Multiple Lived-Experience Expert Contractor Positions Open

Looking for Speakers of Tagalog, Khmer, Tamil, Thai, Albanian, Hindi

Project Overview

The Center on Human Trafficking Research and Outreach (CenHTRO) at the University of Georgia School of Social Work is committed to conducting research that prioritizes the voices and experiences of survivors. Our current project focuses on understanding how individuals with lived experience of gender-based violence, particularly human trafficking, can meaningfully engage in research studies and program evaluations, especially in low-and-middle-income countries.

To achieve this goal, we are holding virtual focus group discussions with survivors across different global regions. These focus groups will provide a safe and empowering space for participants to share their insights and recommendations on how research can be conducted ethically and collaboratively with survivor communities. We believe that by centering the voices of those with lived experience, we can contribute to more effective and impactful research that ultimately supports survivor well-being and empowerment.

Job Description

We are seeking individuals with lived experience of human trafficking, or other forms of gender-based violence, to facilitate focus groups with other survivors in specific regions. As a Focus Group Facilitator, you will play a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive space for participants to share their experiences and perspectives. We are currently looking for people to facilitate focus groups in Cambodia, the Philippines, India, Thailand, Cambodia, and Albania.

Key Responsibilities:

●????? Attend Training and Meetings: Participate in project-related training and team meetings to ensure consistency and quality.

●????? Facilitate Focus Groups: Lead 1-2 focus group discussion(s) with survivors of human trafficking, ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment.

●????? Guide Conversations: Use a provided discussion guide to steer conversations while allowing for organic sharing and exploration of topics.

●????? Active Listening: Attentively listen to participants' experiences and perspectives, demonstrating empathy and understanding.

●????? Maintain Confidentiality: Ensure the confidentiality and anonymity of all participants and their shared information.

●????? Manage Group Dynamics: Facilitate a safe and supportive space for all participants, addressing any challenging dynamics that may arise.

●????? Note-Taking and Reporting: Observe and document key themes and insights from the focus group discussions.

●????? Adhere to Ethical Guidelines: Follow all ethical guidelines and protocols related to research involving human subjects.

The role will be completely virtual with supervision from CenHTRO staff in the US. This is a collaborative role, and we value your expertise and insights as an equal partner on our research team. We will provide comprehensive guidance, support, and ongoing supervision to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your role. We are committed to creating a safe and empowering environment for all team members.

Needed Skills*

●????? Basic understanding of qualitative research

●????? Experience facilitating groups or trauma-informed work with survivors

●????? Fluent level of written and spoken English

●????? Fluent level of one of the following languages: Tagalog, Khmer, Tamil, Thai, Albanian, Hindi

●????? Experience translating documents

●????? Consistent and reliable internet

*We recognize that lived experience is the most important qualification for this role. Even if you don't have all of the listed skills, we encourage you to apply. We are committed to providing thorough training and ongoing support to all team members.

Please note that this does not apply to language requirements.

Compensation

The contractor would be committed to 20-25 hours over a 2 month-period which would cover training, consultations with staff, group facilitation, and analytical input. Facilitators will be paid $25/hour, up to 25 hours.

How to Apply

Please send your resume (or explanation of experiences) to Elyssa Schroeder, Director of Survivor Engagement, at [email protected] with a description of why you think you would be a good fit for the contract position.