Over the last few years I’ve worked on various projects in
Asia and Africa that were mostly volunteer- based, and now work for a large
INGO Organisation in Australia focusing on inclusive development practice. During
this time I have learnt an enormous amount from observing and working with
people from different cultures in developing countries, and experiencing the overwhelming
hardships faced by so many people every day. I realise this isn’t new to many, but
having been given a chance to experience such a different way of life first
hand, has created a new empathy towards basic human rights and sustainable development
which was absent before. I’ve always been passionate about wildlife and
environmental conservation, however previously lacked consideration for human
development when addressing environmental conservation issues.
An increased perspective began with my journey into the
sector as a volunteer and would like to quickly share the story with you all.
After finishing my degree in 2007 I decided I wanted to go
to Africa. Growing up I was always interested in the amazing wildlife of Africa
so I had to do it. I came across Global Vision International a Volunteer
Organisation which runs various conservation and development projects all over
the world. Check them out at www.gvi.co.uk .
They are based in Australia as well and I ended up working with them for the
next 3 years!
This was my first big trip overseas, and yes my parents were
apprehensive to say the least when I told them I wanted to go alone to Africa! I took the plunge and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I
volunteered for 5 weeks in South Africa at Karongwe Game Reserve working with staff
and a team of volunteers undertaking predator/prey research. As a young man
having just finished University it lit a fire under me, creating a new
direction and life I knew I couldn’t turn away from.
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| Zero, one of the male lions we monitored at Karongwe Game Reserve back in April 2008. |
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| Fellow volunteers and myself (far right) at a local school near Hoedspruit South Africa after a computer lesson |
There are a few important points to consider
if you are interested in volunteering. Remember that most volunteer projects
are not free and costs do need to be covered. Find out how your money is used
(transparency and accountability) and most importantly how the volunteer organisation
works in developing local partnerships, building partner capacity, working
on local advocacy and participation. It’s about finding an organisation that
suits your values and meets your criteria for a good volunteer project. Will leave you with one of
the best things I've ever heard from a good friend I worked with in Kenya, “It’s
not about you but about the communities we work with!”
Happy volunteering!
Best wishes and thanks,
Luke Purcell.
