Go Volunteer Africa

Studying abroad was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Living in a different country pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and academically. I was exposed to new cultures, languages, and perspectives that changed the way I see the world. Everyday activities—such as navigating public transportation, communicating with people from different backgrounds, and adapting to a new education system—taught me independence and resilience. One of the most rewarding parts of my experience was meeting people from many different countries. Through friendships and shared experiences, I learned about traditions, food, and ways of thinking that were completely new to me. These interactions helped me develop stronger communication skills and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. Academically, studying abroad allowed me to explore subjects from a global perspective and learn from professors with different teaching styles. Outside the classroom, traveling to nearby cities and historical sites helped me better understand the region’s history and culture. Overall, my time abroad expanded my worldview and gave me confidence to face new challenges. It was not always easy, but every challenge became an opportunity to learn and grow. I returned home with unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and a stronger sense of who I am and what I want to achieve in the future.

My name is Lukas Powell, born on 23 November 2003, and I am an American volunteer from the United States. In January 2026, I had the opportunity to volunteer with Go Volunteer Africa in Mukono, Uganda, an experience that was both meaningful and transformative. During my time in Mukono, I was warmly welcomed by the local community and the Go Volunteer Africa team. I gained valuable hands-on experience while working alongside local staff and other volunteers, and I learned a great deal about community development, teamwork, and cultural exchange. The experience challenged me to adapt to a new environment, think creatively, and approach tasks with patience and respect. Volunteering in Uganda helped me grow personally and professionally. I developed stronger communication skills, became more culturally aware, and learned the importance of service-driven work. The support and guidance provided Go Volunteer Africa made my experience rewarding and well-organized, and I always felt encouraged and valued as a volunteer. Overall, my volunteer experience in Mukono was extremely positive and impactful. I am grateful to Go Volunteer Africa for the opportunity, and I would highly recommend their programs to anyone seeking a meaningful and authentic volunteering experience in Africa.

My volunteer experience in Uganda, Mukono through Go Volunteer Africa was truly one of the most meaningful and unforgettable experiences of my life. From the very beginning, everything was well organized, supportive, and deeply authentic. Mukono is a beautiful place peaceful, welcoming, and full of life. Being part of the local community allowed me to experience Uganda beyond tourism. The people were kind, open-hearted, and always willing to share their culture, stories, and smiles. My hosts, Isaac and Sandra, were absolutely amazing. They went above and beyond to make me feel safe, comfortable, and at home from day one. Their hospitality was genuine, warm, and full of care. They were always available to guide, support, and encourage me, not just as a volunteer, but as part of their family. Thanks to them, I quickly adjusted to life in Mukono and truly felt like I belonged. The volunteer work itself was impactful and fulfilling. It was inspiring to see how even small efforts can make a real difference in the community. I learned so much about Ugandan culture, resilience, community values, and myself. This experience changed my perspective and left me with memories and friendships I will treasure forever. I highly recommend Go Volunteer Africa to anyone looking for a meaningful, well-supported, and life-changing volunteer experience. And if you get the chance to stay with Isaac and Sandra, consider yourself very lucky, you will be in the best hands. This was not just volunteering; it was a journey of growth, connection, and purpose. Uganda is a beautiful country in all aspects - the people, the landscape, and the rich culture all made my time there the most amazing experience. There are many diverse volunteer projects with Go Volunteer Africa scattered across the country from Kampala, Mukono, Jinja, Masaka etc. My volunteering experience in Mukono was exceptional! The opportunity to get to know and work with the others on the team was a pleasure. I was more than satisfied with all aspects of my time there. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and that goal was definitely met! Thank you Go Volunteer Africa and thank you team Uganda for the wonderful experience.

There is nothing that I can complain about, even if I looked through every minute detail of my experiences with this company. I loved my experience so much, I have spent the past 3 summers in Uganda with Go Volunteer Africa doing different voluntary projects. The staff make sure that you are well looked after and cared for, and make sure you never feel alone even when you are so far from home. This company has given me the opportunity to meet so many amazing people and create so many great memories. I have done both the teaching sports project and the building work project, and in both projects there was no shortage of work to do, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. The staff in Uganda and at office are extremely helpful, and go out of their way to fix any problem that arises. The staff in Uganda are on hand 24 hours a day and would have no qualms to take you to a doctor in the middle of the night if you felt unwell. I had the pleasure of staying with a wonderful host family, which I stay in touch with. They welcomed me into their home like one of their own, and for that I will be forever grateful. Thank you go volunteer Africa!

Dear ________ I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in volunteering at your organization I've always admired the work volunteering in our community and I'm eager to contribute my time and skills to your valuable initiatives. I believe my strong communication skills, organizational abilities, experience working with diverse groups would be a great asset to your team. In my previous experience volunteering at a local organizations I gained valuable skills. I am available to volunteer and I am reliable, dedicated, and a quick learner, and I am keen to support the positive impact has on our community. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Gemechu Workineh.

I didn't know anything about the Go Volunteer Africa before I decided to apply to volunteer in Uganda, and I chose them because it was the best option that I found through researching many different options. I wanted to do something hands one. Go Volunteer Africa was the best value for time and money. The team that runs Go Volunteer Africa are extremely passionate about their work in the rural communities and share the little they have with others. I highly recommend this organization to other volunteers. During my 8 weeks volunteering at Go Volunteer Africa, I was afforded the best experience of my lifetime, I got involved in a number of projects and visited many different locations within Uganda, and I got a rich experience of what life is really like. Looking forward to visit the team again.

I traveled to Uganda, to volunteer with Go Volunteer Africa for 2 weeks. So the first thing I can say is that always apply for more weeks, if you really want to experience the Ugandan culture, and also to enjoy what Uganda has to offer. It was the best experience I have had in my life so far. My experience was very authentic and valuable to my profession as medical student. I at some point stayed with other volunteers at the Volunteers’ house but most of the time stayed with a sweet host family in Mukono. The Country Manager, Isaac was so incredibly warm and welcoming. Although I didn’t see him often, but he was always available, when we needed him, he knows every bit of his culture and he is a good resource. The truth is nobody is prepared to come to Uganda until you come but believe me, after you are ready for everything and you will never want to leave! I am incredibly grateful to the entire Ugandan team and Go Volunteer Africa for making my experience so rich. Overall, this was a very humbling and realistic way to experience Uganda and the rural culture and healthcare system. Thank you!

Pre Departure: Anna always got back to our team very quickly and answered all our questions that were great and really comforting. Arrival/Airport Pickup: Isaac in Uganda was there even though our flight was late and that was very good. Isaac was a great driver and stopped for us to get water. Placement: I really enjoyed working 2 projects, they were both very different but all of the staff members were very welcoming and allowed us to work with the children in the best way possible. Home stay/host family & meals: The group got to stay together under one roof so we felt really comfortable. The host family was wonderful. The Ugandan family were very friendly and welcoming. Highlights of your placement: Getting to know the children and teaching my own class at Hope Children’s Academy was really interesting and rewarding. The kids at Mukono were always full of joy and Isaac was fun to be around. Any unique experiences?: Learning a bit of Luganda, waking up and seeing children waving Mzungu, waking up to roaster crowing, walking the streets by ourselves, and getting to know the wonderful town of Mukono. We saw a lot of animals and the trip was great. Would you recommend this program to others? Yes, I will let others know about these programs and recommend they go to Mukono. It is beautiful there and the people are wonderful. Thank you so much for everything. I will cherish this experience always and I hope to return someday soon to work with the organization again. Thank you.

Subject: Feedback on Voluntary Work for RSDO in Rwamagana. Dear RSDO and mister Faustin, I want to thank you for the opportunity to be part of this project in Rwanda. It was a meaningful experience, and I truly enjoyed working with the children and young women, especially in encouraging their participation in sports. Seeing their enthusiasm and being able to provide sports equipment to schools was incredibly rewarding. The housing arrangements were good, and I appreciated the balance of staying with mister Faustin while still having my own privacy. It made me feel welcome and comfortable throughout my stay. One aspect that could be improved is the pace of the work. At times, I felt that things moved a bit slowly, and having more structured activities could enhance the impact of the program. However, I also understand that this might be part of the local culture and way of working. Overall, I am grateful for this experience and would love to stay involved in any way I can. Thank you again for all the support! Best regards, Sol van Berg

In November 2023 I spent about a month in Tanzania as a volunteer for the Rafikisana Foundation. I got a nice room with a shower at the volunteers house, where also good, typical meals were provided for those staying over. Together with his wife, the headmaster of the school I was assigned to, took good care of me. They took me from and to the airport, regularly invited me to a restaurant or bar and, most importantly, agreed with me on what I should do at the school site. I opted for the set-up of a reading class, a dedicated room for the kids to have a separate session, at their specific level, to improve their English reading and writing skills. The kids really liked it, being away from their classroom and getting the full attention of a teacher! :-) On the weekends I also got the occasion to visit the country as a tourist: we walked to the Kilimanjaro waterfalls, visited a Masaai village, went on safari and even flew to Zanzibar! I can strongly recommend this to other possible volunteers: it's a perfect combination of adventure and giving back to society!

Go Volunteer Africa team led by Anna did such a great job, communicating with us via email and gave us the encouragement we needed to take this step with our family. Thanks so much. It was great to have Emily at the airport to meet us. The school and Head teacher Moureen - all were excellent. Thank you for being so flexible with us and providing such a fantastic experience for our family. We will remember it for the rest of lives! Gorretti does a good job cooking for us and taking great care of the house. We felt very fortunate to be well taken care of. We look forward to keeping in touch with them and the projects they are helping. We are now in Uganda, working on a construction project and we shall also share our volunteering experience. Our children are involved in tree planting project, very amazing experience so far and they love it, and every day is great.

I decided to volunteer abroad as every now and then I like to do something that puts me out of my comfort zone, so I chose Uganda as I wanted to go somewhere that I had never been before and somewhere I didn't actually know much about, so I would be in a situation that was unfamiliar to me. I decided to come here after leaving college as I believed the experience would help my confidence and independence for going to university – I figured that if I could go to a foreign country by myself and live with a family I had never met before, then moving out and studying for a degree shouldn't be a problem! I decided to come with Go Volunteer Africa because of the support that was given. Even before I had made my mind up at to exactly where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do, they were on hand to answer any questions that I could think of. I have been part of the 4 week special placement, which I have really enjoyed. My host family has some of the nicest people I have ever met. They have made me feel so welcome and comfortable and the food! The first week I was here felt like a crash course in getting to know Kampala and its history, as it included visits to places such as the Mabira rainforest and source of the longest river in the world- the Nile. I got to visit and work at the children’s center which many of the children attended. Those children displayed a tremendous amount of energy and love, attaching themselves to you at any opportunity! I definitely felt like a piece of my heart was left behind there. I am already planning my next trip to Kenya now with Go Volunteer Africa, but it might be more wishful thinking seeing as I am about to become a student! But my advice to those thinking of volunteering is not to think about it too much, obviously planning for your trip is important but try not to get too caught up in what might or might not happen when you're here – just go for it, you won't regret it.

Before leaving for Uganda, I was told by many friends and family that I was about to have the 'experience of a lifetime'. Truth be told, I thought this was an extremely cheesy expression and I didn't seem to share their enthusiasm because at that point I was beginning to question why I was about to put myself through this - at only 18 years old, I was VERY nervous to travel to another continent alone and speak in a different language. My nerves were instantly put to rest upon arriving in Uganda. The Local Coordinators were there to pick me up and I was instantly greeted with the Ugandan atmosphere - welcoming and so much fun! I can say in all honesty that during this first trip with Go Volunteer Africa, I did not feel homesick for one moment of the two months that I spent. In fact, I was devastated to leave. When I first met my host family I was keen to see where I would be staying and who with as I had no idea what to expect. I couldn't have imagined a better family and other volunteers to have stayed with during my trip. I found all the local people that I met to be so light hearted friendly and generous, and my host family were no different. I also had two other volunteers staying at the house with me, with whom I became and remain close friends! I arrived at the house at dinner time, when I was introduced to both my house mates and the local food. Having never eaten a real “organic” meal in my life, it was difficult at first to get used to, but within a very short space of time I was an expert and loved the healthy dishes!! My daily routine began soon after arrival which for me consisted of a morning at a local hospital and an afternoon spent at a children’s centre. This, I was able to combine two of the projects available and therefore share my time. I loved this as it was two completely different experiences and let me meet so many people. At 18, I was hoping to go on to study medicine, so the time spent in the hospital was a valuable learning experience and something that was fantastic for my future CV. I was able to help in some tasks and saw many procedures carried out. The staff in the hospital were really friendly and so keen for me to try what I could. I also visited many different schools with the medical coordinator to tell the children about the importance of brushing their teeth etc. and to help if we could with any ailments they had. This was a great experience as the coordinator was keen for me to learn and even provided me with details of some of the common diseases seen there. Overall, I think it's obvious that I was incredibly impressed with Go Volunteer Africa and I have since recommended them too many friends. I had a fantastic time in Uganda and in terms of my placements, my host family and the social aspect, they couldn't have been better.

After my volunteer placement in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania where I was doing the teaching volunteer project, my next destination was Mombasa, Kenya. I knew nothing about Kenya, so this country was a mystery to me. When I arrived, I was amazed. Kenya is beautiful. The view I got in the plane was mind-blowing and was getting me hyped up for my time there. In Kenya, I was doing the women empowerment project. So basically, I was working with women on their income generating projects! I worked with a Canadian volunteer called Alyssa. The work was very challenging but also very rewarding and really tested my capabilities. Like Tanzania, Kenya was wonderful. Not only the people there, but the culture and the country itself were just beautiful. I managed to make more friends in Kenya just like Tanzania, and my host family was the nicest people. They treated me like their own and this not only helped me with my Swahiri but I got to know their way of life. The Go Volunteer Africa local staff was so helpful throughout our stay. After everything, Tanzania & Kenya were unbelievable beautiful and I was very sad to leave. Tearful goodbyes and long hugs from the family, and before I knew it I was flying to my next and final, destination. Now, I was supposed to be there on the 22nd December 2024. However I misplaced my passport which delayed my travels to Uganda. So I left for Uganda on the 2nd January 2025, just after New Year. My final destination is Mukono, Uganda. Where I am spending my final 4 weeks, with another host family and I taking part in coaching various sports to local children. Sports is something I love doing in my free time so this work is extremely fun! I am teaching young kids how to swim, and because swimming is my favourite sport, I have no problem in the pool! Mukono itself is a very small but beautiful city with green villages. From visiting the source of River Nile, and taking part in zip-lining it was a fantastic time! I attempted a bungee jump but the nerves got the better of me! The weather itself here is a bonus. Go Volunteer Africa is a fantastic organization. On my parents behalf I can say they are extremely helpful and supportive. Doing a Gap Year has not only made me grow up, but has changed my views on life and made me think about my future.

At my volunteer internship in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania my life was changed. I had one of the most eye opening experiences possible. Day-to-Day I worked under the doctors and nurses at the local government hospital. I was able to assist and learn from the staff and over time felt completely at home there. My host family went above and beyond to make me feel welcomed and safe. Through them, I was able to experience the true culture of Tanzania. The staff of Go Volunteer Africa were always there to make you feel safe and have fun with. They planned outings for all of the volunteers and were a good ear to listen to our worries and expectations. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in volunteering or learning about medical procedures in Africa.

I loved my volunteering experience with go volunteer Africa, I only wish I had volunteered for longer than just 3 weeks! It's left me wanting more and I’m already hoping to return. I stayed in Arusha, with 2 other volunteers (younger than me) and this children support care project made me realize how blessed I was and how great it was to make an impact in the lives of other children, after raising my 2 children. I came home knowing that I truly made a difference in the lives of the children I was involved with. The group leaders did a great job of keeping us informed of what was going on and I didn't feel out of the loop as some people might feel when starting on a new project. I was very involved with everything and my group leaders were there every step of the way to help the volunteers out. If you are looking for a volunteer experience that is legitimate, sustainable and enjoyable all whilst making a truly valuable impact then look no further, than this organization. I spent half my time supporting teaching at a children’s centre in a local Arusha township and the other half - a truly incredible project that supports grandmothers to provide after-school care, fun and food to children. I learnt more than I could have imagined, not just about the culture and lifestyles of the communities, but also about the nature of volunteering abroad itself. It's about offering support whilst remaining completely sustainable, less about the hand outs and more about enabling and empowering others. This means that your impact is truly lasting and unforgettable. At the children’s centre you will meet some very special children who will fall in love with you as soon as you walk in through the front door! Their squeals of joy and the songs they will teach you will buzz around your head forever. I spent most mornings reading stories, teaching English and supporting their play. I do have a lot to share and I don’t think this space will be enough, all I can say, I recommend this wonderful organization for connecting me to the perfect volunteering experience. Although I am 54 and most of the other volunteers were young people, I enjoyed my time with everyone.

Traveling to Stone, Zanzibar was a life-changing experience. Go Volunteer Africa gave me the opportunity to take a career break. I worked on a vulnerable children caring project in Zanzibar to help an Educate centre (an early childhood school) with its daily activities. I got to do what I love and the experience was amazing. The opportunity was simply what I was looking for! Not only did my work help young children in need but I forged lasting relationships with the school staff, Go Volunteer Africa staff, other volunteers, and my host family. I definitely recommend this project.

I really did have such an amazing trip in Tanzania with Go Volunteer Africa and would absolutely recommend it to anyone. I chose them primarily as they were the cheapest organisation I found, but honestly they cut no corners. Go Volunteer Africa were very helpful with my questions beforehand and managed to get me sorted even though I only enquired 3 weeks before my departure date! Everything needed was given to me in writing which was a comfort and was very accurate information. The pre-departure support from Paul and his local team was so useful. Arrival was very easy on my part and the volunteer house in Dar-es-Salaam is perfect! I settled in so quickly as all the in-country Go Volunteer Africa staff were so lovely and helpful as well as the other volunteers being amazing. I spent 4 weeks in Tanzania and I wish I had gone earlier and stayed longer as the experience just gets more enjoyable as you get to know the other volunteers and the staff. The accommodation is relatively basic - there was no Wi-Fi while I was there (not always the case) and the showers aren't consistently warm - but it was extremely social, comfortable and I wouldn't change anything major. The staff in-country are fantastic and there is always someone available to chat to and ask any questions or reports any concerns. I did a Childcare and Urban Farming placements and a member of local staff escorted us on the first day to show us the journey and introduce us to projects staff. I made some great friends in the time I was there, as we spent loads of time together in the house and on the weekend trips. All I can say is the more you put in, the more you get out of your experience. I would definitely recommend this experience if you're willing to be spontaneous and settle into the 'pole pole' lifestyle in Tanzania :) I also think that going in June/July time is perfect as there are always other volunteers around and the weather isn't too hot. It's difficult to describe how it's so enjoyable but it is definitely worth doing through Go Volunteer Africa. Go Volunteer Africa will totally look after you, so go with a totally open mind and you'll have a trip you will not forget.

I've been checking out Go Volunteer Africa for a few years now before I finally decided to take the leap. Simply reflecting back on my time volunteering here in Uganda makes me tear up. I had the most amazing life changing experience I could have ever asked for. I had a genuinely meaningful, fulfilling, and enjoyable time on my first trip. The youth support project is based here in Mukono, east of Kampala the capital and largest city in this nation. I connected well with both fellow international travellers, but the rich local community, too. This was the deepest, most profound educational experience is the hands-on volunteering. The placement was ideal for me, as it allowed me to deploy my love for / experience with young children and enabled me to help the promotion of education for young women from disadvantaged communities. Overall, I developed a deep connection with the country and community, while also diversifying my interactions and experiences with a unique, cosmopolitan group of travellers staying in the hostel. It beyond exceeded my expectations. The support of the Kenyan and Ugandan team had me at ease, the local team is very amazing, and the accommodation and food is incredible. Mukono is an incredible place – the nightlife is wonderful – I will miss it a lot. I can't say enough good things about Go Volunteer Africa and the experience I had volunteering. I can't wait for my next adventure!

I volunteered with Go Volunteer Africa in Uganda for two months and had the most amazing experience of my life (so far). I decided to travel with GVA for personal reasons. I was born in Uganda, adopted by American family and brought up in the States. I wanted to visit my birth country but did not want to go back as just a tourist. While visiting, I wanted to experience the culture and give back if I could. Go Volunteer Africa offered everything I was looking for; cultural immersion, a chance to meet new people and friends, a great place to stay, and opportunities to volunteer. This trip was worth every penny! I met amazing people and went to incredible places. Furthermore, words cannot explain just how amazing the in-country GVA staff is! They were helpful, always a pleasure to be around and became a second family to me. I cannot thank them enough for such an incredible time. Choosing to travel with Go Volunteer Africa was and still is the best decision that I have ever made. I 100% recommend this program! I learned a lot about myself and the world outside my world. I bet you will too! I enjoyed every second of my trip and plan to volunteer with GVA again.