Summary

The Embassy and Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in South Africa is looking for six (6) new members to our Youth Advisory Committee (YAC).

The YAC serves as a sounding board to the Embassy and Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in South-Africa. Youth Advisors help put the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs’  Youth at Heart   strategy into practice by helping to ensure that the work of the Dutch Missions in South Africa is responsive and relevant to and involve youth.

Members are appointed for a term of two years. The members of the Committee will work both in cooperation and individually on topics of their expertise aligned with the Dutch Missions’ priorities, such as education, innovation, human rights, climate, culture, (geo)politics, trade, agriculture, and defense.

The YAC consists of eight young people who will gain experience and knowledge of the work of the Embassy/Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and provide advice on its policies and strategies, while youth-proofing the Embassy activities and initiatives. The YAC is an advisory body and holds no decision-making power. Participation in the YAC is voluntary and not compensated. Travel and YAC events costs are covered by the Embassy. 

Added value for members

While YAC membership is voluntary, youth advisors stand to benefit by expanding their networks and knowledge of the above listed topics in relation to the Netherlands and South Africa and the workings of the world of diplomacy.

Criteria

The Council is open to young people who are: 

• Aged between 18 and 35 
• Based in Gauteng or the Western Cape
• South African citizens or permanent residents
• Professionally proficient in English
• Able to communicate online
• Proactive and assertive 
• Representing a relevant constituency of youth in South-Africa
• Available for approximately an hour per week to fulfill their role in the YAC.
• Flexible as involvement may vary. 
• Preferably affiliated with policy officers and partner organizations of the Embassy
• Available for two years, with intensity of work varying from week to week 

How to apply 
Please submit a CV and a motivation letter not longer than 500 words answering the following questions: 

• Why do you want to be a member of the Netherlands South-Africa Youth Advisory Committee?
• What do you have to offer in terms of expertise and interest to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in South Africa? 

The CV and motivation letter are to be submitted before Wednesday, 1 October 23:00 to  pre-pcm@minbuza.nl . If shortlisted you will be invited to an interview with the Policy Officer of the Embassy who oversees the YAC as well as existing YAC members. Final selections will take place towards the end of October, and the newly selected YAC members are expected to be available from Monday, 3 November onwards.