AVIVA - Volunteering in South Africa

I would recommend AVIVA to anyone interested in volunteering in Cape Town. The Table View house is an awesome place to stay as great friendships, nights out, experiences and stories all seem to stem from this place. Thanks to all staff members who have made my time in Cape Town so easy and memorable in so many ways. I hope AVIVA grows and grows!!!

My 6 weeks in Cape Town have been some of the best weeks of my life. From my very first day in Cape Town, i was made to feel at home by the AVIVA staff. Working at Baphumelele was an incredible experience that I will never forget a moment of - those precious children will always stay close to my heart! Even if you are nervous about leaving home/family for an extended period of time, i would encourage anyone to come to South Africa & volunteer with AVIVA, you won't regret it - I promise! I know that South Africa & its hospitality & lovely people have gotten under my skin & that I'll definitely be back. South Africa has so quickly started to feel like home that I in no way want to leave!

The Amapondo project was so unreal. Port St Johns is truly the real Africa, so much culture and so different from anything I have ever experienced or probably ever will. I got to help out the community, I built desks for Sisonke School, gardened, and worked in the volunteer shop. One day I got to help Diane make pineapple jam. Every bit of money the project leaders make goes straight into the project to build a better community. Everyone was so nice and concerned that the volunteers were happy and having a good time. The beauty of Port St Johns is just breath taking. I'm so glad I got to go. Had I not I would never have been able to experience Africa. Cape Town was great and really fun, but to actually feel the African culture you need to get away from the city to an insane place like Port St Johns.

Dearest AVIVA Staff and volunteers, As you may know, this was my first time leaving America and I had mixed feelings about departing from the only place I had ever known. I must admit that sometimes I felt quite homesick and other times I felt I was home. There is an exceptionally cosy feeling that I got when living in the AVIVA House that made me feel comfortable... My stay has truly been an experience that I will never forget and will cherish for the rest of my life. From the baboons attacking me (thank you David for getting my purse) to the many nights relaxing on the sofa, I am absolutely pleased with the decision I made to come. The many experiences I have encountered have been eye opening and breathe taking at the same time. One of the reasons I came to South Africa was to find out whether I truly wanted to do social work in underdeveloped and developing countries after getting my M.S.W. Working with New Hearts for Africa has forced me to understand the different levels of poverty and the horrific experiences that people face by making them a reality... At this point I do not know what my life may entail and I am glad that I was given the opportunity to work with such an active program. The reason why I would so highly recommend AVIVA to anyone wanting to get involved in a volunteer project in South Africa is because it allows you to venture out and learn about the country. I was able to visit Robben Island, Hermanus, climb Table Mountain, ride a camel, just to name a few. South Africa is such a beautiful place to be and AVIVA makes sure that you are able to experience that and volunteer. I could not have asked for a better combination... I guess what I am trying to say is thank you. It was a great experience and I am glad I could be part of such an awesome program. AVIVA has made me realise that I want to travel more because there is so much to see in this world. Take care of yourselves and good luck in your future endeavours. I guess this is goodbye for now...

I loved every minute of my 5 weeks in South Africa! It was an experience that I would definitely recommend to anyone and everyone. The children at Baphumelele are fantastic, and I will miss them all very much! All the trips that were included are well worth doing! We particularly enjoyed the Peninsula tour, and were lucky that it was such a beautiful day. The other volunteers and AVIVA staff that I met were all great, and really helped make my trip a success. I also did shark diving while I was there, which was so amazing! Still can't believe I did it!!! Thank you AVIVA!

There's not a day that goes back when i don't think about my time at Baphumelele. My experience at the orphanage was enriching and holds a very special place in my heart. You cannot volunteer at Baphumelele without being affected by the beautiful children; they truly warm your heart- as corny as it sounds. Anyone who is apprehensive about doing something like this, i would say -don't think about it just do it- as you will learn so much about yourself whilst making a difference in lots of children's lives -plus- you get to meet other wonderful volunteers and people who are there for the same reason as you are. You couldn't have a better combination.

It's impossible to put into words the tale of my South African experience. I spent a beautiful 6 weeks working with the African penguins at SANCCOB, exploring Cape Town and all its treasures, and getting to know the friendly locals. My trip was everything I had hoped for and much much more. Working at Sanccob I was thrown straight in to the deep end due to the large number of oiled birds, quickly learning how to catch, feed, fluid and medicate. The work is hard and I developed some fantastic arm muscles as a result of it. Don't be fooled into thinking that this work is glamorous...I found myself picking up guano covered mats, scrubbing and cleaning the pens and pools on a daily basis, stinking of fish in my sexy oil skins. I had pretty much everything sprayed in my face - fish blood, cat food, Darrows, and of course, penguin poo. But don't get me wrong, I loved every minute of it. The staff and volunteers at the centre are so incredibly friendly, helpful and supportive, I have most certainly made a few friends for life. One of the best things about this project is that I spent most of my time with locals and felt completely immersed in the South African way of life. And of course, the penguins - what can I say? You just have to see them to truly understand how lovable and comical they are. I could not have asked for a better project to join and AVIVA made the whole process so easy. The personal attention that each volunteer receives is priceless, and I would whole heartedly recommend AVIVA as the company of choice for anyone who wishes to volunteer in South Africa. I left having fallen in love with the country, its culture, the penguins & but most of all with the people. I made some great friends out there and have come home with countless photos, souvenirs, but most of all, beautiful memories. Thank you AVIVA for everything! So, all that is left to say is - what are you waiting for?!?! Volunteer! It'll be one of the best things you ever do, but I warn you & 6 weeks is most definitely not long enough and as soon as you fly home you'll be planning your next trip out. It's true what they say about South Africa - it definitely gets under your skin! All the best, Sam

Most enjoyable parts: Hard to choose but: 1) seeing all the animals on the reserve and on the trips, 2) all the trips, especially the San Bushmen Walk, 3) the poo ID and tracking day and 4) just spending time with other volunteers in the hides or playing card games. Message to future volunteers: In a friendly, family atmosphere you can spend time immersing yourself in a truly amazing landscape. You will be contributing to a valuable conservation project as well as being given opportunities to enjoy an 'African lifestyle'! The animals are superb, the people are friendly and welcoming and it is a really beautiful part of the world to be lucky enough to spend time in!

For me this was the perfect end to my sabbatical year from work. I can highly recommend the whole experience - the project itself, the sightseeing activities, the AVIVA staff and the other volunteers. I felt completely looked after and at home without being mollycoddled. Baphumelele is a wonderful place. Be prepared to get dirty and get stuck in. Respect what is already in place and that improvements are constantly in hand even if not obvious at first. The children and workers are warm and welcoming and grateful for the time you spend, especially if you show due consideration for the fact that you are a visitor in their lives and remember Rome wasn't built in a day!

Most enjoyable parts: Felt so homely - we were made to feel really welcome straight away - has gone so fast. We have really enjoyed it and it was nice to do something so different. Camp out and trips to Rhinoland and the Rhino Museum was brilliant - Thank you. Message to future volunteers: A wonderful, different, safe experience on a South African Game Farm/ Reserve. A real happy family - orientated lifestyle with a good mix of hard work, relaxation and fun times. A wonderful array of experiences and animals to be seen, spotted or tracked and whilst it may not be all the BIG 5 - it's equally spectacular in a different way. You can do your own small part to maintain and preserve this beautiful Waterberg Biosphere.

It's been great! We really had a good group, thanks to all of you, will never forget this (oh, thanks to David for sending the baboon on to me... and chasing it away!) Too many good memories to all write down here, Sharks, penguins, people etc.. I think AVIVA is a great organisation, mostly because of the people who work for it, and if I will ever volunteer in S-A again I know I will do it through AVIVA!

My experience out in Cape Town was entertaining and enthralling. It evoked emotions and feelings which, even as an avid traveler, I had never experienced! The children were phenomenal, and I feel that I learned a whole lot about myself and life from them, much more than I could have ever given them in the short time I was there. In particular images of Zintle and Thina ( my two little princesses) remain dominant in my memories of Baphumelele. No matter how many times I have recited the stories to friends and family out here, and shown them the videos and pictures I still feel it does not quite portray everything I experienced!On another note, climbing Table mountain and looking out to sea was tranquil and insightful, it gave me the alone space people are always talking about but never actively seek to find! Robben island was depressing but great in that again it allowed me to gather my thoughts and feelings and understanding on political history on an individual basis. And what can I say? the last week of skydiving and paragliding and relaxation (which included the casino, numerous dinings at the waterfront and beach volleyball) provided me with the adrenaline rush of a lifetime!.. Enough to last till I return and shark dive (which unfortunately I missed out on this time!) In a weird way, after reading my diary I do think my 4 weeks have 'matured' me, but I guess I'm not the one to judge that! For everything however, I do think I owe you, Claire and David (who had to put up with a house full of girls!!! and silly requests) a heart felt THANK YOU. I know you must get a million and one people tell you, but honestly the opportunities AVIVA is providing for volunteers is phenomenal! Thank you for everything, I honestly can't wait till I'm back there, and to quote something I said to Lance last night ' i don't think I'll feel fully content till I return.' And I mean that in every way. I don't think I realised and took in all the surroundings, the townships and hardships and scenery while I was there, but I tell you on the whole entire flight back it was all I thought about! And even now, I do look wishfully out my window hoping to see the surf! So Thank you Again and again and again!As I head back to university in October, I do intend on serious fund raising, and promoting AVIVA so please forgive me if you get an huge influx of imperial scientists coming to you! Thanks again for absolutely everything you guys did, and on behalf of my parents for getting me back in one piece! Much love, Nush

Extraordinary service provided. I felt at home immediately, all my needs were met promptly with a smile efficiently. I would recommend this program to all, I felt very welcome, Thank you all. Come with no expectations and allow yourself to be open to all possibilities. Don't let life pass you by. Always be a beginner. The minute you think you know everything you shut yourself out of life. Wow! Deep huh? It is your experience and openness that makes you grow. I have learned a lot about myself this trip and so much about the new world I have opened myself to, what a treasure. Sharon

Most enjoyable parts: I enjoyed the variety and mix between the various activities. I enjoyed learning and I am so please I have seen a rhino (let alone given the option of chewing my finger nails). I liked the grass transects as you get to see the outcome of the work. It has been delightful to live as part of the family which really adds to the whole package. Message to future volunteers: An efficient and homely biodiversity project that enables you to stretch your grey cells as well as your muscles. A chance to gleam a better understanding of the bushveld of the little touched Waterberg Habitat, have close encounters with a variety of animals and locals. As well as other like minded volunteers. Out of the way simple, refreshing accommodation and surroundings provides the sought for contrast to hectic city life. The perfect add on to any trip to South Africa, or indeed form the basis of the trip itself.

I loved every minute of my time in East London, it was an amazing project to be involved in. Being at Inkwenkwezi has made me realise I have definitely chosen the right career path in choosing to study zoology at University. It was an incredible and sometimes unbelievable experience. I have also fallen in love with Cape Town, I didn't consider myself a city girl until I came here. Thanks to everyone who has made this trip all I hoped it would be. Laura

This by far is the best experience I've had in my entire life! It's opened my eyes so much to what people have and how happy they are with so little. The children at Baphumelele were so welcoming and their happiness and fondness of you is infectious! They always make you smile! The people I've met have become life-long friends and they've made the volunteering all the more special! Everyone needs to try AVIVA!! Ed and David, you're both legends! See you at Xmas hopefully :)

Volunteering has become the thing to do after years of routine in the same job, to A: give yourself a break and B: do some good in the world that does not necessarily benefit you directly. At Amapondo in Port t Johns the idea has become more of a philosophy - a practiced way of life. And the fulfillment you get when you pondify yourself is one of immense satisfaction. Port St Johns is on the East coast of South Africa, a small town buzzing with energy and wildlife, a very real slab of Africa, (but with hot showers and very tasty food!) It is here that a group of people; a mix of black Xhosa natives, white Afrikaans natives, a couple of English, two Canadian and one Dutch representative, all got together and formed a family. As this community grew, so the idea to make some realistic, practical and wholesome changes came about. Africa does not need saving. It does not need the western way of doing things thrust upon it. This is not the only way. And you begin to learn and understand this only by living and breathing amongst it, by volunteering. Amapondo's vision is to ensure empowerment, ownership and sustainability of a land and people through a series of projects and programmes. Their philosophy is not to try and impose western strategies and infrastructure, but to embrace and retain African culture and tradition every step of the way. By doing this, African people are not changing WHO they are, they are changing the way they do certain things in order to enhance, progress and develop their existing lives. So far, Amapondo and the team are on their way to opening a school based on interactive, all inclusive Waldorf principles of teaching and a small shop that will sell crafts, jams and goods made by their growing community. All profits will go towards the cost of running the school. An ambitious project using permaculture as its basis, (using land to create food, water and shelter) is also in the making, at Mama Pats, 45 minutes along a very bumpy dirt track on the back of an open top 4x4 up to a small village with no electricity, little sanitation and very basic food production. The idea is to transform the area into an ecological paradise: two types of biodegradable toilet, a nursery, a compost heap, a mud brick maker, a water pool, plots for fruit, veg, plants, space to keep animals and buildings for workshops and classes. The plot will act as a model for other communities to see and learn how best to make use of their land. On a sunny day you can see down to the ocean from Mama Pats and it's difficult to describe in words the beauty of the landscape and the sense of peace you feel when you're up here. As a volunteer you can work with the family at Mama Pats and the Pondo team to sow seeds, build chicken coops and plant gooseberry bushes. You can work with the teachers at the school, make crafts, garden, and learn Xhosa. You can create workshops for the boys at the local orphanage where there is talent and enthusiasm and laughter in abundance. A hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch and a bloody tasty dinner are all included - a good mix of traditional and western style grub. If you are looking to really experience Africa amongst the people who live, know and understand the land and its history, (and have an absolute blast doing it) then come to Amapondo. Day trips also included and they never work you too hard! It's an incredibly relaxed and beautiful place to be. I will never, ever forget my time here. Kelly Leach. UK.

I had a wonderful time because I was with amazing people. Thanks to you, and AVIVA, I opened my eyes on lots of things. I'm grateful to you because this experience changed me in better (hopefully!!!) I will always remember your kindness, maybe a speciality from AVIVA?! Meeting the others brought a lot, their motivations etc. You gave me the chance to meet incredible people devoting for a short time (or long) to others. Thank you Ed and Cheryl and Andrew. We will keep in touch and I'm looking forwards to come back. Daphne D'Cruz An email from Daphne's parents... Dear Ed, We just got home from the airport: Daphne has reached home safely (only her luggage is still in Paris and will be sent to us hopefully tomorrow). At this point, we wish to thank you sincerely for all the care extended to our daughter. She has had a wonderful time and she will soon be in touch with you. Our special thanks to Maureen, Cheryl and Robin, who have been a marvelous host family. Best wishes to all of you until our next contact. Paulette, Reginald and Daphne.

My three short weeks with AVIVA have been so amazing that I wish I could have stayed longer. South Africa is such a beautiful country and all the people I've met (from fellow volunteers to the AVIVA team and the people at the Tamboti Wildlife Conservation Project) helpe make this summer one of the best of my life. I am recommending the Tamboti project to everyone, and everyone who can should definitely include the Cape Town week. It has been an experience I will never forget. Remy

If you want a truly great experience then choose AVIVA. They'll look after you and organise any trips you may wish to do. Don't sit around on your days off from your project, get out there and explore, have fun, do everything you want to do - and more, get to know the country and its people as it's a wonderful place. I did so much from Sky Diving, Shark Cage Diving, Abseiling, Zip lining, Riding an ostrich, to visiting Jo'burg, travelling on the Garden Route and so on. I cam home totally exhausted but fulfilled, what more could I ask. Thanks Aviva Louise Hayward

Had an awesome time at AVIVA and at Baphumelele. Great volunteers, beautiful kids and wonderful staff. I'm so sad I'm leaving, it's been amazing! Lauren

I was walking back from the school yesterday with one of the training teachers and her husband when he asked me what was my favorite thing about Port St Johns and I was completely stumped! Every aspect of my time here with the Amapondo People Project has been absolutely incredible. I am so happy that from all of the hundreds of choices which came up when I googled - volunteer and South Africa, I decided to come to Port St Johns and be a part of this wonderful project with the amazing team of people who make it happen. And to choose a single favorite thing is, for me, impossible - so here goes with a list of my many favorite things! In no particular order. Forming friendships with the people who call Port St Johns home - from the passionate and dedicated Amapondo staff, the enthusiastic teachers-in-training at Sisonke School, the free-spirited boys from the Eluxoweni orphanage, and of course Mama Pat and her family up at the village where the sustainable development project is literally growing before your eyes. The generosity of all these people has to be seen to be believed. Never in my life have I met so many happy, friendly people and been made to feel so welcome; Afternoons at Eluxoweni spent playing games with the boys and teaching them acrobatic tricks - and the smiles and laughs shared with them as they learn a new skill or we stumbled over our attempts at the Xhosa language; Xhosa language lessons given by one of the school teachers. A lot of fun - although the clicks are completely beyond me!; Participating in activities at the school - from helping out in the garden to being taught various crafts by the teachers to giving my own lesson to assisting with English lessons. Every day the activity was different but always lots of fun!; Spending days enjoying the fresh air and sunshine up at the sustainable development village, learning plenty about the principles of permaculture and getting my hands dirty weeding, digging, planting, sewing, watering and building; Our weekend camping trip to the spectacular Magwa Falls. An hour and a half drive from Port St Johns this little piece of paradise has some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen and is the home of some gorgeous children who want to play with you& or who are just as happy to walk along with you. A wonderful experience and one I will never forget; Spending a morning up at the absolutely stunning and tranquil Forest Glade picking mangoes and being part of the team in the starting phases of a mango atchar making fund raising extravaganza! Morning runs followed by a swim and yoga on the beach to start the day; Followed by an always fabulous breakfast and all of the delicious fresh meals produced by Paul and his team in the kitchen. Yummo!; Relaxing in a hammock and enjoying the beautiful environment - beaches, cliffs, forest, mountains, rivers and waterfalls. Simply stunning; Before I came here I read on the website that visitors to Port St Johns often end up staying much longer than they anticipated. Now that it is me who is leaving I can completely understand the difficulty people have saying goodbye to this place. It truly is just a beautiful part of the world, and combined with the relaxed lifestyle, the friendships made and the laughs shared I have had the absolute time of my life! If you are considering volunteering with Amapondo I really cannot recommend it highly enough as a way of experiencing the real Africa with a truly fantastic group of people!

This has been an unforgettable, life-changing experience. I loved my time in South Africa. I now have hundreds of memories with new friends from all over the world. To all those at AVIVA, you have a great program, keep up the good work!