Women's Empowerment Project in India

I am retired, and this was an excellent opportunity to spend some time helping Keralan ladies with their English conversation skills. In just 2 weeks I saw them grow in confidence; so much so that they were able to stand in front of the group and explain their business ideas in a short presentation. Ladies in other sessions learned key computer skills, and we put together interactive lessons with schoolgirls to think about how to avoid or overcome stresses associated with exams. We also carried out discussions on issues such as changing gender roles in society with mature students hoping to achieve sufficiently good English test results to obtain work in the UK or Canada. The GVI team were superb - encouraging, supportive and professional. Kochi is in a wonderful location by the sea and spending time on this Project gives volunteers the opportunity to learn about its history, culture, and certainly about its food! Kochi is green, with lots of leafy lanes and coconut palms and there are opportunities at the weekends to further explore Kerala state - perhaps the tea plantations of Munnar or houseboat trips in the 'backwaters'. Come with an open mind and you will be able to offer, and learn, so much.

I had an absolutely amazing experience! From the very outset, I was made to feel right at home. Every staff member of GVI work so hard to make volunteers' experiences as enjoyable as possible. They are very friendly, professional and respectful. Each programme that we deliver for our partners are well-structured, and I myself as a volunteer have been made to feel empowered to deliver lessons on my own. I have received an enormous amount of encouragement and support and couldn't be more grateful for this experience. Thank you!

This project is an eye opening and incredible experience focused on sustainable development and creating an impact that is lasting. India is a vibrant country with a rich and diverse culture, and I can't imagine anywhere better to have spent this experience. I met so many incredible people and learnt so much. I would recommend this project to anyone who is seeking to be pushed out of their comfort zone and to contribute to making a positive impact in the wider world.