Application Guide

How to Apply for MHPSS Expert - East Africa

at Media in Cooperation and Transition

🏢 About Media in Cooperation and Transition

MiCT is a unique non-profit that combines media development with psychosocial support, operating in complex and conflict-affected regions across three continents. Working here means contributing to resilient societies by supporting journalists who face significant risks, making it a deeply impactful and mission-driven organization.

About This Role

This role is central to the MiCT Fellowship for Critical Voices program, providing essential psychosocial support to journalists and media professionals in East Africa. You will deliver individual and group sessions, assess needs, and offer trauma-informed care, directly enabling journalists to continue their vital work in crisis and conflict regions.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve conducting online individual therapy sessions with journalists, preparing and facilitating group support sessions via video conferencing, and coordinating with program staff to assess fellows' needs. You would also spend time documenting sessions, planning interventions, and possibly developing self-care resources for journalists in the network.

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🎯 Who Media in Cooperation and Transition Is Looking For

  • A licensed or certified psychosocial counsellor with proven qualifications and experience in trauma-related support.
  • Experienced in assessing and coordinating MHPSS needs, with the ability to design and deliver both individual and group interventions.
  • Skilled in providing care to individuals in active crisis or conflict zones, preferably with journalists or media workers.
  • Fluent in English (required) and ideally also Arabic, with excellent communication and cross-cultural sensitivity.
  • Comfortable working remotely and facilitating online group therapy sessions, with a flexible schedule to accommodate different time zones.

📝 Tips for Applying to Media in Cooperation and Transition

1

Highlight your specific experience with trauma and crisis counseling, especially in East Africa or similar contexts, using concrete examples.

2

Emphasize any previous work with journalists or media professionals, as this is a key requirement and shows understanding of the unique pressures they face.

3

Demonstrate your ability to work remotely and manage online group sessions, including any tools or platforms you use.

4

Tailor your CV and cover letter to mention MHPSS needs assessment and coordination, as these are core responsibilities.

5

Research MiCT's projects and the Fellowship for Critical Voices to show genuine interest and alignment with their mission.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for supporting journalists' mental health and resilience in high-risk environments.", 'Your specific experience in trauma-informed care and group facilitation, with examples of impact.', 'Your ability to work independently and remotely while maintaining high ethical standards and confidentiality.', 'Your understanding of the East African context and cultural sensitivity, and how you can adapt your approach accordingly.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore MiCT's website and recent projects to understand their approach to media development and psychosocial support.
  • → Look into the 'Fellowship for Critical Voices' program to understand its goals, target participants, and impact.
  • → Research the media landscape and journalist safety issues in East Africa to demonstrate awareness of the context.
  • → Check MiCT's social media and news articles to see their recent activities and any mentions of MHPSS work.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience providing psychosocial support in conflict or crisis settings. What challenges did you face and how did you handle them?
2 How would you assess the MHPSS needs of a group of journalists? What tools or frameworks do you use?
3 How do you adapt your counseling techniques for online group sessions? What are the challenges and benefits?
4 How do you ensure confidentiality and self-care when dealing with traumatic stories?
5 Why are you interested in working with MiCT specifically, and how does this role align with your career goals?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid a generic cover letter that doesn't mention MiCT or the specific fellowship program.
  • Don't overlook the remote aspect – emphasize your experience and comfort with online counseling and group facilitation.
  • Avoid understating the importance of trauma-informed care; be clear about your qualifications and experience in this area, not just general counseling.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: August 17, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Media in Cooperation and Transition!

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