The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) in South Africa is inviting applications for membership of its National Steering Committee (NSC). The NSC is a voluntary advisory body that plays a pivotal role in guiding the country programme, overseeing project selection, and ensuring community-led initiatives align with national environmental priorities. We are currently seeking motivated and committed individuals in the following categories: Youth Representative – Individuals with demonstrated experience in youth-led development initiatives, particularly those focused on environmental sustainability, biodiversity, climate action, or community-led conservation projects. Small Business Development Specialist – Professionals with expertise in enterprise development, sustainable livelihoods, or community-level economic development, able to advise on how SGP initiatives can foster resilient, environmentally sustainable economic activities. Civil Society Representatives – Individuals affiliated with or experienced in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), or other grassroots structures actively engaged with local communities and environmental development. About GEF SGP The GEF Small Grants Programme is implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It is designed to support community-based and grassroots initiatives that address global environmental challenges while generating direct benefits for local communities. SGP operates under the principle that local ownership and community involvement are critical to achieving sustainable environmental impact. SGP focuses on the six GEF focal areas: Biodiversity conservation Climate change mitigation and adaptation Protection of international waters Land degradation prevention and sustainable land management Sustainable forest management Phasing out of persistent organic pollutants and other harmful chemicals Through a decentralized, country-driven approach, the programme awards grants based on recommendations of the NSC, guided by a Country Programme Strategy developed in line with national priorities and the global SGP Strategic Framework. In South Africa, the current strategy under GEF Operational Phase 8 prioritises: Community-based wildlife economy projects contributing to the National Biodiversity Economy Strategy (NBES) Initiatives targeting water management, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction Role of the National Steering Committee The NSC is the central governance and advisory body of the SGP in South Africa. Members play a critical role in ensuring the programme operates transparently, equitably, and in line with community-driven principles. Key responsibilities include: Strategic Guidance: Providing direction and guidance for the country programme, including contributing to the development and implementation of the Country Programme Strategy. Project Oversight: Reviewing and approving project proposals to ensure alignment with programme priorities and national environmental strategies. Transparency and Accountability: Upholding impartiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring NSC decisions are transparent, inclusive, and community-focused. Resource Mobilisation: Supporting the National Coordinator in identifying partnerships, co-funding opportunities, and other mechanisms to strengthen programme sustainability. Monitoring and Evaluation: Participating in site visits, monitoring project progress, and evaluating programme outcomes. Participation is voluntary, without monetary remuneration. Travel expenses for site visits or NSC meetings are covered by SGP. Members typically serve a three-year term, with the possibility of renewal, and attend up to three on-site meetings annually in Pretoria, supplemented by virtual sessions as required. Who Should Apply We are seeking individuals who: Are based in South Africa and are committed to community empowerment and grassroots development Have practical experience working with local communities, particularly in environmental or sustainable development projects Possess strong knowledge of one or more GEF focal areas, including biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainable land and forest management, and waste management Can contribute constructively to collective decision-making processes Are willing to dedicate time to NSC responsibilities and collaborate actively with other members Ideal candidates for the youth representative role should have experience in youth-led initiatives; small business development specialists should have expertise in enterprise and sustainable livelihoods; civil society representatives should have experience in NGO or CBO-led projects that engage directly with communities. How to Apply Applicants should submit the following: Motivation Letter: Indicate the category of application (youth representative, small business development specialist, or civil society representative) and the GEF focal area(s) of expertise and interest. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting relevant experience and qualifications Applications should be sent to bids.za@undp.org with the subject line: GEF SGP NSC Membership Application by 6 March 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Any queries may be directed to Gefsgp.sa@undp.org. Becoming a member of the NSC provides an opportunity to directly influence community-led environmental initiatives in South Africa, supporting projects that enhance biodiversity, climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, water management, sanitation, and ecosystem protection. Your contribution will help ensure that local communities play a central role in addressing environmental challenges while benefiting from the outcomes. SEE OFFICIAL POST HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.