Fundraising research volunteer volunteer roles in manchester

Growth Pillar

Growth Pillar Malawi is an innovative and holistic entity geared to catalyse sustainable development and foster both individual and community resilience to environmental, systems and technological change through on-going research, evidence-based strategic policy analysis, programmatic innovation, and provision of technical assistance and enabling resources.

We work with a diverse portfolio of clients including corporate enterprises, financial institutions, public sector bodies, non-governmental organizations, families, and individuals.

Our multidisciplinary team brings together extensive local and international experience, sector-specific expertise, and a deep understanding of the dynamics shaping both local and global contexts. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, customized solutions through rigorous, participatory, and context-sensitive approaches.

Growth Pillar addresses complex and interrelated challenges through its integrated programs across research, entrepreneurship, agribusiness, and wellness. Here are the key challenges it solves:

1. Lack of Data-Driven Decision Making and Strategic Policy Implementation • Insufficient use of evidence in decision-making: Many organizations and policymakers operate without solid data, leading to ineffective programs and missed opportunities. • Disconnect between policy and implementation: Even well-designed policies often fail due to poor contextual understanding or weak execution mechanisms. • Inefficient use of development funding: Donor and public sector investments can be wasted without clear targeting or robust monitoring systems.

2. Entrepreneurial Barriers and Limited Business Growth • Early-stage business failure and stagnation: Many entrepreneurs struggle with refining their ideas, accessing funding, and building resilient models. • Lack of access to strategic guidance: Startups and SMEs often operate without experienced mentorship or market insights. • Youth unemployment and underemployment: Limited job opportunities leave young people disengaged and economically vulnerable.

3. Agricultural Underperformance and Climate Vulnerability • Low agricultural productivity and outdated practices: Smallholder farmers often lack access to modern technologies and inputs. • Lack of climate resilience: Climate change threatens food systems, but many farmers are unprepared to adapt. • Underutilization of innovation in agribusiness: Traditional farming systems often lack access to digital tools and innovative approaches.

4. Poor Mental Health, Well-being, and Social Support • Neglect of mental and emotional well-being: Individuals and teams frequently lack access to mental health support, leading to stress, burnout, and reduced performance. • Limited awareness and uptake of wellness services: Mental health remains stigmatized or under-prioritized in many cultures and workplaces.

5. Fragmented Development and Siloed Sector Approaches • Lack of integrated, cross-sector solutions: Development efforts often operate in silos, leading to inefficiencies and limited impact. • Weak collaboration among stakeholders: Governments, NGOs, and private entities often lack coordination and synergy. • Barriers to inclusive development: Marginalized groups frequently remain excluded from innovation, entrepreneurship, and social services.

Through our multidisciplinary team, we offer services in the following areas:

1. Research, Policy, Innovation and Development: We drive impact through evidence-based research, strategic policy analysis, and innovative development solutions. We generate actionable insights across sectors such as health, agribusiness, human development, and entrepreneurship; empowering clients with data-driven and proven approaches that foster informed decision-making and sustainable growth.

2. Entrepreneurship and Business Development: We empower entrepreneurs and businesses to grow, adapt, and thrive. We provide tailored support to refine ideas, overcome challenges, and scale sustainably. Through practical tools, expert guidance, and strategic insights, we help entrepreneurs successfully launch, manage, and expand their ventures in dynamic and competitive markets.

3. Agribusiness and Agricultural Development: We support agricultural transformation through innovative, sustainable, and market-driven solutions. We help clients enhance productivity, adopt climate-smart and resilient practices, and unlock opportunities across the agribusiness value chain. Our services align with global food security goals, contributing to resilient farming systems and inclusive growth in rural and agricultural communities.

4. Social, Health and Wellness: We promote holistic well-being by addressing the social, emotional, and physical health needs of individuals, families, and teams. We offer personalized support to improve mental wellness, strengthen relationships, and enhance productivity; by helping clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and lead healthier, more balanced lives at home, school, work, and beyond.

At Growth Pillar, we are driven by the belief that real change starts with people who care, people like you.

Volunteering with us is not just about giving your time. It’s about using your voice, your skills, and your passion to help build stronger communities, support meaningful causes, and be part of something bigger than yourself. Whether you are interested in research, entrepreneurship, agriculture, wellness, marketing, business development, social media management, human resources, etc., there is a place here for you to grow and contribute in ways that matter. You will be joining a team that values collaboration, creativity, and purpose. You will learn, connect with inspiring people, and work on real solutions to real challenges and make a tangible impact.

So, if you are ready to give back, grow personally and professionally, and be part of something truly rewarding; we would love to have you on board.

Let’s do good, together.

Event Coordinator

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

The Events Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing impactful virtual and in-person events that amplify Growth Pillar’s mission, engage stakeholders, and enhance visibility. Events may include capacity-building workshops, community outreach programs, panel discussions, stakeholder forums, fundraising campaigns, and program launches. This role is ideal for someone who is creative, detail-oriented, proactive, and passionate about development and social innovation in Africa.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Event Planning & Design

• Develop detailed event concepts and calendars aligned with Growth Pillar’s strategic goals
• Coordinate logistics for online and physical events (venue, vendors, equipment, permissions)
• Prepare event plans, workbacks, and budgets in collaboration with team leads
• Secure speakers, facilitators, guests, and panelists as needed

Event Promotion & Registration

• Work with the communications team to develop event promotion materials
• Design and manage event registration and RSVPs (using tools like Google Forms, Eventbrite, etc.)
• Manage event pages, reminders, and social media outreach

On-the-Day Coordination

• Oversee smooth execution of events, managing flow and timing
• Support hosting, moderation, or coordination with emcees (MCs), facilitators, and tech support
• Ensure branding, documentation, and protocols are followed
• Troubleshoot issues in real-time and ensure excellent participant experience

Post-Event Activities

• Collect and analyze participant feedback and prepare post-event reports
• Coordinate with content team to publish event highlights, photos, and summaries
• Maintain a repository of recordings, photos, attendance records, and media files

Partnership & Stakeholder Coordination

• Liaise with local organizations, sponsors, and partners to co-host or support events
• Assist in mobilizing resources (in-kind support, venue sponsorships, etc.)
• Represent Growth Pillar in relevant external event planning committees when needed

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Communications, Marketing, Development Studies, or a related field
• At least 1–2 years of experience in planning and executing professional or community-based events
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Comfortable using tools like Zoom, Canva, Eventbrite, Trello, Google Workspace
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently and collaboratively
• Ability to moderate or facilitate events confidently
• Knowledge of social media and digital marketing tools

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months