Volunteer Research and Data Assistant – Transforming Children and Youth Years Initiative Africa at Ashoka

This is an unpaid, volunteer opportunity

Role Overview:

The MERL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning) Assistant will play a critical role in designing a comprehensive framework for tracking both direct and indirect outputs of the initiative and in preparing a final project report aligned with Frey Foundation reporting requirements. This is a highly strategic and collaborative volunteer role suited for someone who thrives at the intersection of data, storytelling, systems thinking, and social impact.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Framework Design (Main Role)
• Design a robust MERL framework for tracking all outputs (quantitative and qualitative), including:
• Direct outputs: number of changemakers engaged, partners co-leading, interventions implemented
• Indirect outputs: reach of communications campaigns, youth influenced via partners, tools adopted (e.g., Changemaker Index)
• Ensure alignment with both Ashoka’s internal learning goals and Frey Foundation KPIs Project Reporting
• Lead the compilation and synthesis of data into a comprehensive project report
• Collaborate with Ashoka’s Frey Grant Manager to ensure the report meets all donor requirements, and reflects both impact and learning
• Use insights from MEL data to support strategic decision-making and external storytelling
• Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL)
• Support/ guide data collection across the 4 regions, working with youth leaders, Ashoka Fellows, and staff
• Contribute to internal learning products such as briefs, presentations, and reflection sessions
• Support testing and refinement of the Changemaker Index tool for young people under 18

Expected Impact
Your work will directly support Ashoka in delivering on its commitments to the Frey Charitable Foundation, including:

• Capturing the full scope of initiative outputs across the continent
• Supporting 10+ interventions with clear KPIs and success metrics
• Generating actionable insights to improve program delivery and scale
• Telling the story of youth-led impact in Africa through evidence and data

Benefits For Our Volunteer

• Professional Experience: Gain high-level experience with donor reporting, MEL frameworks, and systems change
• Networking: Collaborate with Ashoka Fellows, youth changemakers, and strategic partners across Africa
• Learning & Growth: Access Ashoka’s learning resources and thought leadership
• Recognition: Certificate of Completion, Letter of Reference, and potential publication opportunities