Volunteering - A journey for all involved!

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.

Zero, one of the male lions we monitored at Karongwe Game Reserve back in April 2008.

My volunteer experience in South Africa far exceeded my expectations, formed great friendships and something I’ll always remember. Volunteering creates the opportunity to be a part of something bigger, it challenges you and makes you realise what we as humans can truly be capable of. Depending on your interests, it allows you to work with wildlife, alongside local communities in training, teaching or even working side by side on food/water security projects. The great thing is you don’t need experience and it can kick start your career as it did mine; if you are willing there is a way!!  

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.