GVI

Jonny once told me that people come on this program for the elephants but stay or return or the people. While I believe he was referring to the villagers and the charm of village life, it's undeniable that the GVI staff, interns, fellow volunteers, and the team from The Elephant Foundation are also integral to the Huay Pakkoot community, making it a place worth revisiting. The elephant hikes were undoubtedly the highlight of the program, but every individual, both on and off base, left a lasting impression and played a significant role in shaping the experience. I would wholeheartedly rate this a 10/10 an adventure that words can't fully capture and must be experienced firsthand to be truly understood.

To say volunteering in Siem Reap is rewarding is an understatement. It is enriching, with the people of Cambodia having an even greater impact on me during my second time here with GVI than on my first! Additionally, not only did the GVI team, hotel staff, tuk tuk drivers look after us all so well, making us feel part of a family from the minute we stepped foot on Cambodian soil, but the accommodation is fantastic too. For anybody, with the heart & the time, it's a must do!

My trip to GVI Karongwe South Africa was amazing. I really did not know what to expect and although the communication with the booking team was not great the Karongwe team made up for it x100! Cornelia is new to the program manager position but you can tell she has a passion for it. She has so many great ideas for the program if she is able to get the resources and support. Cornelia and her team are so friendly and welcoming they made living here feel like home. Kelly, Henry, and Neil were our leaders in the field and they are truly inspiring. Each one of them has their own area of expertise but all three clearly love what they do. Their passion and knowledge help inspire the participants and make everything exciting (even bugs)! Koki was our leader in community outreach. He has a gift for connecting with people that made going into community a special treat. The work he does creating that connection and educating the locals about conservation is so important. And he has fun while doing it! The reserve is beautiful and clearly being run by people who care. I feel so fortunate that I was able to come here and learn from these amazing people and see such a wonderful place.