Abang Calistus Mvo

• I am successfully leading two research teams in significant projects:
• Collective Book on Aghem Ethnography - Lead a team of 15 persons and collaborating with 45 contributors to research and write a comprehensive collective book on the ethnography of the Aghems in the Northwest region of Cameroon. - Focusing on exploring all ethnographic features of the clan, providing a rich and detailed understanding of their culture and traditions.
• Menchum Factbook Project - Leading a team of 15 researchers under the guidance of a university don to compile the Menchum Factbook, a comprehensive resource on the Menchum Division in Cameroon. - Researching and documenting various aspects of the division, including economy, geography, culture, history, agriculture, and more, with the goal of promoting the division’s profile worldwide.
• Other research findings have been published in journals

These experiences have contributed to my skills in research team leadership, collaboration, and project management, enabling me to effectively guide teams and produce high-quality research outputs

· Maintained a keen awareness of evolving political, social, economic, and cultural trends that influence the protection environment, and providing strategic counsel to senior management to inform decision-making.

· Identified and submitted compelling emergency and urgent cases for resettlement consideration.

· Conducted weekly interviews, drafted, and submitted resettlement cases.

· Managed individual case work, including RRF completion, sponsorship, family reunification, and study visa applications.

• Provided counseling to refugees, managing their expectations and offering guidance.
• Maintained accurate and up-to-date records on the Progress Database (V4).
• Conducted peer reviews of Resettlement Referral Assessments (RRFs) and Resettlement Preliminary Assessments (PAFs).
• Successfully profiled cases from diverse nationalities for resettlement consideration.
• Drafted high-quality Resettlement Referral Forms (RRFs) for submission.
• Developed comprehensive Best Interest Assessments (BIAs) to inform resettlement decisions.
• Contributed to the attainment of Resettlement Quotas
• Contributed to the sourcing of over USD116366, for the innovative proposal to UNHCR Digital Innovation Fund 2024, in collaboration with colleagues. The proposal, which suggests for establishment of a digitally oriented end users-led protection monitoring mechanism platform, impressed Digital Innovation Programme.
• Adjudicated and resolved inconsistencies of more than 60 cases using the Biometric Identity Management System (BIMS), identified and addressed inconsistencies in ProGres, and referred.
• Co-facilitated the training of private security officers deployed to the UNHCR compound, Refugee settlement in Meheba and to private homes of UNHCR international Staff.
• Provided support to the two new staff members in Solwezi.
• Counselled refugees on how to get registered on the complimentary pathways on TalentLift Canada.
• Translated from French to English and Vice versa to some staff and refugees.
• Received spontaneous refugee walk-ins for counselling and referral to Protection team.

Refugee Status Determination (RSD) Expertise

• Maintained a keen awareness of evolving political, social, economic, and cultural trends that influence the protection environment, and providing strategic counsel to senior management to inform decision-making
• Conducted RSD interviews and drafted assessments in accordance with applicable standards and guidelines, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records and data for individual cases.
• Provided counseling to asylum seekers and refugees, addressing their unique needs and concerns.

RSD Trend Analysis and Research

• Assisted in monitoring RSD trends, compiling and analyzing statistics to identify areas for improvement in RSD decision-making.
• Conducted research on country-of-origin information (COI) and legal issues related to RSD, maintaining a local repository of relevant information and guidelines for RSD staff.

Leadership and Coordination

• Served as RSD Focal Point, coordinating RSD activities and managing interview schedules until the arrival of the new Head of Unit/Associate Protection Officer.
• Treated more cases than stipulated in the Terms of Reference (TORs), improving efficiency and reducing wait times.
• Coached interpreters on UNHCR Confidentiality principles and co-organized a code of conduct training session.
• Initiated the 'Garowe-RSD mission project' to reduce distance and cost barriers for Persons of Concern (PoCs) accessing RSD services.

· Taught courses on Human Rights and Peacekeeping, Peacekeeping Operations, Human Rights and Armed Conflicts, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of these critical topics.

· Instructed students on Ethics in Peacekeeping and best practices in peacekeeping, promoting a culture of integrity and excellence.

· Empowered Graduates: Successfully imparted a thorough understanding of Human Rights and peacekeeping principles to students, empowering them to make a positive impact in their future careers.

· Maintained a keen awareness of evolving political, social, economic, and cultural trends that influence the protection environment, and providing strategic counsel to senior management to inform decision-making.

· Conducted refugee status determination (RSD) interviews and drafted assessments in accordance with applicable standards and guidelines, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records and data for individual cases.

· Provided counseling to asylum seekers and refugees, addressing their unique needs and concerns.

· Assisted in monitoring RSD trends, compiling and analyzing statistics to identify areas for improvement in RSD decision-making.

· Conducted research on country-of-origin information (COI) and legal issues related to RSD, maintaining a local repository of relevant information and guidelines for RSD staff.

· Implemented efficient case treatment and submission processes, reducing backlog and improving overall productivity.

· Trained newly deployed Eligibility officers at the National Secretariat for RSD, enhancing their skills and knowledge.

· Assisted the registration unit in processing new asylum seeker arrivals, ensuring timely and efficient registration.

· Conducted home visits to Persons of Concern, facilitating family reunification and providing support to vulnerable individuals.

· · Maintained a keen awareness of evolving political, social, economic, and cultural trends that influence the protection environment, and providing strategic counsel to senior management to inform decision-making

· Conducted refugee status determination (RSD) interviews and drafted assessments in accordance with applicable standards and guidelines, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records and data for individual cases.

· Provided counseling to asylum seekers and refugees, addressing their unique needs and concerns.

• Analyzed RSD trends, compiled and analyzed statistics to identify areas for improvement in RSD decision-making, and proposed remedial measures.
• Conducted research on country-of-origin information (COI) and legal issues related to RSD, maintaining a local repository of relevant information and guidelines for RSD staff.
• Implemented efficient profiling, treatment, and submission of cases during the emergency influx of persons of concern from the Central African Republic.
• Assisted the registration unit in registering asylum seekers as new arrivals surged.

· Conducted home visits to persons of concern, facilitating family reunification efforts.

· Facilitated training sessions on Human Rights-Based Approach, as well as the mission and activities of the United Nations Department for Safety and Security (UNDSS), enhancing participants' knowledge and expertise.

.Trained numerous seasoned Human Rights and Security Experts, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively integrate human rights principles into their work

· Designed and delivered comprehensive training programs on key topics, including Human Rights Instruments, Conflict Resolution, International Relations, and International Humanitarian Law.

· Trained numerous experts who have gone on to become trainers themselves, creating a ripple effect of knowledge sharing and capacity building that continues to amplify human rights expertise globally

· Organized together with the team, all major political elections in Cameroon, including presidential, senatorial, municipal, and legislative elections, from 2013 to 2015.

· Coordinated elections across 10 divisions and 70 subdivisions, ensuring seamless execution at the divisional level.

· Fostered strong working relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, partners, and project managers. Collaborated with international partners, such as the European Union, to facilitate partnership visits and drafted comprehensive reports detailing these engagements.

· Demonstrated exceptional organizational skills by jointly organizing meetings, dispatching invitations, and liaising with government counterparts in the region.

· Contributed significantly to the registration of numerous potential voters, enhancing the inclusivity of the electoral process.

· Distributed voter cards to over 1,000 card holders, ensuring eligible citizens could exercise their right to vote.

· Deployed election materials to polling stations, guaranteeing the smooth conduct of elections.

· Coordinated training seminars for divisional and sub-divisional delegates, enhancing their capacity to manage elections effectively.

· Established credibility in the electoral process, reinforcing trust among stakeholders and the electorate

· Researched and drafted news briefs on developments within the Catholic Church in Yaounde, providing timely updates to readers.

· Covered events organized by Catholic groups and associations, showcasing the vibrant faith community in Yaounde.

· Represented the Newspaper at select Catholic events in the Yaounde Archdiocese, fostering relationships with Church leaders and communities.

.Kept Christians informed about key events shaping the life of their Church, promoting transparency, awareness, and engagement within the faith community.

• Researched and drafted in-depth reports on significant events and developments in and around Cameroon, providing valuable insights into the country’s complex landscape.
• Conducted thorough research on current political issues shaping Cameroon and its neighboring regions, staying up-to-date on the latest developments and trends.
• Served as a representative of the magazine at major events in Cameroon, fostering relationships with key stakeholders and expanding the magazine’s reach. Achievements
• Produced numerous credible reports on salient happenings in Cameroon, demonstrating a commitment to in-depth journalism and storytelling.