Gender DynamiX is a non-governmental organization (NGO) working to protect the rights of transgender, transsexual and gender nonconforming people on a national level. We provide assistance and referrals about trans health and legal information. Gender DynamiX consults with trans people and their significant others, friends, families and allies (SOFFA’s) and liaises with their employers. Education workshops and seminars are one of the organisations main activities. We are based in Cape Town, but work nationally.

We are seeking an Advocacy Coordinator, who will be primarily responsible for advocacy around national policies relevant to the development, equality and human rights of transgender people. This work will need to be backed up by research and the dissemination of strategic information. The incumbent will be responsible for related research and gender diversity advocacy in South Africa, particularly related to medical, legal and administrative functions of government and the private sphere. This position will offer the holder an opportunity to work on very exciting advocacy initiatives and campaigns in a very stimulating, multicultural and dynamic environment. About 30% of work time is travel related, mostly national travel. The position may involve some travel within Africa and other parts of the world too.

Responsibilities will include:

• Conduct advocacy-related research in state departments such as Home Affairs, State Hospitals, Medical facilities and Health Care providers pertaining to gender diversity;
• Network and build relationships with administrative and healthcare officials in the public and private sector
• Develop educational initiatives and undertake public advocacy relating to gender diversity in South Africa;
• Work with the GDX team on putting together publications, meetings and conference presentations.
• Encouraging research on the mainstreaming of transgender issues particularly focused around health and gender markers
• Raising awareness about transgender issues in South Africa
• Coordinating the advocacy related projects,
• Undertaking and/or commissioning research in support of the advocacy projects
• Conceptualising new advocacy projects, in line with the organisational strategic plan
• Participate in the organisational monitoring, evaluating and reporting on the advocacy projects
• Advising the Executive Director as to any needs relating to the Advocacy Projects
  

Qualifications, experience and other requirements

• A degree in social sciences and a masters degree in a relevant field will be an added advantage
• Knowledge of and experience in conducting research and organising advocacy initiatives at national, (regional and international levels)
• Analytical, creative, strategic and problem-solving skills
• Good communications, interpersonal and networking skills, including the ability to work with a diverse range of people and organisations on national, regional and international levels
• Diplomatic, lobbying and political skills
• Pro-active and self-motivated with the ability to work very well within a team environment
• Good time management skills, including the ability to work towards deadlines
• Computer literacy, including electronic networking skills
• Project development, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and report-writing skills.
• Some experience in facilitation and presentation
• At least 1 language other than English will be an added advantage
  Willingness and ability to travel and work outside official working hours.
• 3 years relevant experience
• Proven track record of achieving results which includes coordinating of projects, partners and resources
  

Please provide a copy of your curriculum vitae, and a covering letter including:

• Your motivation for applying for this position,
• An explanation of your relation or understanding of Gender identity and trans issues.
• Examples of previous advocacy work experience. 
• Three contactable references. 
• An indication of your availability date
• Gender DynamiX is an equal opportunities employer. A salary in accordance with qualification and experience will be offered.
  

Closing date: 31 March 2012.  
Please e-mail applications to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

ONLY SHORT-LISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED.  Gender DynamiX reserves the right not to make an appointment.  Should you not have received a response within two weeks of the closing date, please consider that your application was unsuccessful.

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