Volunteer at COND2026

1. Pre-Conference Preparation (Planning and Promotion Phase)

This phase spans 1-2 months before the event, focusing on logistics setup, marketing, and abstract management. Volunteers assist remotely or locally (e.g., at the host city’s planning office).

Requirements:

• Commitment: 5-10 hours/week for 3-6 months; availability for virtual meetings (e.g., Zoom) in UTC+0 timezone.
• Skills: Basic proficiency in office software (Microsoft Office/Google Workspace), social media management (e.g., LinkedIn, Twitter/X for promotion), or data entry for registration systems.
• Background: Enrolled in or graduated from a nutrition/dietetics program; or experience in event planning/administration.
• Age: 18+ (legal adult for handling sensitive data like attendee registrations).
• Legal: Must sign a confidentiality agreement for handling personal data (GDPR-compliant for international attendees); background check if dealing with finances.

Other Relevant Criteria:

• Preferences: Multilingual skills; familiarity with nutrition terminology for promoting scientific tracks.
• Incentives: Certificate of participation; priority registration for future conferences; networking with organizers (e.g., resume-building letters).
• Diversity: Encourage applications from the Northern Regions  to ensure culturally sensitive promotion materials.
• Recruitment Channels: University nutrition departments, online forms via conference website.

2. On-Site Registration and Welcome Services

Volunteers staff the registration desk, badge distribution, and information booths at the conference venue. UDS

Requirements:

• Commitment: 4-6 hour shifts over 2-4 days (pre-conference setup to closing); full availability on-site during the event week.
• Skills: Excellent customer service and communication; ability to use registration software and handle cash/credit card transactions (basic training provided).
• Background: Customer-facing experience; knowledge of conference layout and emergency procedures.
• Age: 18+; physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift light materials (e.g., badge holders).
• Legal: Valid ID for on-site access; visa/work permit if international volunteer (conference will assist with invitation letters for short-term stays).

Other Relevant Criteria:

• Preferences: Outgoing personality; language skills for assisting diverse attendees.
• Incentives: Free conference T-shirt, daily meals, complimentary access to one networking reception; exposure to international professionals for career opportunities.
• Diversity: Gender balance; include local volunteers for cultural navigation support.
• Recruitment Channels: Local universities and nutrition associations; on-site interviews during orientation.
• Challenges: High-traffic periods (e.g., opening day); rotate shifts to maintain energy.

3. Scientific Program Support (Sessions, Workshops, and Poster Exhibits)

This covers assistance during key scientific elements: plenary/keynote sessions, parallel tracks on topics like micronutrient deficiencies or sustainable diets, interactive workshops, and poster sessions.

Requirements:

• Commitment: 4-hour shifts across 2-3 days; flexibility for morning/afternoon/evening sessions.
• Skills: Technical support (e.g., operating projectors, microphones, or troubleshooting AV issues); note-taking or timekeeping for sessions; basic crowd management for Q&A.
• Background: Undergraduate/graduate student in nutrition sciences or related field; understanding of scientific etiquette (e.g., moderating audience questions).
• Age: 18+; reliable punctuality for session starts.
• Legal: Adherence to intellectual property rules (no unauthorized recording of sessions); health clearance if interacting closely with attendees.

Other Relevant Criteria:

• Preferences: Interest in specific tracks; tech-savvy individuals for hybrid sessions (in-person + virtual).
• Incentives: Free entry to non-shift sessions;
• Diversity: Representation from regions to assist with translation or cultural context in discussions.
• Challenges: Handling technical glitches; provide backup equipment and quick-response protocols.

4. Networking and Social Events Support

Volunteers facilitate icebreakers, receptions, exhibit hall management, and sponsor interactions during breaks and evening events.

Requirements:

• Commitment: Evening shifts (2-4 hours) for 2-3 nights; energy to engage with attendees.
• Skills: Event facilitation (e.g., guiding groups to tables); basic bartending/food service if needed; conflict resolution for minor disputes.
• Background: Social skills from student organizations or community service; awareness of inclusive practices (e.g., accommodating dietary needs at receptions).
• Legal: Food handler’s certification (provided via short training)

Other Relevant Criteria:

• Preferences: Enthusiasm for networking; experience in hospitality or peer mentoring.
• Incentives: Access to all receptions; professional headshots or photo ops with speakers; volunteer appreciation dinner.
• Diversity: Mix of ages and backgrounds to create welcoming vibes for early-career vs. senior attendees.
• Challenges: Fatigue from full days; pair with rest periods.

5. Excursions and Trips Coordination

The conference includes 1-2 optional excursions, such as guided visits to Mole National Park and Larabanga Mosque. These require specialized volunteer support for safety and logistics.

Requirements:

• Commitment: Full-day availability (6-8 hours) for 1-2 excursions; pre-event familiarization (e.g., site visits).
• Skills: Logistics coordination (e.g., headcounts, transportation manifests); basic first aid/CPR certification (training offered); guiding groups (e.g., using maps or apps).
• Background: Local knowledge if tourist sites based.
• Age: 18+; physical fitness for walking tours or outdoor activities.
•  

Other Relevant Criteria:

• Preferences: Multilingual
• Incentives: Free participation in excursions (including meals/transport); unique portfolio addition (e.g., photos/testimonials); travel stipends for locals if needed.
• Diversity: Include indigenous or community representatives for culturally authentic trips.
• Challenges: Weather dependencies or group dynamics; contingency plans for cancellations.

General Engagement Criteria Across All Aspects

• Overall Recruitment Process: Online application (resume + motivation statement); interviews for key roles; selection based on fit.
• Training and Support: 4-hour mandatory orientation (covers conference overview, safety, inclusivity); role-specific sessions; 24/7 coordinator hotline.
• Inclusivity and Equity: Accessibility accommodations; scholarships for volunteer.
• Evaluation: Mid-event check-ins; post-volunteer surveys to refine future engagements.