Volunteer Opportunities

Overview

The African Library Project (ALP) advances literacy by creating and improving small libraries in schools and communities across Sub-Saharan Africa. As a Board Member, you'll provide strategic guidance, governance, and leadership to help ALP grow its impact and sustainability.

The Board of Directors is ALP's highest leadership and governance body. Board members set the mission and strategic objectives, select and support the Executive Director, ensure strong fundraising and resource development, approve and monitor programs, safeguard sound governance and compliance, and enhance ALP's public image. Individually, members are expected to know ALP's mission and programs, review and understand financial statements, serve as advocates and ambassadors, help secure resources, prepare for and participate fully in meetings, and serve on at least one committee.

Our Board is made up of committed professionals who share a passion for books, literacy, education, and global development. We are committed to promoting diversity at every level of the organization and to fostering inclusive processes that prioritize dialogue and collaboration with our African colleagues. Board members may reside anywhere in the world, provided they can fully participate in meetings and responsibilities.

We are currently seeking candidates with expertise in:

• ‍‍Fundraising & Development (major gifts, foundations, and corporate partnerships)

• Finance or Financial Management, especially in the nonprofit/NGO sector

• International law

• ‍‍Peace Corps experience (Returned Peace Corps Volunteers/RPCVs)

• Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBUs) affiliation

• Native to Africa and/or with lived experience on the continent

ALP welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities with whom we partner.

Responsibilities

• Provide fiduciary oversight and uphold strong governance practices

• Help shape strategy and monitor program impact

• Support fundraising efforts: make a personal contribution that is meaningful to you and/or help secure resources through fundraising, partnerships, or donor introductions

• Serve as an ALP ambassador with your networks and community

• Participate actively on at least one Board committee

• ‍‍Strongly recommended: facilitate at least one book drive during your term of service to connect directly with ALP's mission

Board members contribute in ways that are meaningful and accessible to them - whether through giving, fundraising, opening doors to new supporters, or sharing professional expertise.

Expectations & Time Commitment

• Approximately 10 hours per month (includes committee work)

• ‍‍Quarterly virtual board meetings and periodic committee meetings

• Prepare for meetings; review financials and materials; follow through on commitments

Term & Location

• Three-year term

• Remote service; candidates may reside anywhere with reliable internet access

How to Apply

Email your resume (and brief note of interest) to Brandi M. Warren, Executive Director at execdir@africanlibraryproject.org.

Please use the subject line: "Board Member - Application: [Your Name]".

Overview

The African Library Project (ALP) is seeking skilled photographers and videographers to help tell authentic stories about literacy, learning, and community impact. While we strongly prefer candidates based in our partner countries — Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa, and Uganda — we are also open to individuals outside these countries who have relevant experience and the ability to travel.

Responsibilities

• Capture high-quality photos and videos of ALP libraries, students, teachers, and communities

• Collect stories in a dignified, empathetic, and respectful way that honors local culture 

• Ensure proper completion of photo and video release forms for all identifiable individuals

• Collaborate with ALP staff to deliver content for communications, fundraising, and reporting

Ideal Candidates Have

• Professional experience and/or formal education in photography, videography, journalism, or storytelling

• A passion for literacy, education, and community development

• Strong cultural sensitivity and experience working in diverse settings

• Ability to share raw and edited content digitally with ALP staff

• (If outside partner countries) willingness and ability to travel to program locations

How to Apply

Email your resume/portfolio (and brief note of interest) to Brandi M. Warren, Executive Director at execdir@africanlibraryproject.org.
Please use the subject line: “Photographer & Videographer — Application: [Your Name]”.