International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

My volunteer medical placement in Tanzania was an incredibly rewarding experience that contributed significantly to both my personal and professional growth. Working alongside local healthcare professionals in a resource-limited environment challenged me to adapt, think critically, and develop greater confidence in my clinical and communication skills. I gained valuable insight into delivering healthcare with limited resources while maintaining compassion, dignity, and patient-centred care. The placement also enhanced my cultural awareness and understanding. Immersing myself in Tanzanian culture allowed me to appreciate different perspectives, traditions, and approaches to health and wellbeing. Interacting with patients and community members deepened my understanding of the social and cultural factors that influence health outcomes and reinforced the importance of culturally safe care. One of the most memorable aspects of the experience was the connections formed with fellow volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Living and working together created a supportive environment where we shared knowledge, experiences, and challenges. These relationships fostered teamwork, resilience, and mutual respect, while providing opportunities to learn from one another’s professional and personal experiences. Overall, the placement broadened my worldview, strengthened my adaptability and problem-solving abilities, and reinforced my commitment to healthcare. It was a transformative experience that will continue to influence my practice and personal outlook long into the future.

IVHQ are extremely supportive and trustworthy. They provide a very informative program guide and checklist which ensures you have everything you need! They do constant check ins and always provide support. The information shared is very real and it tells you exactly what to expect- there are no surprises! A member of the team collects you from the airport and ensures you are settled in- you also have an orientation day where you get to meet all of the managers and you know exactly who to go to for different enquires! The accommodation & food provided is of very good standard for the price. There is always someone available for help at night. I did my program in Tanzania- I did teaching. It was amazing! I learned so much from it. There was so much to do including the Safari, sunset hike, women’s outreach, waterfall, Moshi weekend, etc. all of these excursions were organised through IVHQ and I felt extremely supported on them all. If you are considering volunteering with IVHQ, do it! Don't hold back- you won’t regret it✨

This was my first trip to Africa. I travelled solo and am over 60. The pre trip communication was excellent with everything covered from travel, visa’s, health and safety, dietary requirements, e sims, insurance, nothing was left out. The accommodation was made up of comfortable single rooms with shared bathrooms and hot showers. The kitchen facilities provided plenty of fridge storage and wonderful accommodating chefs. The pool area overlooks the reserve where you can watch wildlife wander past every day. In the park we got to see Black Rhinos close up without feeling invasive. They gave us permission to photograph them! As did the Giraffe, Zebra, buffalo, Kudo, Crocodiles, Hippos, and even a leopard and painted dogs, and hyena. The bush babies are a bit harder to spot. The work is short and fun but can be strenuous, removing invasive plants (lantana) clearing tracks and scrub for a football pitch at the local school but all very rewarding. Weekends are free time to explore. The gorge at Victoria falls offers zip wires, and swings, horse riding safari in Zambia, and Chobe national park in Botswana to name a few. The Nakavango project is an amazing experience!