Job Title: Public Engagement Coordinator
Project Name: Mechanistic Trial of Problem Solving and Behavioural Activation for Youth Depression (METROPOLIS)
Contract Duration: Three years (Initial appointment for six months’ probation, renewable up to one year based on performance review. The position is co-terminus with the project.)
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: April 17, 2025
About Sangath
Sangath is a leading non-profit organization committed to advancing mental health and public health initiatives in India. With a legacy of nearly three decades, we focus on empowering communities through innovative research, impactful healthcare solutions, and evidence-based interventions. Our inclusive and supportive work culture has been recognized with the prestigious “Great Place to Work” award.
Our Core Values:
- Empathy & Respect: Prioritizing care and dignity in all interactions.
- Excellence & Innovation: Driving world-class research and solutions.
- Integrity & Transparency: Upholding ethical standards and accountability.
- Performance & Impact: Striving for measurable, sustainable change.
Employee Benefits:
- Provident Fund (PF), ESIC, Gratuity, and Medical Insurance.
- Flexible work hours, remote work options, and special leaves (Menstrual Leave, Gender Affirmation Leave).
- Professional growth and development opportunities.
About METROPOLIS
The Mechanistic Trial of Problem Solving and Behavioural Activation for Youth Depression (METROPOLIS) is a pioneering mental health research initiative designed to address youth depression through innovative, evidence-based interventions. This project is conducted in collaboration with globally renowned institutions, including King’s College London (UK), OP Jindal Global University (India), Youth for Mental Health Foundation (India), and Brighton and Sussex Medical School (UK).
Youth depression is a growing global concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to mental health care remains limited. India, home to one-fifth of the world’s youth population, faces an alarming rise in mental health disorders among young people, necessitating the development of scalable, early interventions. METROPOLIS aims to bridge this gap by evaluating the effectiveness of Problem-Solving (PS) and Behavioural Activation (BA)—two promising psychological interventions—when delivered by peer counsellors in university settings.
Key Objectives of METROPOLIS:
- Enhancing Understanding of Psychological Interventions: The study focuses on identifying how PS and BA contribute to improving mental health outcomes in young individuals, offering an alternative to traditional, resource-intensive therapies.
- Empowering Peer Counsellors: The project trains university students to deliver mental health support to their peers, creating a sustainable model that leverages community-based intervention.
- Focusing on Disadvantaged Groups: METROPOLIS prioritizes university students from marginalized backgrounds in the Delhi NCR region, ensuring that underserved populations have access to high-quality mental health care.
- Scaling Mental Health Solutions: By evaluating the real-world effectiveness of PS and BA, this research will inform policies and strategies for integrating peer-led interventions into higher education institutions across India and beyond.
- Reducing Stigma & Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior: Through public engagement activities and targeted storytelling campaigns, METROPOLIS aims to normalize mental health discussions and encourage students to seek timely support.
Unlike traditional multicomponent mental health programs, METROPOLIS focuses on isolating and assessing the impact of these two core therapeutic techniques in diverse youth populations. By conducting a rigorous, scientifically backed evaluation, this initiative will help shape the future of mental health interventions, making them more accessible, affordable, and impactful for young people worldwide.
Role Overview:
Sangath seeks a Public Engagement Coordinator with expertise in writing, storytelling, policy advocacy, and communications. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about driving social change through compelling narratives and youth engagement. You will play a pivotal role in destigmatizing mental health, promoting help-seeking behaviors, and amplifying youth voices through innovative communication strategies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop & Execute Public Engagement Strategy: Design and implement outreach campaigns to engage marginalized youth and raise awareness about mental health issues.
- Collaborate with Youth Organizations: Partner with student groups and NGOs to conduct public engagement events, advocacy campaigns, and storytelling initiatives.
- Content Development: Create high-impact written and visual content (blogs, social media, policy briefs) to drive awareness and engagement.
- Manage the ‘It’s Ok To Talk’ Campaign: Oversee storytelling initiatives, maintain the website (www.itsoktotalk.in), and curate diverse youth narratives.
- Media Engagement & Research Dissemination: Work with research teams to share key findings with media, stakeholders, and the public.
- Digitization & Higher Education Outreach: Support the development of digital intervention tools and facilitate university-level collaborations.
Required Qualifications & Experience
Essential Criteria:
- Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Policy, Psychology, Social Sciences, or a related field.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in advocacy, journalism, or public engagement, especially in health or social sectors.
- Proven track record in campaign management and stakeholder engagement.
- Strong writing and communication skills in English and Hindi.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects efficiently.
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience in storytelling and personal narratives for advocacy.
- Proficiency in WordPress/Wix website management and social media tools.
- Background in mental health or public health-related communication.
Compensation:
Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, in accordance with Sangath’s policies. The initial contract will include a six-month probationary period, with renewals based on performance evaluation.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates must submit the following by 5:00 PM on April 17, 2025:
- Cover letter detailing how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
- Updated CV.
- Portfolio of relevant past projects (if available).
- Contact information for two professional references.
Email applications to: Alka Singh at alka.singh@sangath.in
Subject Line: “Application for Public Engagement Coordinator, METROPOLIS”
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Sangath is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities.
Join us and be a part of transforming mental health engagement in India! to fostering diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities.
Join us and be a part of transforming mental health engagement in India!