Youth Engagement Facilitator - Philippi at Desmond Tutu Health Foundation

About the Job

The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF) is a registered non-profit organisation focused on the pursuit of excellence in research, treatment, training and prevention of HIV and related infections in Southern Africa. 

We have fantastic job opportunities across our businesses for talented people wanting to realize their full potential. Could that be you? If so, we invite you to explore the possibility of joining us to play your part in Desmond Tutu Health Foundations’ exciting future.

Main purpose of this role is recruitment, retention, and project co-creation with young people in the Klipfontein/Mitchells Plain area. This role will be involved in frequent community dialogues and engagement and setup and maintain a youth PrEP club.

Minimum Requirements:

• Grade 12 Certificate or Equivalent
• Between the ages of 18-29
• At least 1 year experience of recruiting participants in a research/NGO environment
• At least 1 year experience of working with adolescents within the health sector
• Knowledge of HIV/AIDS, including PrEP
• Knowledge of public health and community resources
• Applicants must have knowledge of Klipfontein or surrounding areas with preference for applicants residing in these areas, and knowing the communities well
• MS Office proficiency (Word and Excel)
• Fluency in English and isiXhosa
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Excellent public speaking skills
• Good administrative skills
• Ability to build interpersonal relationships and maintaining rapport
• Excellent planning and organising skills
• Client (participant) focus
• Ability to work well under pressure and to maintain effectiveness during changing conditions
• Able to work independently and as a member of a team
• Must be detail orientated and have an interest in community engagement
• Willingness to travel locally and work irregular hours

Advantageous:

• A Valid Driver’s License (code8)
• A sound knowledge of geographical area (Klipfontein/Philippi) will be advantageous
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification

Responsibilities:

• Recruits potential FastPrEP study participants for FGDs and community dialogues
• Coordinates logistics and documentation for community dialogues
• Provides a welcoming and supportive environment for all participants
• Communicates with study coordinator regularly to discuss participants and accrual progress
• Oversee the FastPrEP youth club
• Assists Research Assistants and Social Science Interviewers in the conduct of Participatory Research in the Community
• Assists in demand creation materials and practices
• Contacts participants who have missed scheduled visits; keeps a regular check of all participants who have been contacted/visited
• Keeps a record of all visits carried out
• Meets weekly with the investigator, SCO and CLO to discuss recruitment, retention and content of Youth Reference Group
• Liaise with youth Community Advisory Board regarding study progress
• Performs all activities according to Good Clinical Practice Standards
• Works in a consistent ethical manner
• Maintains participant confidentiality at all times
• Provides basic information about PrEP to potential participants and basic HIV and ART education to other clients (individually and in groups)
• Responsible for ensuring that all study related data is entered accurately and timeously.
• Assist with filing research forms and patient files