Teach at Township Schools in South Africa

We were a group of 20+. The trip was so well organised, from the volunteering activities to the excursions, being able to meet up with local groups. We had a lot of fun. And I know some of our group are planning to go back on individual trips. Brilliant experience.

I loved my time in South Africa. It has taught me so much and I received so much love on this trip. I am very grateful to meet these people and it was one of the most inspirational adventures I’ve been on! Love auntie Sharon and her fiance, the people of SA and all the animals.

I went alone to Knysna, South Africa the summer after my sophomore year (age 16) and had the most remarkable experience of my life. I taught Music and English at Chris Nissen Primary School. Arriving in Knysna was overwhelming at first -- the other volunteers were all much older than me, and there was a lot to learn quickly. However, I received the best orientation I could ask for and after my first week I knew my way around town -- to all the grocery stores, cafes, and spots to eat. I also knew the best/safest taxi services which were very useful! Teaching in the schools was an incredible experience. I taught seven classes of 30+ students, and there was definitely a learning curve. I took initiative and did some really great work -- in my English classes, I read Harry Potter to the students in small pieces and then we broke down vocab words, plot, characters, and setting. In my music classes, I focused on my background, which is choral music. The students and I exchanged pieces that forged our various cultural knowledge -- I, the spirituals and protest music of America's Civil Rights Era, and them, music associated with the Soweto Youth Riots of 1976. On the weekends the other volunteers went on the best excursions, everything from a spa treatment to a day in a wildlife reserve. I saw elephants, rhinos, lions, and monkeys all in 100% natural, free-range habitats up close. Sharon and the school I volunteered at were also could not have been more understanding any time I had any issues. For example, when I arrived I was quite sick, so I stayed home an extra day before volunteering so that I could rest up and get acclimated to the new environment. Toward the end of my stay I got food poisoning (not sure how), which was a nasty 24 hours, but I got vitamin C tablets and rested and was fine the next day. Essentially, while the environment volunteering is rigorous and will get you out of your comfort zone, at no point do you have to worry about doing anything you are not comfortable with. I feel extremely lucky that, at such a young age, I was in such a caring environment on my first ever volunteer trip. I cannot recommend this program enough!

I volunteered on and off for 4 years at a Township School in Knysna, it was the most rewarding, wonderful experience I have ever had. No words can describe the feeling of knowing you have made a difference. Sharon was brilliant as a host and nothing was ever too much trouble and she went out of her way to make sure my stay was memorable. Knysna is such a beautiful place and there is so much to do, you will never be bored. If you want to make a difference, see wonderful things, then book this experience.

Firstly, Sharon is just absolutely fantastic. I can't express how much she believes amd care about what she does. She made the experience so much more meaningful that kn already was with her insight into the impact that I could have on my trip. The schools I was involved in were all based in townships within the area and pupils were fantastic. It was truly wholesome getting the opportunity to teach them something new and learn something in return. The excursions available in the area are immense too. From Whale watching to working in Knysna Elephant park for the day. There is so much to do, 14 days was not long enough! You would be a fool not to consider working with Sharon and the programmes she offers.

I loved my volunteering experience in Knysna. Sharon made the whole process so easy and she was such a great help during my time there. I am so grateful for all the amazing volunteering opportunities and social events during my stay. I was there for one month and my only regret is that I did not stay longer. An experience that I will never forget. Thank you Sharon for everything!

I went to Knysna, South Africa where I taught Soccer and Cricket in disadvantaged communities. This experience provided me with the life skills and tools to be the proud man and father I am today. I made incredible memories and met some amazing people. I can’t speak highly enough of Sharon for facilitating this truly life changing experience. I would happily discuss my experience with anyone thinking of GOing ABROAD.

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I did some sports volunteering at a school in Knysna in 2017 and it was such an amazing experience. From interacting with the students to playing sports with them it was an experience I'll remember for the rest of my life.

I was in Knysna teaching theater about 5 years ago and it’s still one of the most life changing, incredible experiences I’ve had in my life! It was a great mixture of teaching as well as experiencing the culture and beauty of Knysna! The children I taught were so willing to learn and I learned a lot from them as well. I’ve always wanted to go back and hopefully one day I will!

I volunteered in South Africa for 11 weeks and the experience changed my life. It taught me so much and inspired me to choose a career and most importantly I had a wonderful time! The project was a perfect balance of time teaching in the school, volunteering at the township soup kitchen and enjoying myself! I managed to see so much of the area and had a ball on safari and visiting local attractions. The house was a wonderful place to stay and I loved meeting other volunteers from around the world. Sharon was a wonderful support and a good friend. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone wanting to explore the world, give something back and have an unforgettable life experiences.

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