Express an Interest

Targeting:

The Volunteer Lead – Young Ambassadors Program provides strategic leadership,governance linkage, and operational oversight of the Young Ambassadors (YA) cohort. The role ensures that youth engagement initiatives are aligned with the strategicdirection, values, and advocacy priorities of Dying With Dignity Victoria (DWDV).

Acting as both a leader and representative, the Volunteer Lead serves as the primary conduit between the YAs and the DWDV Board, supporting informed decision-making,effective program delivery and meaningful youth participation in the organisation’s work.https://youtu.be/PuFRPGoxGs4?si=5nqRCehmHJo4ivC7

Program Context and BackgroundDWDV established the Young Ambassadors program with a small group of highlymotivated young people, formally launching in 2024, generating strong national interestand ongoing organic growth. The program now includes approximately 20–30participants across Australia, with a smaller core group actively engaged, as well as anemerging international cohort.Participation is centred on monthly online meetings, supported by active digitalcommunication channels (e.g. WhatsApp), with sessions often including guest speakersand training opportunities such as media training and expert advocacy discussions.The program is designed to support passionate young people to become effectiveadvocates by providing tools, training and platforms to contribute meaningfully to end-of-life policy, awareness and reform.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership and Oversight:

• Provide clear, values-based leadership to the YA program
• Set direction and priorities aligned with DWDV’s strategic plan
• Support sustainable program growth and evolution, recognising participationconstraints and engagement variability

2. Governance and Board Engagement

• Serve as the formal representative of the YAs on the DWDV Board (if applicable)or attend Board meetings as required
• Provide regular updates on YA activities, outcomes, and emerging issues
• Act as a conduit between Board priorities and YA activities

3. Program Coordination and Delivery

• Lead development and implementation of YA initiatives and projects
• Support member-led initiatives and collaborative advocacy efforts
• Monitor progress and maintain accountability for outcomes

4. Meetings and Facilitation

• Plan, convene and chair monthly YA meetings
• Coordinate agendas, guest speakers and training opportunities
• Ensure inclusive participation and effective facilitation
• Oversee documentation including minutes and action tracking

5. Recruitment, Engagement and Development

• Oversee recruitment, selection and onboarding of new YAs
• Foster a supportive and inclusive environment
• Encourage leadership development and active participation
• Maintain engagement across a geographically dispersed cohort

6. Communications and Administration

• Maintain communication channels and information sharing platforms
• Ensure clear, consistent communication and record-keeping
• Support coordination across national and international YA groups

7. External and Stakeholder Engagement

• Identify opportunities for partnerships, collaboration and profile-building
• Support media and advocacy engagement by YA members
• Engage with international YA initiatives and networks

8. Sustainability and Capacity Awareness

• Recognise structural challenges including reliance on key individuals andvolunteer capacity constraints
• Support approaches that reduce burnout risk and promote continuity
• Contribute to discussions on resourcing and future program models whererelevant

Time Commitment and Term

Estimated commitment: 6–10 hours per month, including:

• Monthly YA meeting (preparation, attendance, follow-up)
• Board reporting and/or attendance (as required)
• Ongoing coordination and communication
• Additional time may be required during peak periods

Term: Typically 12–24 months

Skills and Experience 

• Demonstrated commitment to DWDV’s mission and values
• Leadership and facilitation experience
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Ability to support and motivate volunteers
• Experience in advocacy, community engagement, or youth leadership (desirable)

Key Attributes

• Integrity, accountability and reliability
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to balance leadership with volunteer realities
• Commitment to inclusive and values-driven engagement