernutrition continues to affect Zimbabwe’s children at alarming rates, with 27% of under-five children stunted and 1.5% wasted. Severe food poverty affects around 530,000 children. Meanwhile, adolescent overweight and poor food environments are on the rise.

To address this, UNICEF Zimbabwe collaborates with government partners to improve food systems, promote healthy diets, and advocate for inclusive nutrition services. Youth engagement is vital to this work amplifying young voices and empowering adolescents to advocate for better nutrition and healthier food environments.

Also Read: SNV Seeks In-Field Training Support Consultant for Youth Empowerment Project in Murewa

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop concepts that enhance adolescent participation in nutrition and food systems.

  • Contribute to creating nutrition polls to gather youth perspectives and measure engagement.

  • Promote nutrition messages via youth groups, clubs, and organizations.

  • Facilitate dialogues with school-aged children and adolescents to amplify their voices.

  • Assist in designing content for staff and community nutrition campaigns.

  • Support the Youth Nutrition Ambassador with technical input and campaign assistance.

  • Mentor youth leaders, junior parliamentarians, and advocates to become agents of change.

  • Promote tech-based innovations to enhance nutrition outreach.

  • Perform other tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Expected Results

  • A network of active youth advocates informed on national nutrition issues.

  • Youth perspectives and lived experiences integrated into program design.

  • Increased awareness among young influencers of best practices in nutrition.

  • A collaborative and learning-focused work environment across teams.

Eligibility Criteria

Age: 18–80 years
Nationality: Must be a Zimbabwean national or legal resident
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Public Health, Sociology, Human/Child Development, or a related field
Language: Fluent English (oral and written); local language skills are an asset
Experience:

  • No prior professional experience required

  • Experience working with adolescents or in public health/nutrition initiatives is an added advantage

Desired Skills and Competencies

  • Passion for working with youth and promoting nutrition.

  • Strong communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.

  • Creativity, adaptability, and professionalism.

  • Proficiency in MS Office and digital tools.

  • Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

  • Commitment to UNICEF’s values, equity, and inclusive development.

Additional Information

  • This is a national assignment; the selected volunteer will arrange their own accommodation and daily needs.

  • Living conditions in Harare are generally stable with adequate access to healthcare, transport, and communications.

  • For full entitlements and allowances, refer to: https://app.unv.org/calculator

Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity

UNICEF and UNV are equal opportunity employers. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, or background. Reasonable accommodation is available for applicants with disabilities throughout the selection process and assignment.

How to Apply

Apply online through the UNV platform before 03 August 2025.
Join us in advocating for better nutrition and healthier futures for Zimbabwe’s young people.

 

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The post Join UNICEF Zimbabwe as a Nutrition Youth Engagement Intern – Empower Young Voices for Healthier Futures appeared first on iHarare News.

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