This Volunteer Placement is Located in : Cotonou, Benin, with engagement in Senegal Start Date: September 2026 Placement Length: 3 months Language Requirements: French Eligibility: Open to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada only

The Volunteer’s Role

Are you experienced in business engagement, market research, or private sector partnerships in West Africa? This volunteer placement offers an opportunity to help connect young people with pathways to decent employment by strengthening links between training systems and employer needs in Benin, Senegal and the wider region. As part of Cuso International’s SHARE program, you will support partners working to build economic resilience for marginalized groups, migrants and refugees. Your work will help identify skills needs among Canadian and European companies operating in West Africa, so technical and vocational training can better respond to labour market demand.

As a volunteer, you will

Identify emerging market opportunities in the business sector in Senegal and Benin. Map Canadian and European companies operating in Senegal, Benin and other West African countries, including Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mali and Mauritania. Research business networks, chambers of commerce, mining sector contacts and training institutions, including colleges, universities and technical high schools. Support the implementation of a company engagement strategy in Senegal and Benin. Help teams follow up with companies, mining organizations, chambers of commerce and other key business contacts. Participate in meetings and in-person visits with partner companies in Benin and Senegal alongside Cuso International team members.

Essential Qualifications

At least 2 years of professional experience in the business sector in West Africa, preferably in Benin and/or Senegal. Experience engaging with companies, private sector organizations or business networks. Strong analytical, communication and report-writing skills. Ability to work effectively in intercultural settings and meet tight deadlines.

By helping partners understand employer demand and build stronger private sector connections, you will contribute to more relevant training opportunities and improved access to decent employment for young people across West Africa.

What’s in it for YOU? A life-changing experience!

Cuso International

Cuso International is an international cooperation and development organization based in Canada that works to create social and economic opportunities for equity-deserving groups. Building on over sixty years of impactful work, we address global challenges by tackling the root causes of inequality. Working alongside our partners, we are focused on efforts to improve economic resilience, advance equity and inclusion for all, and deliver progress on climate action. We believe that by sharing skills, we can build better futures. Guided by our values of courage, inclusion, sustainability and accountability, Cuso combines innovative strategies and enduring partnerships to create lasting, meaningful change in communities across Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada.

Support Package

Monthly living allowance Accommodation Health insurance (including required vaccinations and antimalarial medication) Round-trip airfare and visa/work permit costs Pre-placement, in-country and reintegration training (along with access to self-directed materials and online resources) Ongoing local support Access to the Employee Assistance Program during and after placement

Visit our website to view all 30+ international and online volunteer opportunities: https://cusointl.org/3uVN1oJ