Communications Advisor - Legal (Volunteer)

Cuso International; Surrey; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A non-profit organization seeks a volunteer in Peru to support activities related to constitutional litigation awareness. The role includes drafting press materials, engaging with media, and coordinating communications. Ideal candidates will have a journalism degree and proficiency in Spanish and English, with at least 5 years of experience. Join to make a difference in marginalized communities.

Benefits

Monthly living allowance

Accommodation

Medical insurance

Round-trip airfare

Pre-departure training

Support during placement

Access to Employee Assistance Program

Bonus for extension

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in journalism or communications.
• Portfolio of recent work required.
• Knowledge of indigenous issues and climate change.

Responsibilities

• Support the ALC team's activities.
• Draft press releases and articles.
• Coordinate with media for public dissemination.

Skills

Journalism experience

Excellent Spanish skills (written and spoken)

Fluent in English (written and spoken)

Graphic design software proficiency

Photography and video production skills

Social media skills

Education

Degree in journalism, communications, or marketing

Job description

This Volunteer Placement is located in: Lima, Peru

Start Date: December 2025

Placement Length: 6 months with the possibility of extension

Language Requirements: Spanish Level 4-Advanced

Please submit a Spanish resume and statement of interest.

Eligibility: Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada only.

The Volunteer’s Role

Cuso International in Peru seeks an individual to support our partner organization, Instituto de Defensa Legal (IDL), in promoting and raising awareness of their Constitutional Litigation Area (ALC) activities and legal cases both nationally and internationally.

As a volunteer, you will work closely with the team to share updates on activities such as court judgments, legal hearings, reports, articles, briefs, and statements, depending on their significance.

You will collaborate with IDL's communications department to publicize activities through media outlets and engage with both local and foreign press in Peru. Responsibilities may include drafting press releases, capturing photographs and videos, writing articles, and sharing content via social media and other platforms.

You will also translate press releases, articles, and communications materials into English for international dissemination, distributing them among activist networks, NGOs, and IDL allies.

Additionally, you may broadcast press conferences and events via IDL's social media channels and participate in all ALC meetings, coordinating with team members in Lima and other provinces.

This position is based in Lima, working with a multidisciplinary team focused on monitoring public policies related to human rights, justice, security, environment, and indigenous peoples.

As a volunteer, you will:

• Support the work of the ALC team members.
• Evaluate the relevance of activities and coordinate their dissemination.
• Prepare press releases and articles for various media outlets.
• Coordinate with the IDL Communications Department for media dissemination.
• Accompany ALC activities in Lima and provinces.
• Develop strategies for social media publishing.
• Manage ALC publications.
• Establish contacts with national and foreign media outlets.
• Create communication materials and manage webinars and public events.

Essential Requirements:

• Degree in journalism, communications, or marketing with at least 5 years of experience.
• Excellent Spanish language skills (written and spoken).
• Fluent in English (written and spoken).

Essential Background:

• Experience in journalism and NGO communications, with a portfolio of recent work (press releases, photos, videos, articles, social media).
• Knowledge of indigenous issues, environmental pollution, and climate change.
• Proficiency in graphic design software and social media skills.
• Photography and basic video production skills, including editing.
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritize tasks.

What’s in it for YOU? A life-changing experience!

About Us, the Project, and the Partner

Cuso International is an organization working to create economic and social opportunities for marginalized groups, focusing on gender equality and social inclusion, economic resilience, and climate action. Founded in 1961, operating in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada.

We value individuals committed to supporting marginalized groups, including LGBTQIA+ communities.

Project - Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (SHARE)

Funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), this seven-year project (2020-2027) aims to improve the well-being of marginalized populations, especially women and girls, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting inclusive, sustainable development initiatives.

Partner - Instituto de Defensa Legal

Founded in 1983, IDL is a Peruvian NGO dedicated to human rights advocacy, legal defense, judicial reform, governance, citizen security, and indigenous and women's rights.

Benefits

Terms and Conditions

Cuso International offers a modest lifestyle aligned with local standards, covering basic living expenses. This does not include home-based expenses or luxury items.

Support Package

• Monthly living allowance
• Accommodation
• Medical insurance (including vaccinations)
• Round-trip airfare and visa costs
• Pre-departure training, in-country orientation, and debriefing
• Support from Cuso International and local partners during placement
• Access to Employee Assistance Program
• Bonus: Additional return flight or cash after 12 months for extensions

Selection Requirements

If shortlisted, you must:

• Confirm passport or PR details
• Provide references
• Complete a language assessment
• Obtain police clearance
• Complete a medical exam and be cleared
• Be double vaccinated against COVID-19

We provide training and resources to prepare you for your placement, including support from a Volunteering Mobilization Advisor and online training modules.

Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse

Cuso International upholds high standards of conduct, emphasizing the protection of vulnerable populations and adherence to policies against harassment, exploitation, and abuse.

Residency and Citizenship

Applicants outside Canada must ensure they understand the implications of leaving their country regarding immigration and residency status. It is the applicant's responsibility to verify and manage these issues with local authorities.