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Volunteer in Women's Education in Kenya logo

Volunteer in Women's Education in Kenya

by: International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

4.6 (5)VerifiedSince 2007

Help empower women from under-resourced communities — especially those affected by HIV/AIDS or facing economic hardship. Volunteers support local women’s centres and community groups offering skills training, support services and educational workshops. Your role might include teaching or assisting with vocational skills such as sewing, tailoring, candle-making or jewellery crafting, running courses on small business management, financial literacy and income generation, and providing mentorship or emotional support to women striving for independence and stability. This project is ideal for open-minded, compassionate volunteers who care about gender equality and community development. You don’t need prior experience — basic English fluency and a willingness to help are enough. Many women in these communities lack access to stable employment, education or resources, so your support can make a real difference to their livelihoods and confidence. Outside project hours you’ll have time to explore Nairobi’s vibrant city life, culture, and natural surroundings while contributing to meaningful social change and women’s empowerment across Kenya.

Program Highlights

Programs start on the 1st and 15th of every month. Duration from 1 to 12 weeks

Includes airport pick up, orientation, accommodation in a homestay, meals, and 24/7 in country support

Volunteer up to 5 hours per day working with women in under resourced communities around Nairobi, including women affected by HIV or those seeking skills to build financial independence

Support skills training such as sewing, tailoring, candle making or jewellery making, assist with small business or financial literacy workshops, offer mentorship or childcare support

Contributes to long term empowerment by helping women gain vocational skills, improve income opportunities, build confidence and strengthen community support networks

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Nairobi, Kenya
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Vacation Packages
Causes:
  • AIDS
  • Education
  • Health
  • Health Care
  • Health Education
  • Public Health
Types:
  • Volunteering
Guidelines:
  • European
  • Canadian
  • American
  • Australian
  • South African
  • Kiwi
  • All Nationalities
  • Asian
See all program details
Last Updated: May 20, 2026

Awards

Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 20252025 Finalist - Innovative Volunteer Abroad ProgramNotable Mention - GoAbroad Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Providers 2024Top Rated Provider 2023 - Volunteer AbroadTop Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022Zero CarbonNotable Mention 2021 - Volunteer Abroad

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.6

Total Reviews

5

Joy comes from connections with people in a meaningful way.

April 16, 2025by: Chenece Blackshear
4

The time we had a power outage and brought some candles inside to have dinner with my host family at my home-stay was my favourite part of the volunteer experience. It was a very joyful experience and such an intimate, family-like moment. My volunteering experience made the most impact on me when I realised that joy does not come from possessions, regardless of how much or how little I have. Joy comes from connections with people in a meaningful way. If someone is hesitant to volunteer abroad, I encourage them to take the positive risk. There's a whole world within worlds that exist, and being able to see the similarities, differences, and complexities is something that every person deserves to embrace.

Be flexible and open-minded.

January 11, 2025by: Julia Lapanja
4

Through volunteering with IVHQ I gained lots of confidence and self-esteem. Also I improved my patience. I was always thankful for the things I had. But I learned to live an easier lifestyle with not much sweets, cold showers, bucket showers, and washing my clothes by hand. So I would advise every newcomer to be flexible and open minded and not at all arrogant or picky. Be open for a new culture.

This is an experience you will remember forever

September 20, 2022by: Kristina Dushkova
5

My favorite moment was the evenings with the women from Women's Education and the discussions about the culture and traditions in Kenya. Also, the activities with the children were the moments when I was recharging my batteries with positive energy. I learned that people can have a simple life and should be grateful for every single thing they have. It made me more understanding, less judgemental, humble, and appreciative. It was the best thing I've ever done for myself and I will probably do it again next year. This is an experience you will remember forever.

The best volunteer travel organization!

February 12, 2020by: Ashley Gullotta - United States
5

The absolute best volunteer travel organization! The programs are responsible, safe, affordable and sustainable. I have volunteered in two counties through IVHQ and cannot wait for my next service trip!

Positive life Kenya

July 10, 2019by: Audrey Runyan - United States
5

These past 2 weeks at Positive Life Kenya has been nothing but an unforgettable experience. Leaving the United States for the first time at age 20, all alone, to come to Kenya was the best adventure yet. I came to Positive Life Kenya with open arms from all the ladies in the office. They taught me a lot about the women and children of Mlolongo and surrounding areas, their culture, and so much more. The memories I have had in Kenya and at Positive Life will be cherished forever. My favorite a part about Positive Life Kenya were the home visits. Seeing the mothers and grandmothers of the surrounding slums and hearing their story was truly impactful. I hope that everyone who volunteers at Positive Life Kenya has as great of an experience as I have because these women didn’t disappoint. To all of the women and children I have met along the way, thank you for making my trip life changing. Hope to come back in the near future!

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] logo
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewJuly 23, 2019

Hi Audrey - I'm so glad you felt supported during your pre-departure experience as well as during your time on the program in Kenya. We would love to have you join IVHQ again in the future and look forward to facilitating another fulfilling volunteer experience for you soon! Kaila - IVHQ Program Manager

Participants with a person with HIV

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Nairobi, Kenya

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Vacation Packages
  • Causes
  • AIDS
  • Education
  • Health
  • Health Care
  • Health Education
  • Public Health
  • Types
  • Volunteering

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • During College
  • During High School
  • Post High School

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Families, Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • In-Country Orientation
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Emergency Support

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

    Application Procedures

    • Online Application

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Women’s Education volunteer program in Kenya?

    This program enables volunteers to assist at centers supporting women affected by HIV/AIDS and their families, helping with education, skills training, and income-generating projects. Outreach into communities and feeding programs in schools may also be part of the work.

    When is the Women’s Education program and how long can I volunteer?

    Start dates are twice each month, and you can choose from 1 to 12 weeks for your volunteer placement.

    • Programs start on the 1st and 15th of every month.
    • Volunteer hours are up to 5 hours per day.

    What tasks will I be doing with the Women’s Education project?

    You’ll work with local staff to empower women, support education, skills training, and community care for families in need.

    • Tasks include assisting with income-generating training, helping women develop financial knowledge, and small business skills.
    • You may assist with community outreach, HIV/AIDS education campaigns and feeding programmes in schools.
    • You will provide companionship, guidance, and possibly childcare for women in the centers.

    What are the accommodation and living conditions for this program?

    You’ll stay with a local host family in a homestay setup approved by the local team, after orientation in Nairobi.

    • Share a bedroom with two to four same-gender volunteers; bedding is provided.
    • Most homestays have electricity, running water, and western-style bathrooms, but there may be power and water shortages.
    • You will spend the night before orientation in temporary volunteer housing near Nairobi airport.

    Who is eligible to volunteer and what are the requirements?

    You must meet age, language and documentation criteria to participate. 

    • Volunteers must be aged 18 or older on the start date (families are also eligible). 
    • All volunteers must speak English and have adequate volunteer travel insurance. 
    • Volunteers aged over 18 at the start date must provide a criminal background check; those aged 16-17 may provide character reference letters instead.
    International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

    International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

    4.6Verified

    Ready to Learn More?

    Help empower women from under-resourced communities — especially those affected by HIV/AIDS or facing economic hardship. Volunteers support local women’s centres and community groups offering skills training, support services and educational workshops. Your role might include teaching or assisting with vocational skills such as sewing, tailoring, candle-making or jewellery crafting, running courses on small business management, financial literacy and income generation, and providing mentorship or emotional support to women striving for independence and stability. This project is ideal for open-minded, compassionate volunteers who care about gender equality and community development. You don’t need prior experience — basic English fluency and a willingness to help are enough. Many women in...

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