Benefits of Volunteering Abroad

Elephants Sheldrick Trust Kenya

Should I volunteer abroad? Here are some reasons why you should volunteer in a developing country – a world of possibilities awaits you!

Whether you are a school leaver, undergraduate, or postgraduate, planning a gap year or career break, or just want to do something helpful, volunteering overseas can benefit you enormously. You will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare you for continued education, employment and adult life.

It will give you the point of difference that will make you stand out from the crowd. You will develop as a leader, a mentor, a teacher or a caregiver, as you take on responsible roles as a staff member at your placement. The skills you pick up look great on your CV, and will aid you not just in joining tertiary studies or the workforce, but in all your future pursuits.

You will gain an in-depth understanding of a new country and culture. While most people want to travel, actually living in a new country is a far cry from being a tourist. It allows you to see the challenges different people face and aids you in developing a global perspective. It is a unique and rewarding way to discover the world.

You can help in destinations really need the support of volunteers like you, which makes the experience even more worthwhile. Plus, of course… you will have an AMAZING TIME!

Discovering the world while you are young, in a structured and meaningful way, really will change your life! Organisations can make all the arrangements for you and support you every step of the way.

If you would like to leave your mark and help communities abroad, animals, the environment, all while experiencing the adventure of a lifetime, a volunteering placement could be for you!

Need some convincing that this is right for you? Check the benefits below:

Prepare for Your Future:

It is a springboard for discovering yourself and the world
Find inspiration and clarity for your future career options
Reinvigorate yourself by taking a break from formal education
Gain valuable work experience
Improve your CV and overall employability
Take time to consider options and help you plan for your future.
Visit the “University of Life”

Personal Development:

Improve confidence
Become independent
Take on roles of responsibility
Learn tolerance and become more open-minded
Accept new challenges
Enhanced decision-making
Advanced maturity

Relationship Building:

Meet new people and make new friends, both within the community and with other volunteers
Improve communication and relationship skills
Be part of a professional staff team
International connections

Lend a Helping Hand:

Give back, & make a difference in someone else’s life
Contribute to a community
Help where help is needed
Provide inspiration to others
Enjoy teaching people, & see how rewarding it is to have an impact on the lives of others
Help others in meaningful ways
Help people and communities who really need it and become an active member of the local community.
A rare opportunity to do something completely different.

Cultural Awareness:

Become immersed in a new culture & community
Develop new language skills
Gain new perspectives on life
Increase your adaptability
Heighten your understanding of global issues
Learn tolerance and respect
Live and work in a different culture, and experience life from another perspective.

Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone:

Discover and embrace how diverse the world really is
Adventure in your prime
Travel off the beaten track, and have a more ‘authentic’ and worthwhile experience than simply visiting as a tourist
Enjoy life & new experiences!
Go on a real challenge

Have we convinced you to apply? Search projects by destination:

Volunteer in Africa
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