The consultancy will design and deliver the participatory development and operationalization of a single, integrated Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Framework for Urban Futures. At its core, this framework incorporates the multi-year Learning Agenda, which defines learning priorities and guides program action.
Organizational/Consultant Profile
We encourage organizations and/or consultants with the following skills to apply:
- Minimum of ten years of experience coordinating and supporting knowledge management, LLA strategies and methodologies, preferably in Southern Africa, Latin America, and Indonesia.
- Proven expertise in working with global or regional projects involving multi-stakeholders in multicultural environments.
- Strong facilitation skills in multilingual settings using innovative methodologies.
- Demonstrated ability to host virtual events, engaging participants across time zones. For the non-English participants, the translation service needs to be included/provided by the consultancy firm.
- Demonstrated ability to design, adapt, and apply innovative LLA methodologies.
- Experience developing capacity-building programs focused on knowledge management techniques.
- Excellent analytical skills and proficiency in writing detailed reports synthesizing findings from complex initiatives.
- Demonstrated experience working with youth, particularly in participatory processes.
- Proven track record of engagement in food systems is desirable.
- Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in Spanish and Bahasa Indonesia is preferred.
Activities and Responsibilities
The consultancy will design and deliver the development and support the implementation of a single, integrated Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Framework. At its core, this framework will embed a multi-year Learning Agenda as the main methodology to define priorities, structure participatory processes, and generate actionable evidence. A practical Toolbox will also be piloted to ensure sustainability and continuous updating of the framework beyond the consultancy period. This integrated approach will:
1. Lead the participatory development and support the implementation of an Integrated Linking, Learning & Action Framework with Multi-Year Learning Agenda as its Core Methodology
- Work closely and interact regularly with the Hivos/Humanis Global Core Team (including Global and Regional staff as well as RUAF) to ensure alignment of implementation plan.
- Conduct a comprehensive desk review of key Hivos, Humanis, and Urban Futures documents (UF project proposal, Hivos Strategic Compass, existing L&L documents, Global reports, Knowledge Management resources, Fondation Botnar’s Evidence to Action Strategy, outcome harvesting reports, and annual/semi-annual reports) to inform the integrated framework and Learning Agenda.
- Identify and prioritize programmatic learning questions with global, regional, and local partners, including youth groups. Develop a multi-year Learning Agenda as a living roadmap aligned with the Urban Futures Theory of Change, Monitoring & Evaluation, and advocacy and communication strategies. The agenda will define priorities, questions, and an action plan detailing activities, responsibilities, and timelines at global, regional, and city levels. Its development will rely on participatory, youth- and partner-centered processes that generate evidence, surface lessons, and co-create practical recommendations. This will include regional implementation plans and virtual sessions with youth and partners to strengthen collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation across Urban Futures’ cities.
- Ensure that the Learning Agenda is collectively discussed with youth representatives from different regions (annex 1), through at least one joint session that guarantees inclusiveness, legitimacy, and ownership of the identified priorities and recommendations.
- Apply inclusive and youth-centered approaches that actively address power dynamics and ensure meaningful engagement.
- Ensure local relevance and global coherence, framing the integrated strategy as a living document adaptable to emerging evidence and priorities.
2. Consolidate a Practical Linking & Learning Toolbox
- Design and pilot a practical Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Toolbox that consolidates adaptable methodologies, resources, and guidelines available for participatory learning. The Toolbox will support youth engagement, ensure equitable participation, and provide mechanisms for the continuous updating of the Learning Agenda.
