Eligibility: Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada only
This is a volunteer placement in : Parakou, Benin
Start date: November 2026
Assignment duration: 5 months
Language requirements: French
Role of the volunteer
Put your expertise to work for a fairer and more sustainable future. In Benin, Cuso International supports women and young people in urban and rural areas to strengthen their economic empowerment, climate resilience, and access to inclusive opportunities. Working alongside civil society organizations, women's and youth networks and associations, you will contribute to creating an environment conducive to gender equality, supporting concrete environmental initiatives, and fostering green economic prospects in promising sectors.
DEDRAS NGO will be the main partner organization for this assignment. You will also be able to use your skills with other partner organizations of the SHARE Volunteer Cooperation Program, allowing you to amplify your impact and contribute to solutions tailored to local realities.
Your role : Working closely with the program manager in Benin, you will collaborate with the partner organization, the program team, and other volunteer staff in the country. Your contribution will foster knowledge sharing, strengthen local capacity, and implement sustainable solutions.
The volunteer will be required to carry out the following activities:
- Contribute to the completion of environmental assessments and the analysis of training and capacity building needs.
- Design practical tools to reduce the risks to which women and young women are exposed due to climate change.
- To train people supported by DEDRAS NGO in agroecological production techniques, including sustainable soil and water management and the use of natural inputs.
- Identify technical and financial partners active in the field of the environment.
- Create a clear and accessible fact sheet outlining funding opportunities and key application procedures.
Essential academic skills:
- University degree in environment, climate change, agronomy, agroecology, sustainable development, natural resource management or in a related field.
- Education or equivalent experience demonstrating a solid understanding of environmental issues, climate adaptation and community development.
Essential professional skills:
- At least five years of relevant experience in environment, climate change, agroecology, sustainable agriculture or international development.
- Proven experience in needs analysis, training design and capacity building for diverse audiences.
- Ability to work independently with limited resources, while collaborating effectively within an intercultural team.
- Experience working with non-profit organizations, civil society organizations, or local communities.
About Us
Cuso International (Cuso) is an international cooperation and development organization based in Canada that works to create social and economic opportunities for equity-deserving groups. Building on over sixty years of impactful work, we address global challenges by tackling the root causes of inequality. Working alongside our partners, we are focused on efforts to improve economic resilience, advance equity and inclusion for all, and deliver progress on climate action. We believe that by sharing skills, we can build better futures. Guided by our values of courage, inclusion, sustainability and accountability, Cuso combines innovative strategies and enduring partnerships to create lasting, meaningful change in communities across Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada.
Support Package
Cuso International provides a comprehensive support package to ensure volunteers maintain a modest and healthy lifestyle aligned with local standards. This includes:
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation
- Health insurance (including required vaccinations and antimalarial medication)
- Round-trip airfare and visa/work permit costs
- Pre-placement, in-country and reintegration training (along with access to self-directed materials and online resources)
- Ongoing local support
- Access to the Employee Assistance Program during and after placement
Selection and Screening
If you are shortlisted, you will need to:
- Confirm passport or permanent resident details for travel
- Provide two professional references and one personal reference
- Complete a language assessment during the initial phone interview
- Pass a police check and medical clearance before departure
- Comply with anti-terrorism checks
Residency and Citizenship: Candidates are responsible for confirming how volunteering internationally may affect their citizenship or residency status. Canadian Permanent Residents should verify requirements with Immigration Canada before travel.
Inclusion and Accessibility: Cuso International welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and equity-deserving groups. We provide reasonable accommodations throughout recruitment and placement. If you have accessibility needs, please contact us for support.
Ready to Make a Difference? Apply to volunteer today!
