Volunteer Academic Mentor (English)

What will you be doing?

As part of our Enabling Freedom Network programme we offer university scholarships, English language guidance, social leadership workshops and career planning support to North Koreans. Each of our programme participants has a different support needs for their course, preparing for life after studies and gaining relevant English. We are seeking a volunteer based in Ireland, the UK, Western Europe or South Korea to meet online with one of our Enabling Freedom Network scholarship recipients online for one hour on a weekly basis and teach English and/or provide conversation practice ahead of postgraduate studies.

What are we looking for?

Have either a relevant Teaching English as a Foreign Language qualification or three years experience of providing English communication support to others Be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds To be reliable, patient and punctual A personal device with good WiFi connection To attend any necessary General and Safeguarding Training sessions To be 18 years or older

And be able to provide guidance on the following:

English conversation practice and building confidence in speaking fluently Academic writing skills, how to put together an essay and relevant English vocabulary Exam preparations, ideally for IELTS although general exam preparation skills are also useful What to expect at university, the different options available What to expect after university

What difference will you make?

North Koreans leaving the country all face unique and significant economic, political, cultural and societal differences which are barriers to them building new lives in each of these new countries. There are many barriers to overcome for North Koreans to integrate and improve their circumstances. The cultification of the Kim regime is so central to North Korea life that educational qualifications are geared towards serving the leadership rather than empowering North Korean people. These incompatible qualifications ensure North Korean escapees struggle to find good jobs after finding freedom. Connect: North Korea exists to help North Koreans to overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives through our programmes and you can contribute through volunteering.