Content Writer

Overview Islamic Relief South Africa (IRSA) is a member of Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW), a UK based international relief and development charity, which aims to alleviate the suffering of the world’s poorest people. Position Identification Position Title: Content Writer Organization: Islamic Relief South Africa Location: Cape Town, South Africa Contract: One-year fixed contract Reports to: Content Creation Coordinator Purpose of Position To craft compelling written content that captures the heart of Islamic Relief South Africa’s work To develop long and shortform copy for PR and Media, web pages, feedback reports, and other digital platforms The copywriter plays a key role in storytelling, public relations, and strategic messaging to drive awareness, fundraising, and impact Key Responsibilities The specific details of a copywriter will include: Website content Write, edit, and update website copy, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and SEO best practices. Create written content for campaigns, project pages, and emergency appeals. Collaborate with the web development and digital marketing teams to ensure user-friendly, accessible, and engaging language. PR & Media Writing Draft press releases, media statements, op-eds, and interview talking points. Support media outreach efforts by creating strong, newsworthy narratives. Assist in preparing briefing documents, speech notes, and Q&As for events or interviews. Storytelling & Case Studies Develop human-interest stories from the field, transforming programme data into inspiring content. Collaborate with programmes and fundraising teams to identify impactful stories and testimonials. Write case studies, success stories, and donor engagement pieces for reports and external communication. Reports & Publications Contribute written content to donor reports, annual reports, and corporate publications. Ensure written materials are well-structured, accurate, and aligned with Islamic Relief’s tone and values. Proofread and edit content from other departments for consistency and clarity. Social Media & Email Copy Support content for social media captions, carousels, and campaign messaging. Assist in writing donor journey emails, newsletters, and calls to action. Help maintain a consistent voice across platforms and content types. Internal Communications Assist in drafting internal newsletters, campaign updates, and messaging toolkits. Work closely with the communications and fundraising teams to ensure consistency across internal and external written content. Educational Qualification Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, English, Public Relations, OR equivalent experience At least 2–3 years of experience in copywriting or editorial roles, preferably in the non-profit or development sector Demonstrated portfolio of written work, including web content, reports, and PR materials Skills & Knowledge Required Strong copywriting, editing, and proofreading skills Strong understanding of storytelling for non-profit and humanitarian audiences Ability to adapt tone and style for different platforms (e.g., reports vs. social media) Familiarity with SEO principles and digital best practices are an advantage Experience in copywriting relating to journalism, PR, or related areas Able to manage multiple deadlines and work efficiently under pressure Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently and within a team A genuine passion for storytelling using visual tools Committed to Islamic Relief’s values, upholding the highest standards in conduct and journalistic and ethical standards Creative and inspiring thinker keen to share and implement ideas for impactful communications and able to overcome setbacks and motivate others Self-motivated, self-sufficient in day-to-day working and confident in solving problems with the ability to rapidly adapt to changing situations and priorities Willingness to occasionally work unsociable hours, including some weekends, to respond to urgent needs such as unfolding humanitarian emergencies Willingness and ability to travel to Islamic Relief family and field offices in South Africa and around the world, and potentially to disaster zones, in order to gather content Strong emotional intelligence and resilience, and able to maintain composure – acting in a calm and measured way, in difficult situations A strategic mindset, focused on results and continuous improvement Key Islamic Relief Qualities Required It is essential that the post holder shows a good understanding and sympathy with Islamic values and principles as well as commitment to IR’s vision and mission as per below: Excellence (Ihsan): Our actions in tackling poverty are marked by excellence in our operations and conduct which are deserving of the people we serve. Sincerity (Ikhlas): In responding to poverty and suffering our efforts are driven by sincerity to God and the need to fulfil our obligations to humanity Social Justice (Adl): Our work is founded on enabling people and institutions to fulfil the rights of the poor and vulnerable. We work to empower the dispossessed towards realising their God-given human potential and developing their capabilities and resources. Compassion (Rahma): We believe the protection and well-being of every life is of paramount importance and we shall join with other humanitarian actors to act as one in responding to suffering brought on by disasters, poverty and injustice. Custodianship (Amana) : We uphold our duty of custodianship over the earth, its resources and the trust people place in us as humanitarian and development practitioners to be transparent and accountable. Dearest applicant, kindly consider the following: If the requirements of the application as above, is not met, we will consider the application as incomplete and this will therefore not be accepted. Please consider your application as unsuccessful if you are not contacted within a month after the closing date. Over and above operational requirements Islamic Relief South Africa will take into account the country’s and organizational employment equity imperatives. #J-18808-Ljbffr