Be Part of Afrika Handmade 2016: Call for Volunteers

 

For the past two years, we have hosted Afrika Handmade Gallery and Symposium, an annual event focusing on contemporary artisan and design.

The only event of its kind, we recognize that setting high standards and surpassing them at each subsequent event is not an option. We also recognize that we cannot do it without a team of dedicated, like minded individuals who are as committed and as driven as we are.

We would therefore like to invite applications for volunteers as below.

Please note that these are unpaid positions. However, we will provide transport compensation, one meal + refreshments, a ‘Handmade Goodness’ hamper containing some of our favorite products and ofcourse, the opportunity to be a part of the sector’s premier event.

To apply, send in a brief statement (less than 300 words) stating

  • the position you are applying for
  • previous experience in the position applied for
  • your motivation for applying and
  • what you expect to gain from the experience
Send the statement, attaching a one page summary of your CV to craft@craftafrika.org before Friday 22 July 2016, 5pm EAT.

*We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Volunteer coordinator

The Volunteer coordinator is a managerial position and involves supervising, providing direction, coordination and consultation for all other volunteer functions.

Duration of contract: 30 September-17 October 2016

8am- 5pm weekdays

10am- 6pm weekends

Who we are looking for:

  • A tertiary level education
  • Job-related experience, such as working in a volunteer program or project team leader
  • Great interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and for long hours handling a variety of roles
  • Self driven and committed
  • Ability to handle a diverse team with fairness and firmness when necessary
  • Ability to resolve team conflict
  • Willingness to adjust hours to accommodate the needs of the role
  • Ability to work productively in an unstructured environment with frequent interruptions

Main tasks:

  • Coordinate and support all volunteers as per roles and responsibilities
  • Develop and manage volunteer procedures and standards of service
  • Ensure the well being of volunteer crew
  • Conduct daily meetings to address any challenges encountered and motivate team for day’s work
  • Act as liaison between volunteer crew and project coordinator
  • Handle stipend payments + records for all crew
  • Maintain activity reports on volunteer participation
  • Act as the single point of contact for communications within the crew
  • Resolve grievances and promote cooperation and interest
  • Liaise with venue management to ensure Gallery and surrounding area is spotless at all times
  • Assist with setup and takedown of installation
  • Respond to queries and direct appropriately

Gallery attendants (4 positions)

The Gallery attendants are the first point of contact with visitors to the installation. These volunteers will be expected to attend a half-day training in August.

Duration of contract: 30 September – 17 October 2016

8am- 5pm weekdays

10am- 6pm weekends

Who we are looking for:

  • A tertiary level education
  • Poise and self-confidence
  • Great interpersonal + communication skills
  • Able to work under minimal supervision but also effectively as part of a team
  • High standard of personal presentation
  • Ability to respond to high-pressure situations with calm
  • A strong ability to multitask
  • Willing to undertake a variety of tasks as needed
  • Ability to work under pressure and for long hours handling a variety of roles
  • Willingness to adjust hours to accommodate the needs of the job

Main tasks:

  • Ensure the gallery floor is always in pristine condition
  • Assist in set up and take down of installation
  • Hand out catalogs
  • Conduct gallery tours as necessary
  • Respond to any queries on exhibitors
  • Communicate and/or act on behalf of exhibitors
  • On occasion, assist with an evening special event program
  • Secure and cordon off exhibition area at the end of the day
  • Take inventory at the beginning of the day
  • Assist with sales during the open market weekend
  • Encourage and document visitor feedback
  • Uphold and explain the ‘no photograph policy’

Symposium usher 

The main focus of this position is the well-being and comfort of participants attending the symposium.

Duration of contract: 5 -7 October 2016

8am- 5pm everyday

Who we are looking for:

  • Tertiary level education
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Proactive attitude
  • Ability to multi task

Main tasks:

  • Man the registration desk
  • Arrange room as necessary
  • Ensure all audio visual equipment is working
  • Liaise with caterer to ensure food and refreshments are served on time
  • Ensuring program starts and ends on time (time keeping)
  • Manage any learning aides as requested by speaker
  • Respond to general queries from participants
  • Collect all workshop evaluation forms for filing
  • Make a daily report of day’s feedback from participants

Aide to presenters 

This role is responsible for ensuring the well being of speakers.

Duration of contract: 5 -7 October 2016

8am- 5pm everyday

Who we are looking for:

  • Tertiary level education
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Proactive attitude
  • Ability to carry out multiple tasks
  • Willingness to adjust hours to accommodate the needs of the job

Main tasks:

  • Organize and accompany airport transfers for international speakers
  • Organize daily ground transfers (to and from the venue) of speakers
  • Act as point of contact for all speakers
  • Ensure speakers are aware of their speaking slots, directions to the venue etc
  • Welcome and usher speakers into the room
  • Ensure parking availability
  • Collect digital versions of all presentations made and make them available to rapporteur