MAKE POSITIVE  DIFFERENCE IN LIVES OF PEOPLE  AS A VOLUNTEER IN SOUTH AFRICA

6 REASONS DOING VOLUNTARY WORK

Experience

Make new experiences.

Through your daily interactions with members of our local community, you’ll gain a better understanding of their culture, as well as the issues that affect that part of the world.

Change of perspective

Change your perspective.

Volunteering will give you a new perspective on your on cultural values and assumptions. It will expand the way you view things and give you the opportunity to see the world through other people’s eyes.

Vital component for future

Build your own future.

Regardless of your age or profession, volunteering will introduce you to new professional paths and gives you exceptional career opportunities.

Strengthen your personality

Develop yourself.

Working as a volunteer strengthens your personality.   You’ll learn a lot about yourself, as you take on the challenge of living and working in a completely new environment.

Language proficiency

Improve your English.

As South Africa is an English-speaking country, your daily work will give you the chance to enhance your language skills faster than you think.

Fun & memorable time

Have the time of your life.

Meet new people, form lasting friendships , get to know a magnificent culture, travel a beautiful country, make life-changing experiences and have memorable moments.

  • Leyla Oguz, Volunteer 2015

    “Volunteering in the township Vrygrond is an unique experience, which will last on your mind for a lifetime. The residents of the township need our support, education is unfortunately a scare good for them. It feels incredibly good, to help at least some of the people in Vrygrond. The gratitude of some participants really touched me. If I could fly back, I would immediately do so. “

  • Simone Nordmann, Volunteer 2014

      The Time in Cape Town, especially the work in the Computer Lab was an experience I wouldn’t want to miss. I would say volunteering was a huge challenge for me and at the same time one of the best experiences I’ve made so far in my life. I’m really glad that I had the chance to do voluntary work in country with an such a vibrant and diverse culture.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I apply?

To apply for the volunteering project in Vrygrond you are asked to fill in an application form online. Just scroll down. When we receive an application, we have a look over it and contact the applicant as soon as possible.

What qualifications do I need to volunteer with initiAID?

We want our volunteers to enjoy their time as much as they can. In return we expect you to take social responsibility, to be motivated and to respect new and different cultures.
You are communicative, open-minded and have a good command of English? Get involved, make a difference in the world and apply now.

What are my benefits of volunteering with initiAID?

We are a young and motivated team within everyone is needed. We need all kinds of skills to realize our work. No matter what‘s your strength – you‘re welcome to share it with us, develop and improve yourself. For us, it’s the person who matters. And we can guarantee you a fun, memorable and life changing experience.

Are start date and duration flexible?

You are free to choose the date and duration of your stay in Cape Town on your own. Just keep in mind the longer you stay the more you will be involved and the more you can enjoy your time in South Africa. In general, we prefer volunteers who are willing to stay from 3 up to 6 months. Also, make sure to apply as early as possible to help us organize and plan your stay.

Do I need to be able to speak the local language?

Although South Africa has 11 official languages, the people you will be working with understand and speak English. It is totally sufficient for you to communicate in English.

Do I require a visa to travel to South Africa?

Upon a stay in South Africa longer than 3 months a visa is required. However, we will give you all the important information and do support you with the visa application at the responsible consulate.

Will there be time to travel and do sightseeing while I am volunteering?

Normally you will work between 4 and 8 hours a day from Monday to Friday and you will be free on the weekends. So, there is enough time to explore the city and do all kinds of tourist activities in and around Cape Town. In addition, we want to support you soaking up the whole beauty of the country. Therefore, we explicitly allow you to travel around upon consultation with the other volunteers who are on-site.

What are the costs involved? Is the work paid?

Since you will do volunteering work, the work you will be doing will not be paid. Nevertheless, unlike many other organizations we do not require a payment for the volunteering commitment. Even so you are asked to pay your flight to South Africa, the monthly rent and all your living expenses on your own.