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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vodacom Change the World?

Vodacom’s Change the World programme, delivered by the Vodacom Foundation, offers 10 (ten) outstanding South Africans the opportunity to work for a charitable organisation in South Africa, for a period of twelve (12) months, at no cost to the host organisations. The winning volunteers are chosen on merit and receive a monthly stipend.

It is based on Vodafone’s World of Difference programme that has been successfully launched in 21 Vodafone Foundations around the world, and to date over 2 000 individual winners have participated or are currently participating.

What are the benefits of the programme?

Vodacom Change the World facilitates a full-time skilled volunteer placement at no cost to the NPO, to boost its organisational capacity.

This is more effective than traditional cash donations. For participants, this is an opportunity for personal fulfilment, self development and adds valuable experience to their backgrounds. It also provides publicity for the NPO, the volunteer and Vodacom.

What are the key dates for this year?

•	We’re accepting applications from 8 January until midnight on 10 February 2012.
•	The top 20 applicants must be available to visit their NPO during the first week of March 2012.
•	The top 20 applicants must also be available to attend adjudication sessions on 12 and 13 March 2012.
•	The 10 successful applicants must be available to attend a 2 day induction and media launch during the last of week of March 2012.
•	The placement with the NPO commences on 2 April 2012 and ends on 30 March 2013

Who is eligible to apply?

Permanent citizens of South Africa, who are passionate about community work and have skills to offer, who are older than 18 years of age. Vodacom staff members are not excluded from participation.

Do I have to approach the NPO I want to work with, before I apply?

No. Interested applicants are invited to view the list of volunteer opportunities listed on the Vodacom Change the World website on http://www.vodacom.co.za/changetheworld and select one that closely matches their skills and passion and supply the information requested on the application form.

How much detail do I need to give on the application form?

The more information that is shared, the better the prospects of a successful match.

How do I apply for Vodacom Change the World?

Simply complete the online application form on www.vodacom.co.za/changetheworld and submit it. It is recommended that applicants download the Excel form, prepare their answers in advance, save them and paste them onto the online application form when applying. Information, once submitted cannot be amended later.

Have the following documents ready to upload:

1.	A copy of your ID
2.	Two (2) electronic photographs that are a true likeness of yourself (1 head and shoulders and 1 full length on a white background). This will be the photograph that we will use in the initial publicity.
3.	Two references with contact details. (1 personal and 1 professional).
4.	Your CV and/or supporting documentation

NB. By submitting an application you confirm that you agree to accept the terms and conditions of Vodacom Change the World.

Can I submit my application by post?

No. All applications must be submitted either online or via facsimile. Don’t worry; our online application process is very straightforward and easy to use. We’ve also provided an application form that you can download and fax to (011) 653 7763.

I have a disability – can I still apply?

Yes, please share information about your disability in your application.

Is a valid driver’s license required?

Yes.

If I have a criminal record, can I still apply?

Yes. We advise that you disclose this information upfront. The top 20 applicants will undergo mandatory background checks.

What hours do I have to work?

This is a full time placement, and you will need to discuss the terms with your host organisation, but in general, expect to work a minimum of 30 hours a week.

I do not live near my preferred host organisation. Can I carry out a project with them whilst being based at home?

You need to discuss this with your host organisation to ensure that this type of arrangement would be effective for what you both want to achieve.

Can I identify my own NPO outside the 10 listed on the website?

No. The 10 NPOs have been pre-selected based on strict criteria. These NPOs have agreed to accept volunteers for specific needs they have within their organisations.

Can I work overseas?

No. All 10 NPOs are based in South Africa.

Can I make a joint application or apply for more than one volunteer opportunity?

No multiple-applications or joint applications will be allowed.

Do I have to have been a volunteer in the past?

No. If you’ve always wanted to work for an NPO, but have never had the opportunity, this is your chance to show what you have to offer and make a difference.

How does the judging and selection work?

•	Each application will be individually judged based on merit and the skills the applicant brings to the project.
•	A reputable and independent Service Provider has been appointed by Vodacom to assist with the selection and adjudication processes, and will select the top 40 applicants from all valid applications received.
•	From the 40, a shortlist of 20 applicants will be presented to the Vodacom Change the World team. The top 20 applicants will be notified telephonically.
•	Arrangements will be made for the top 20 shortlisted applicants to visit their selected NPOs and meet the management and team of each NPO. The NPO will score each of the applicants which will account for 50% of the final score.
	The judges will interview the 20 shortlisted applicants and this will account for the other 50% of the final score.
	The results will be verified by an independent firm of auditors.
•	The decision in respect of all matters pertaining to the selection process is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

How will I know if I’ve been successful?

The winning applicants will be notified by mid March 2012. We will also notify all unsuccessful applicants.

What is the salary available for the twelve (12) month placement?

•	The winning applicants become employees of their host organisation. A stipend of R25 000 per month will be paid towards the volunteers’ living expenses.
•	You need to discuss the detail of when and how your salary is paid with the host organisation with whom you have been matched.
•	Each of the 10 host organisations will receive a grant from the Vodacom Foundation. The grant is to be applied towards the volunteer placement costs, to ensure they can deliver on their Key Performance Indicators and to cover other scheduled expenses.

What will happen at the two (2) day induction session?

A two (2) day induction and media launch will be held in Midrand on 29 & 30 March 2012. This is an opportunity to meet the other successful applicants, interact with your host organisation and agree on outcomes and code of conduct.

All reasonable expenses for attending will be paid on your behalf for you to attend. More details will follow when the placement is confirmed.

Will I have any responsibilities other than my role for the host organisation?

Yes. Participants will be expected to share their experiences on social media platforms e.g. Facebook and Twitter and their NPO’s website, with friends, family and the general public. Participation through social media platforms is an important part of this placement programme. The more such media platforms are used, the better the chances a volunteer may have to harness support for him/her and the NPO. Support for your cause will be critical when entering for the international Vodafone Grahame Maher Award.

What happens if I can’t complete the placement?

•	Once you have been chosen, you will be expected to complete your placement with your host organisation as per the dates agreed.
•	The funds paid to the NPO will be conditional upon you completing the 12 month placement and helping to drive publicity via the web and otherwise complying with the Vodacom Change the World Terms and Conditions.
•	Volunteers who successfully complete their 12 month placements are eligible to enter for the international Vodafone Grahame Maher award and win a substantial cash prize for them and their NPO.

The host organisation becomes the successful applicants employer for 12 months, please discuss the following with them:

•	Annual and sick leave
•	Working hours
•	Accommodation and travel if applicable
•	Tax (PAYE and UIF)
•	Salary payment details
•	Insurance and medical aid

Who can I direct enquiries to regarding Vodacom Change the World?

ctwenquiries@vodacom.co.za

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