African Impact

Hello , My name is Kyoung ju KIM. From South Korea. I had a great time for 3 weeks through UCESCO. Doing volunteer with my daughter and son. We learned a lot from there. We did teaching and cooking for Peggy Lucas School which is located in Kibera slum. It's very safe. Ucesco staff managed everything well if we need something. It was really have a worth that doing volunteer there. Anyone who is afraid of apply, Don;t be afraid. Also, you will meet volunteers all of the world. it's amazing that I can do something for anyone else. It's possible to do volunteer work with teenagers, and it's possible for all volunteers to do what they can do. Three weeks was a really meaningful time in Kenya.

At 54, it was my first time volunteering and my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. With UCESCO, everything was well taken care of. I lived in a building with other volunteers, who were btw just amazing!!! Bonding among volunteers was facilitated by shared meals, prepared by a very special local lady, who also supported us in many other ways. This allowed me to focus 100% on the project (teaching in high school). Most UCESCO people I worked with, used to or still live in the slums, so their involvement is selfless and truly comes from the heart. I have now witnessed firsthand how a small NGO works and can highly recommend volunteering with UCESCO. Their work addresses a major problem in Africa, and seeing this work from the ground was an amazing experience.

Avoid the Maasai Mara African Impact program. I signed up for a 4 week conservation and research trip in the Maasai Mara in Kenya. The trip promised contributions to vital research with Big Cat and Elephant programs. When I arrived it was clear that there was no serious research going on, no one with research experience in charge of the project, dysfunctional administration and serious communication issues with staff who were leading the volunteers. The location where volunteers were housed and fed was located an hour or more on a rough road to the "research areas" where 1 km game drives (approx 20 minutes) collected data maybe four times a week. Lots of wasted fuel for little data. Additionally, longer drives made to a neighboring conservancy were basically 12 hour game drives with a little time out to pull weeds. It was never made clear to me how any data that was collected was used with the larger programs. I saw no definite communication between the Mara Elephant Project nor the Mara Predator Conservation project and left with a very small understanding of their mission and what they do. The research equipment consisted of one phone with Earth Ranger app installed, three camera traps with only one functioning unit. As a veteran of similar genuine research studies in the region it was clear to me that the program lacked a lead scientist to design a process that would provide infomation to serve Pardamat conservancies long range conservation plans. The weekly school visits and trips to nearby Aitong during market day were basically diversions. The school visits were disorganzied -and with no plan, they mostly served as a disruptive experience and a big missed opportunity. When all else failed we pulled invasive weeds. A strong warning if you are thinking of joining this program. The food is very basic -fried dough, cabbage, ugali, potatoes, rice, spaghetti without sauce -next to no fresh vegetables, and most vegetables were overcooked in the meat sauce. Rice crackers for gluten-free dieters. Fruit only if you asked for it. Not a healthy diet for volunteers. I decided to depart the program early, as more than a few previous volunteers have done, and was met only with "thank you for your suggestions on how to improve our program". This was a lot of money wasted and I left with a very negative opinion of African Impact. If you want a real volunteer conservation experience I recommend Biosphere Expeditions and Imire Rhino Conservation (Imire resells Imire but I recommend you book direct so more money goes to conservation and not marketing).

I am beyond grateful for my 1-month volunteer experience with African Impact in Cape Town. From the moment I arrived, the warmth and professionalism of the team made it unforgettable. When I first arrived at the airport, Thulani, the program manager, was already waiting, and ready to give us an engaging introduction to the history and scenery of Cape Town. After a 20+ min drive we arrived at The Lenox hostel. The Lenox became my home for the month, and the staff made sure it felt that way. Everyone was very kind and welcoming at all time. I got a bunk bed in a shared room with four amazing fellow volunteers from different countries. The room was very spacious and comfortable. The facilities were bright and welcoming, with breathtaking views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain from the lounge balcony. I joined the Early Education program, which I highly recommend if you love working with children and creating engaging learning experiences. Through this program I worked with four different nonprofits located in Khayelitsha, their work is centered around fostering children and youth development. Our schedule was almost the same every day; breakfast with all the volunteers, then going out to support an org. in the morning, coming back to the Lenox for lunch (amazing fresh and delicious food by the way) and then going back to support another org. in the afternoon. Our day concluded around 5 pm, after documenting our experiences, and preparing for the next day. Then dinner time, a great time to get to know the other volunteers and share stories. The rest of the afternoon was free time for us to unwind and enjoy visiting places around Cape Town or do a sightseeing activity planned by the staff. The most rewarding part was getting to work directly with nonprofits like Ikasi Soccer School and foster care homes like Fikelele. My favorite task while on project was to sing and play with the kids. Witnessing the impact of our efforts and the joy on the children’s faces are core memories from this experience. I don’t think I can put into words how fulfilling this experience was for me. This experience taught me so much about collaboration, creativity, and the joy of giving back. Volunteering with African Impact was life changing. It’s a core memory filled with friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a difference while exploring the vibrant culture of Cape Town.

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the teaching program is a 10/10 program, you get to fully know the place you stay in by doing lots of activities and getting to know the people all around the zone. Staff tries their best in making your stay as comfortable as possible and everyone is so friendly. There are a lot of chances to make friends and get to know the people you work with and the local teachers are really friendly. Also zanzibar is one of the best places i’ve ever seen, with lots of activities to do.

African Impact Livingstone is doing an incredible job in promoting sustainable and community development and empowerment. Their initiatives not only enhance local livelihoods but also offer cultural exchange and awareness. The dedication, hard work and research of the staff in supporting education, health, sports, conservation, medical, parenting and much more is truly inspiring. Volunteers have the opportunity of assisting, helping and getting stuck in /involved with a variety of projects. I volunteered to help children appreciate the benefits and attributes of sport, games and fitness. Team work, having fun and respecting the rules of sport. I’ve had the most precious experiences with over 100 school children of various Year Grades and ages. Resources and equipment is limited within every project so when volunteering don’t expect to use or have resources and materials, medical supplies & equipment as you may have in your home country. Respect the hard work provided and incredible enjoyment and benefits children and the community receive. The food at the centre is varied nutritious with limited spending budget, and accommodation basic but clean provides everything you need. Hot water showers and electricity supply is also limited but again if you have western world ideals perhaps this isn’t for you. Personally I’ve had the most incredible four weeks of my life and already organising my return trip in 2025. The surroundings in Livingstone provide what you need. Activities like Chobe safari, village tour, fabric market or thrilling activities are also offered via Victoria falls Backpackers reception. African Impact staff, Sports coach, management, cooks, groundsmen and housekeepers, security and community staff/drivers are all special human beings that care & ensure your stay is comfortable and suitable. The backpackers bar is both quiet and lively when required. The pool a refreshing necessity in the Zambian heat. Keep up the fantastic work;your positive impact is making a real difference in the communities you serve and inspiration to myself and other volunteers. I will miss you all and thank you for being YOU, beautiful inside and out. Much love Vimala ❤️

I enjoyed my time with the African impact team in Livingstons, Zambia. The team are professional, supportive and friendly. They are willing at all times to help out both in terms of during project activities and during leisure time. They take their work extremely seriously and are passionate about what they do

This was a wonderful experience. Not only were the guides and coordinators very knowledgable and thoroughly engaged the participants, but getting to be a part of important research and conservation work was an honour. I really enjoyed meeting people from around the world and being surrounded by like-minded people. This is a wonderful program!

I spent 3 weeks in Zambia and had the most amazing time. The staff are all very welcoming and friendly. I absolutely loved being on project, the children were so enthusiastic about learning which made our job even more enjoyable. There is plenty of activities to do in the evenings and on weekends.

I recently had the opportunity to participate in the Sports Coaching Volunteer Project with African Impact in Cape Town, South Africa. This experience turned out to be incredibly fulfilling and eye-opening, both personally and professionally. As part of the project, I worked with local children and youth, coaching them in various sports. The goal of the program was to use sports as a tool to teach essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and self-confidence, while also promoting physical activity. My role involved organizing and leading sports sessions, and it was amazing to witness how much the kids enjoyed participating and improving their skills. One of the most rewarding aspects of the experience was seeing the positive impact on the children. Many of them lacked access to structured physical activities, and it was clear that sports provided them with not only a fun outlet but also valuable lessons that could help them in other areas of their lives. It felt incredibly meaningful to be part of their development, not just as athletes but as individuals. On a personal level, this experience taught me so much. I learned to adapt quickly to a new environment and work with a diverse, multicultural team. The program pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. It also reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back to the community and the power of mentorship. Like any experience, there were challenges. One of the main difficulties was the language barrier with some of the children, but with the help of my fellow volunteers and some creative non-verbal communication, we were able to connect and achieve our goals together. This experience taught me the importance of flexibility and patience in overcoming obstacles. Overall, my time with African Impact in Cape Town was incredibly rewarding. It gave me the chance to contribute meaningfully to the community while gaining invaluable life experiences. I would highly recommend this volunteer program to anyone looking to make a difference and grow both personally and professionally.

What an experience. This was an experience that I will remember for life. I fulfilled a dream, I met many interesting people and I had the chance to see the animals that populate Africa live and up close.

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience teaching in Zambia. Things were organised well here and there was a good variety of after school activities but I felt the evening time could have been used more productively. I would have loved to spend an hour one/two evenings a week with the local elderly people perhaps at a care home. The group dynamic was good for the first half of my time here until all the original people left and 9 Italians joined. Although efforts were made by management to encourage them to be inclusive and to speak English, they didn’t comply. This created a split in the group and greatly affected the overall dynamic. The rooms are organised by gender but a girl and a boy were sharing a bed for the majority of the nights. This group were just highly disrespectful on a lot of levels. When I was sick, the staff on the ground were so attentive to me and guided me towards the correct medicine to purchase also. One thing that took me by surprise was when I asked about buying school supplies for the school I was volunteering in and leaving them with the principal for her to decide how best to use them. I had fundraised and gathered donations that I assumed I would have the liberty of deciding how my that money should be spent, to be told that any donations had to be left with African Impact and would be used as incentives/prizes for their projects. The staff were so lovely and I met a lot of lovely people. However, I think volunteers should be over the age of 18 as immaturity affects impact hugely.

The Zanzibar African Impact Dolphin & Marine Conservation Project was an opportunity to not only monitor dolphins, boat drivers and tourist, but to interact with the local people. We also monitor the local Fish Market, worked at the Zala Park Community Garden, monitored the coral reefs and had a weekly dinner in the Community.

I have loved every second of being here! The community is the best thing and you get to know the staff so well here. It feels like home and I really don’t want to leave. The food is amazing! You get into the culture so much I feel as though I live here and am always welcome!

I spent a month in Zambia and it was one of the best months of my life. The staff were incredibly nice and helpful if I ever had a problem. All the volunteers were lovely and program really felt like you were making an impact. All the activities on the weekend were also very well organised. I would definitely recommend to anyone who was thinking of doing it.

This has been an amazing experience. Everyday was filled with amazing experiences, everyone I have met on the project has been so friendly and welcoming. Nellie, Abbas, Alberto and Ani are amazing. I honestly wish I could stay longer, but I definitely want to come back.

Staying in Zanzibar doing this volunteering was a dream come true, since I had always wanted to try working with children. It’s a great experience for all ages and types of persons. I have met amazing people from all over the world and I am really greatful to have been able to do this with african impact.

Overall my time in Zanzibar has been absolutely incredible, the experiences I have had the opportunity to enjoy has really been a blessing and I’m so thankful for all the people involved. I have learnt so much about the island and about myself and how I carry myself from day to day. I will value my time here so much and take back all my amazing lessons which will help me to appreciate everything we have at home. Overall this time has been amazing the location was incredible, the support from the staff was amazing and the hospitality was unbeatable

the experience was beautiful but the cost was too high compared to the lifestyle. Many times they didn't know what to do and I worked in jobs that were far from my chosen program. Much information was missing before departure. Food is scarce and limited. Experience to have but totally changing mode

This has been the most amazing experience of my life. The people of the organization are just wonderful and the program is incredible. It makes you understand what is really important in life. Zikomo!