Objective

The consultancy will design and deliver the participatory development and operationalization of a single, integrated Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Framework for Urban Futures. At its core, this framework incorporates the multi-year Learning Agenda, which defines learning priorities and guides program action

Organizational/consultant profile

We encourage organizations and/or consultants with the following skills to apply:

• Minimum of ten years of experience coordinating and supporting knowledge management, LLA strategies and methodologies, preferably in Southern Africa, Latin America, and Indonesia.
• Proven expertise in working with global or regional projects involving multi-stakeholders in multicultural environments.
• Strong facilitation skills in multilingual settings using innovative methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to host virtual events, engaging participants across time zones. For the non-English participants, the translation service needs to be included/provided by the consultancy firm.
• Demonstrated ability to design, adapt, and apply innovative LLA methodologies.
• Experience developing capacity-building programs focused on knowledge management techniques.
• Excellent analytical skills and proficiency in writing detailed reports synthesizing findings from complex initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience working with youth, particularly in participatory processes.
• Proven track record of engagement in food systems is desirable.
• Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in Spanish and Bahasa Indonesia is preferred.

Activities and responsibilities

The consultancy will design and deliver the development and support the implementation of a single, integrated Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Framework. At its core, this framework will embed a multi-year Learning Agenda as the main methodology to define priorities, structure participatory processes, and generate actionable evidence. A practical Toolbox will also be piloted to ensure sustainability and continuous updating of the framework beyond the consultancy period. This integrated approach will:

Lead the participatory development and support the implementation of an Integrated Linking, Learning& Action Framework with Multi-Year Learning Agenda) as its Core Methodology.

• Work closely and interact regularly with the Hivos/Humanis Global Core Team (including Global and Regional staff as well as RUAF) to ensure alignment of implementation plan.
• Conduct a comprehensive desk review of key Hivos, Humanis, and Urban Futures documents (UF project proposal, Hivos Strategic Compass, existing L&L documents, Global reports, Knowledge Management resources, Fondation Botnar’s Evidence to Action Strategy, outcome harvesting reports, and annual/semi-annual reports) to inform the integrated framework and Learning Agenda.
• Identify and prioritize programmatic learning questions with global, regional, and local partners, including youth groups. Develop a multi-year Learning Agenda as a living roadmap aligned with the Urban Futures Theory of Change, Monitoring & Evaluation, and advocacy and communication strategies. The agenda will define priorities, questions, and an action plan detailing activities, responsibilities, and timelines at global, regional, and city levels. Its development will rely on participatory, youth- and partner-centered processes that generate evidence, surface lessons, and co-create practical recommendations. This will include regional implementation plans and virtual sessions with youth and partners to strengthen collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation across Urban Futures’ cities.
• Ensure that the Learning Agenda is collectively discussed with youth representatives from different regions (annex 1), through at least one joint session that guarantees inclusiveness, legitimacy, and ownership of the identified priorities and recommendations.
• Apply inclusive and youth-centered approaches that actively address power dynamics and ensure meaningful engagement.
• Ensure local relevance and global coherence, framing the integrated strategy as a living document adaptable to emerging evidence and priorities.

Consolidate a Practical Linking & Learning Toolbox

• Design and pilot a practical Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Toolbox that consolidates adaptable methodologies, resources, and guidelines available for participatory learning. The Toolbox will support youth engagement, ensure equitable participation, and provide mechanisms for the continuous updating of the Learning Agenda

Deliverables

1. Workplan for the consultancy
2. Integrated Linking, Learning & Action Framework – One comprehensive document including:

• Multi-level Action Plan (global, regional, city-region
• The multi-year Learning Agenda
• A Learning Agenda
• Documentation of participatory processes with youth and partners

3. Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Toolbox
4. Final Consultancy Report

Consultancy period

5 months

How to apply

Applicants should review the attached Terms of Reference (ToR) and submit the following application package in a single PDF file by November 30, 11:59 p.m. GMT-5 to mtobar@hivos.org, with the subject line: “Global Linking, Learning & Action (LLA) Consultancy”.

1. Cover letter (max 2 pages): Relevant experience with multi-country linking & learning and youth-centered processes.
2. Technical proposal (max 8 pages): Methodology: How you will design and deliver the work.

• Workplan: Timeline with milestones.
• Risks & mitigation: Key risks and how you will address them.
• Facilitation approach: Plan for multilingual youth sessions.
• Sample tools: Up to two tools you propose to pilot (brief description or mock-ups).

3. Team CVs (max 2 pages each): Roles and level of effort.
4. Work sample: At least one multi-year Learning Agenda you developed (link or annex).
5. Final budget (USD): Level of effort by role and assumptions, including all taxes.
6. References (two): Name, role, organization, email, phone, and your working relationship.

Timeline

Deadline for questions: 26 November 2025. Please send inquiries to mtobar@hivos.org

Interviews/presentations: The top 3–5 shortlisted applicants may be invited to a clarification call; invitations will be sent by email. Award notification: Within 30 calendar days after call closure.