The idea of volunteering in Africa can be a daunting one considering the volume of information out there. The Internet is a wild place! Understandably, there is a lot that needs to get done before you can set out and this can be another source of fear, a fear of the unknown! But, don’t panic! It’s not as difficult or as cumbersome as you’ve been led to believe. I’m here to simplify the process for you with five easy steps.
Step One: Do Your Research
Google is your friend! Begin the process by simply typing “volunteering in Africa” into Google’s search bar and take your time browsing through the results. Searches can be narrowed down if you have a specific country in mind, or a particular field. At Tiritose Sustainable Travel in Zimbabwe we have volunteering opportunities within the fields of healthcare, wildlife & environmental conservation, as well as business innovation. If any of your friends have travelled to Africa for an internship, volunteer programme or a holiday, chat to them about their experiences and tap into their knowledge.
Step Two: Make Contact
Once you have decided on the companies you would like to approach, open up the lines of communication as soon as possible. Explain your specific needs and wants, find out more about the company and work towards dispelling any questions you have about travelling to Africa on your own.
Step Three: Look for Reviews
Much like booking a holiday or choosing a restaurant, reviews are an important part of the process when searching for volunteer opportunities in Africa. When you’ve narrowed down the company you’re interested in applying through, make sure to read through a number of reviews from past volunteers. Positive or negative, it’s good to know how others have fared before you.
Step Four: Apply!
While the application process might change from company to company, the basic principles remain the same. Read through the application carefully, fill it out as thoroughly as possible and provide all necessary accompanying documentation. Once you’ve submitted your application form, keep an eye on your mailbox and be prompt to reply when you receive a response.
Step Five: Approach Your Volunteer Programme with an Open Mind
Volunteering in Africa often involves stepping out of your comfort zone to discover the unknown. This can be daunting, but it’s best to let go of preconceived notions and welcome the different cultures, communities, and environments you encounter with open arms. Living in another country is a wonderful way to acquire life experience, gain independence and learn new languages as well as customs.
Step Six: Dedicate Yourself to The Process
The only thing left to do is to put your head down, work hard and enjoy your volunteer programme. With Tiritose Sustainable Travel, it’s not difficult to excel in this endeavour. We boast over 10 years of experience providing volunteer opportunities in Africa, and our programmes are designed to help you succeed.
If you have any questions about volunteering in Africa, or if you’d like to discuss the variety of options offered by Tiritose Sustainable Travel, simply get in touch with us on info@tiritose.com or +263 787 360 924. We are passionate about travel and are here to help with absolutely anything you would like to discuss regarding volunteering on this incredible continent.
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