Volunteer and Teach in Nosy Komba, Madagascar with IVHQ

From this experience, I not only grew as a person by adapting to cultural differences and everything that came my way, but I was also able to make an impact on the community. I was surrounded by friendly, intelligent, open-minded people who were always willing to help. I loved this experience and I can’t wait to do this volunteer work again. One recommendation I would give to someone who is about to start is to keep an open mind, be very willing to help the community, and know how to adapt in order to contribute in the best way possible. If one volunteers in the teaching program, I recommend having a lot of patience and love, and especially contributing with materials and support for the community.

One month was too short and I wish I could've stayed for MUCH longer! I hope and plan to return for a longer period one day :) Ampang has my heart! I went into this program having zero idea what to expect, I just always knew I wanted to teach English in Madagascar. The whole experience exceeded any expectations by 1000x. The staff is awesome, I've made so many close friends there and I loved learning the language and about the culture. Teaching there has made a huge impact on me and I am forever grateful for the experience and opportunity.

Overall, I felt very well prepared before starting my trip. I felt very well supported throughout the duration of my volunteer experience by the local team. What a great group of hard working individuals! I continue to reflect on the level of eagerness and interest demonstrated by the students, children, teens and adults. Children attended the classes despite being on school break! My favourite moment was hearing students call out my name while walking about in the village following my volunteer teaching experience. I couldn't believe they remembered my name. This trip generated a renewed sense of gratitude for all things available to me at home. If you are thinking about volunteering, go for it! You won't regret it and will only grow from the experience.

The 7 weeks I spent teaching in English were full of non stop smiles and laughter - you'll never feel alone or ever want to come home. I can't even begin to explain how much the kids that I taught had an impact on me - whilst in Madagascar I felt a happiness that I'd never felt before. You'll be welcomed with such warm hearts and their constant smiles do spread! The experience I had was enriching & fulfilling to say the least, I came home having felt I'd made an impact on the kids lives and I can't explain how that feels. You'll make friends for life, both with the volunteers and the local people you meet - and Jessi (the program co-ordinator) is a godsend. Nosy Komba is a dream and more!

I arrived in May to be a part of the Teaching Project. I was slated to stay for one month and within two weeks of teaching, I started really wishing that I could stay longer. I fell in love with my students, the people in the village, staff at our camp, the beauty of Nosy Komba, and I just knew that I had to stay. It's been a few months now and I'm already sad at the thought of ever leaving. Coming to Madagascar and being a part of this volunteer program has been a life changing experience and one that made me realize my dreams.